Flashing Lights - Chapter 17 (Patreon)

'Another one bites the dust' starts playing in my head as I prepare to post this. Yet another epilogue reached. Another story fallen by the wayside. I'm glad that everyone enjoyed this one. It's definitely one of my favorites for Weiss' personal growth.

I'll post that chapter from Ruby's POV next week and then take a week off for recuperation, then be back with Click, Click, Boom! That will be set in the same universe as Flashing Lights (Flashing Lights is the prequel), so we'll see a bit more of Weiss and Ruby in that one. They aren't the main characters anymore, but we'll still get some great moments. Weiss, in particular, continues to steal every scene she's in.

But this epilogue is all about her, so let's get to it!

***

Weiss buttoned up her light blue blouse, smoothed her hands down her white pleated skirt, and then pursed her lips at the reflection staring back at her.  Unsatisfied, she clasped a delicate silver necklace around her neck before fitting matching silver earrings, each with small rose pendants dangling from them, into her ears.  There were no diamonds or precious stones of any kind, yet the jewelry was priceless since they were gifts from Ruby.

While she slipped into a pair of heels, her gaze flitted to the television currently airing footage from one of the most widely followed trials in Vale’s history.  The ‘breaking news’ banner popped up, stilling her motions as she read the headline: ‘50 years for drug kingpin Charles Marigold.’

Scoffing once, she turned off the television and grabbed her phone.  ‘Good work, shithead,’ she typed, then paused and added a smiling face to ensure the nickname translated without her typical biting sarcasm.  After dropping her phone into her purse, she headed downstairs.

Rather than rush right out the front door, she went to her father’s office.  Despite her confident steps, anticipation and nerves sprang up in her chest.  Nothing a few deep breaths and a hearty knock on the door couldn't cure - though her father’s curt, “Come in,” reminded her to tread carefully.

“Did you see?” she asked once he set down his pen to acknowledge her.

“Fifty years.  He should’ve gotten life, but he’ll die in prison.”

“Couldn’t have happened to a better man,” she drawled, tilting her chin up at Marigold’s well-deserved fate.  Her father’s gaze flitted to the door, a habit he seemed to have recently picked up, before he lowered his voice.

“I’ve already put plans in motion to take over Marigold’s business.  The police dismantled most of the operation, of course, but there’s still plenty for the taking.  And now that your sister’s living with that museum girl, things will be…easier around here.”  

Weiss’ brow furrowed, but the topic led perfectly into what she had come here to talk about.

“On a related note.”  She moved closer but only set her hands on the back of the chair that she usually cowered in.  “There’s something I wanted to discuss with you.”  When he sat back and motioned for her to continue, she took a deep breath and said, “Ruby and I have been together for a while now, and we want to move in together.”

The myriad of logical points that she had prepared in advance pressed to the tip of her tongue, but she waited for his response before launching into a debate.  Surprisingly, he seemed unsurprised by the request.  Instead, he tapped his fingertips together and studied her like a mathematician studying an equation.

“If that’s what you think is best,” he concluded.  She had already smiled before he raised his hand and added, “But I have final say on location.”

“Of course.”  She had expected a stipulation of some kind, so that one was more than agreeable.  “Thank you,” she added before backing out of his office, grinning like a fool as soon as she shut the door.  She practically skipped to the entryway, where Whitley waited for her.

“You look happy.  He said yes?”

“He said yes.”  Without breaking stride or losing her smile, she gave him a quick hug before patting his shoulders.  “You’ll have this whole place to yourself now.”

“Yeah, great…just me…and mom…and dad.”

His somber expression dented her smile, but she set a hand on his arm so that he would look at her.

“Hey, it’s not forever.  Besides, you can always visit.”

“That’s not the same though…”

“I know.  And I’m sorry for falling in love with an incredibly hot cop who rocked my fucking world.  That’s my fault.”  When he finally cracked a smile, she did, too.  “But you know I’ll never leave you behind, right?  This is only temporary.”

The promise finally had an impact - his smile slowly returned.  Before he responded, however, their mom appeared on the balcony above them.

“There you are.”  

After gracefully descending the stairs in a stunning black day dress, she squeezed Whitley’s arm and kissed the top of Weiss’ head.  “Did you talk to him already?” she asked, her light blue eyes searching Weiss’ for good news.

“I did.  He said yes.”  

“Oh, that’s wonderful, sweetie.  I’m so happy for you.”  She wrapped Weiss in a tight hug before pulling back, holding onto Weiss’ arms and beaming at her.  “Look at you…all grown up and ready to start your own life.”

The genuine happiness lifted Weiss’ heart, yet a drop of guilt remained.

“Sure you’re ok with it?” she asked again, but her mom brushed off the concern.

“Of course I am.  I’ve seen the way she treats you - you’re in good hands.  Besides, I want the three of you as far away from here as possible.”  Her eyes darkened when they flashed toward the office, but Whitley dragged the stormy gaze to himself when he tapped her arm.

“We’re only leaving if you’re coming with us!” 

“You want your mom following you around?” she asked with an amused smile.

“Fuck yeah!  Chicks will totally dig that.”

Rather than scold him for the language, she laughed and squeezed his shoulder.  “We’ll see, I guess,” she hummed before clutching her handbag in front of her with both hands.  “I’m off to see that therapist you found for me.  I’ll admit he’s a rather good listener.  And it’s…nice…to have someone to talk to.”

While she ruminated on that recent change in her life, Weiss and Whitley exchanged smiles.  She quickly shook herself out of the moment and added, “I should go, but let’s plan dinner together - maybe this weekend?”  After waiting for their nods, she kissed both of them on the head before leaving.

Weiss and Whitley watched her go, but Whitley sighed first.

“A lot’s changing, but it all feels really…good.”  He paused before turning to her.  “That’s weird, right?”

“It is weird.”  Looking up at him, she smiled and patted his elbow.  “And hey, I was thinking…if we’re lucky, maybe there’ll be an empty apartment across the hall from wherever Ruby and I decide to move.”

“Really??”

His expression lit up so bright that she quickly waved her hands in front of her.

“Or on another floor.  Maybe across the street.  Far enough away that you’re not bugging us all the time -”

“I’ll bug you all the time,” he said at the same time before beaming at her.  “I’m happy for you,” he added.  “And I’m glad you get to be nice Weiss.”

“Me, too.”  She glanced toward their dad’s office before playfully adding, “Tell anyone and I’ll have to kill you.”

“Won’t say a word, I swear.”  

They smiled at each other before she sighed and hugged him again, holding on a little longer this time.  When she pulled away and noticed his shimmering eyes, she immediately held up a finger.  “Don’t you dare cry,” she warned, her heart already clenching.  “I’m not moving yet!  I haven’t even told Ruby we can start looking.”

“Maybe she’ll change her mind.  Then we can get a place together??”

Weiss punched his shoulder while he laughed. 

“Yeah, that’ll never happen,” he added, rubbing his shoulder.  “She loves you way too much.”  The dumbest smile found its way onto Weiss’ lips, but he didn’t tease her about it.  “When are you going to tell her?” he asked instead.

“Right now.”  She glanced at the time on her phone before dropping it back into her bag.  “I’m just meeting Winter first.  She said she needs to talk about something.”

“Is she pregnant?”

“Imagine,” Weiss replied before they both dissolved into laughter.  “See you later, ok?” she eventually added.  “Be good.”

“As good as you,” he replied, so she rolled her eyes but left the house with a smile.

The weather had warmed considerably over the last few weeks, letting her daydream about summer outfits as she walked to her car.  Hopefully, Ruby would start wearing tank tops and shorts soon…Weiss knew Ruby had them - she’d seen them in Ruby’s drawers while searching for things to wear after spending a few too many nights in a row.  Ruby putting so much skin on display would probably be too tempting to resist, but…well, Weiss had never been great at resisting Ruby.

Tearing away from the estate at a steady but not breakneck pace, she turned on the radio and tapped the steering wheel along with some random pop song.  In a stroke of genius - or ill-advised love - Ruby had gifted her a radar detector under the auspices of, “I don’t want you meeting any other cops like you met me.”

That comment earned Ruby a very hearty reward, but Weiss suspected ulterior motives had come into play - such as Ruby not wanting to explain to her coworkers why her girlfriend kept racking up speeding tickets or worrying that Weiss’...attitude…might get someone into trouble.  Weiss wouldn't get into trouble, of course, but someone else might.

She smiled at the thought while turning onto a narrow street with short, squat apartment buildings on each side.  Street parking didn’t exist in this neighborhood - that, or everyone conspired against her whenever she visited - so she parked several blocks away and walked to Winter’s new apartment.  Well, Robyn’s old apartment and Winter’s new apartment. 

The building’s brick facade showed signs of age and the miniscule lobby perpetually smelled like bleach.  The elevator worked though - a surprisingly rare luxury in Vale - so she took it to the fourth floor and, shortly after, knocked on Winter’s door.  Only a few seconds passed before Winter opened it.

“Come in,” she said, motioning Weiss through the doorway and hugging her as soon as she was on the other side.  “Thanks for stopping by.”

“No problem.  I’m on my way to pick up Ruby anyway - Dad just gave me his blessing to move in with her.”

“Really?”  Winter waited for Weiss’ nod before smiling.  “Congratulations.  That’ll be a big change for everyone.”

“Hopefully, a good change,” Weiss said, following Winter further into the modestly sized apartment with modern furnishings yet very little decor.  A bookshelf held several books and other knick knacks but no photographs.  A singular painting hung on one wall - Robyn told Weiss the artist’s story but Weiss had already emptied the information from her brain.  Sunlight streamed through the large, curtainless windows, bathing the space in natural light.

“You should really get some plants or something,” Weiss suggested.  “Or hire an interior decorator - oh, nevermind.  That’s what I’m getting you for your birthday.”

“You don’t have to do that…”

“I know I don’t have to, but it seriously looks like you’re closer to moving out than in.”  Weiss glanced around the barren space before nodding to the young woman sitting at the round dining table.  “Hi, Robyn.  How’re you?”

“About as good as usual.”  Robyn’s gaze slid to Winter before returning to Weiss.  “Thanks for coming.”

The glance struck Weiss as odd.  So did the way Winter slipped into the seat beside Robyn and subtly grabbed her hand beneath the table.

“This shouldn’t take long,” Winter added before nodding to the empty chair across from them.  Weiss’ brow creased as she sat down, studying Winter’s stiff shoulders and the way Robyn silently tapped one finger on the table.

“What’s going on…?”  Weiss glanced at Robyn again before focusing on Winter.  “You aren’t pregnant, are you?”

“What?”  Winter’s eyes briefly widened, but she quickly shook her head and said, “Of course not.  Why would you think that?”

“Because you look really, really stressed.”

“Oh.”  Winter turned to Robyn for support, which Robyn offered with a small, encouraging nod.  Winter still took a deep breath before exhaling and saying, “I’m not pregnant.  I - we - just need to tell you something that you’re probably not expecting.”

“More unexpected than you having a baby?” Weiss joked only to realize the seriousness of the conversation when Winter again glanced at Robyn.

“Yes, it might be.”

“Ok…”  Now that they had her full attention, she leaned back and said, “Well, I’m all ears,” and motioned for Winter to spill.  Her curiosity increased as she watched her older sister, who had always been poised and elegant in her words, struggle to speak.

“I -” Winter began before waving between herself and Robyn.  “We - are trying to…”  She paused and took another deep breath before meeting Weiss’ gaze head-on.  “We’re trying to collect enough evidence against Dad that we can put him in prison,” she spit out all at once.

Weiss stared at them, and they stared at her - neither of them showing a hint of a smile or anything suggesting this was a joke.  “Ok,” she said, chuckling anyway before motioning to Robyn.  “So you and your art curator girlfriend are teaming up to take down Dad like some kind of discount crime-fighting team?”

Again, they glanced at each other - the action was starting to grate Weiss’ nerves - but then Robyn shifted in her seat, cleared her throat, and said, “Actually, I work for the RIA.”   

“The RIA…as in…the Remnant Investigative Agency??  That RIA?  The people in charge of investigating all sorts of serious crimes?”

“Yes.”

“You’re fucking with me.”  She nearly laughed, but her brow shot up when Robyn slid a badge across the table.  She only needed to hear the solid thump and see the sharply cut metal ridges to know it was real.  “Holy shit, Winter,” she breathed out, ignoring the badge to stare at her sister.  “Does Dad know?”

“Of course not.”  When Weiss motioned that she needed much more information, Winter sighed.  “Robyn’s working undercover at the museum.  Everything with Dad…that’s something I decided I want to do, and she’s been helping.”

“Locking him up?”

“He deserves it,” Winter replied, her eyes as certain as her tone.  When Weiss blinked, however, Winter looked down at her hands.  “Weiss…” she began softly, looking up with equally pleading eyes.  “I’m only telling you this because I think you feel the same way.  And…we need your help.”

“My help…” Weiss repeated.  “My help putting Dad in prison.”

“We need your help collecting evidence -”

“How am I supposed to do that without becoming part of what he’s doing?” she pressed.  “Doesn’t that make me just as bad?”

“No.”  Winter firmly shook her head.  “You’ll never be anything like him.  Don’t even think it.”

Weiss used to believe that she was, or she could be, a copy of her father.  These days…she knew better.  Still, she bit her lip and frowned at what her sister was asking of her.

“The RIA will offer you immunity,” Robyn added.  “Nothing you do will be held against you.”

“But…?”

“But we want everything.”

“‘Everything?’”

“The family, Weiss,” Winter explained.  “Contacts, accounts, subsidiaries - everything connected to the Schnee name.”

“And testimonies against your father,” Robyn added.

“Oh, is that all,” Weiss drawled.

“I know we’re asking for a lot.”  Winter reached out as if she might touch Weiss’ hand but stopped and wove her fingers tightly together on top of the table.  “I never wanted you to be involved, but after everything with the Flints and then the Marigolds…”  She paused and sighed.  “He’s cutting me out.”

“Watching Henry lock up his dad for half a century probably scared him shitless,” Weiss pointed out, but Winter just sadly shook her head.

“Whatever the reason…I can’t do this alone anymore.”

Winter’s expression was so steeped in apology, as if this failure physically hurt her, that Weiss wanted to hug her.  She would have if she didn’t feel like she just got sideswiped by a runaway train.

“Fucking hell…” she breathed out, grabbing her phone out of habit only to set it on the table without unlocking it.  “I thought you needed to borrow money or something.”

Winter shook her head and glanced at Robyn one more time before softly adding, “If you need time to think about it…”

“I don’t.”  When Winter’s gaze locked onto hers, Weiss shook her head and tapped the top of her phone.  The screen lit up with a photo that she and Ruby had taken at the zoo several weeks ago, which she smiled at before looking at her sister.  “I’m in.  Tell me what I need to do.”

Winter and Robyn shared a shocked look.  Then a tiny smile picked up Winter’s lips, a small chuckle slipped out, and the tension fell from her shoulders.

“Nothing right now.  Just learn as much as you can.  I’m pretty sure you’re the only one he still…trusts.”

“What a loaded word.”  Weiss rolled her eyes before sitting up taller.  “Wait.  Are you two actually dating or is this just an act?”

She gestured between them and got her answer when Robyn set a hand over Winter’s.

“Ok, I have so many questions.”  Weiss glanced at her phone for the time and decided to save the least important ones for later.  “What about Whitley?”

“I was hoping you could work on him…”  When Weiss arched a brow, Winter sighed.  “We both know he and I don’t see eye-to-eye, but he worships the ground you walk on.  If anyone can get through to him, it’s you.”

“And Mom?”  When Winter and Robyn glanced at each other, Weiss said, “I won’t help if you’re leaving out Mom.” 

They shared a longer look, silently discussing the matter, before Robyn lightly nodded.

“The DA’s office won’t like all of you getting off with nothing more than a slap on the wrist…we’ll need her to testify to make a clear case that she should receive immunity.”

“She’ll testify.”

“Weiss…” Winter sighed, but Weiss nodded.

“She will.  I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but she hasn’t been Dad’s biggest fan ever since he was going to let Henry shoot me.”  When Winter grimaced at the reminder, Weiss turned back to Robyn.  “I’ll get everything you need.  Just…please don’t send them to prison.”

Robyn stared at Weiss for a long time, holding one of Weiss’ biggest fears in the palm of her hand, before nodding.  

“There may be a way we can do this without Mom or Whitley getting involved,” Winter added.  “The safe.”

“The one Marigold wanted?  With the ‘trophies?’”

“Yes.  I’ve been looking for it but haven’t had any luck so far.  If what Henry told you is true and we can find it, and somehow get into it, we’d probably have all the evidence we need.”

“Great,” Weiss scoffed.  “So dive deeper into the family business and do god-knows-what so Dad keeps thinking I’m a soulless psychopath or find a safe that could literally be buried in the sand at the bottom of the cliff for all we know.  This sounds so easy.”

“Undoing decades of crime was never going to be easy,” Winter replied.  “But I think it’ll be worth it.”

Weiss had never considered anything like this before, but she would help her sister do anything.  And…being free of her father’s grasp once and for all sounded like something worth trying for.

“Grandpa would be proud,” she remarked.  Winter finally reached across the table to squeeze her hand.

“He would be.”

After they shared a smile, Weiss blew out a big breath and laughed.

“Any other earth-shattering secrets you need to tell me?”  Once they both shook their heads, she stood up and said, “Good.  Because I should get going - I hate making Ruby wait.”

Winter and Robyn both nodded and followed Weiss to the door, which she opened for herself before hugging her sister.  “Thanks for trusting me,” she whispered before pulling away, noting the spark of joy in Winter’s eyes.  She nearly left but paused when a thought niggled at the back of her mind.  Turning around, she squinted at Robyn for several seconds before her eyes widened.

“You told the cops.  The Flint deal.  You tipped them off.”

“Yes,” Winter admitted.  Robyn had the decency to look sheepish.  “The plan was to arrest Wayne Flint immediately after the deal.  But when you found out, we pulled the plug to make sure we didn’t raise suspicions.”

Weiss opened her mouth but didn’t have a response to that revelation.  In trying to protect Winter from being arrested or hurt when the police showed up, she nearly destroyed her relationship with Ruby.  Ultimately, that moment had only strengthened their bond, so she simply nodded before stepping into the hall. 

“Let me know when you need me,” she told Winter before dipping her chin to Robyn and walking away.  She hardly made it halfway to the elevator, however, before hearing footsteps behind her.

“Weiss?” Robyn called out, prompting Weiss to turn around.  “If you tell Ruby…can you ask her to stop grilling me about art around your family?  I’ve been trying really hard not to blow my cover.”

Having learned the truth about Robyn’s identity, Weiss could only beam at Ruby’s vastly superior art knowledge.

“I suppose I can…but only if you answer something for me.”  While Robyn willingly waited, Weiss lowered her voice and asked, “You and Winter fuck, right?”

Robyn’s brow rose, her jaw dropped, and a soft blush rushed onto her cheeks, but she quickly cleared her throat and collected herself.  A small smirk even slipped onto her lips as she leaned closer and replied in an equally quiet voice, “She has to unwind somehow, doesn’t she?”

The confirmation was somehow better than Weiss ever imagined it.  She started laughing, noticing the mirthful sparkle in Robyn’s eyes, and tapped the button for the elevator.

“I like you, Robyn.  I’m glad you aren’t a boring art curator.”

When Robyn smiled, Weiss stepped into the arriving elevator and waved goodbye.  Once the doors closed, she took a deep breath and pulled out her phone.  So much had just happened that she wanted to call Ruby and spill everything, but she dropped her phone back into her bag and hurried out of the building instead.  She would see Ruby soon, and all of this was better delivered in person.

Her mind still buzzed as she drove to the downtown police station.  Ruby would use today as more proof that Weiss was a magnet for drama, but she had stopped legitimately arguing against that theory months ago.  She parked in the lot reserved for officers instead - a silent dare for any of them to try to tow her car - and strode into the station with her head held high.  After catching the receptionist’s attention, she motioned to the glass doors leading into the main officer’s area.  The young girl buzzed her in without a fuss.  

No burst of ruffled brunette hair caught her eye, but glaringly bright blonde did.  Yang noticed her at almost the same time and smirked as she stalked over.

“You bitch,” were the first words out of Weiss’ mouth, followed by a smile when Yang laughed.  Yang had a loud yet endearing laugh that had grown on Weiss over time.  Best of all, her lilac eyes sparkled just like Ruby’s.

“Sore loser,” she teased.

“You cheated.”

“How?”

“I don’t know!”  Weiss threw her hands up before jabbing a finger at the police badge on Yang’s hip.  “You probably flashed your badge at one of the players and told them to fake an injury.”

“Or you just suck at this.”

Weiss clenched her teeth and flashed a salty smile in response to Yang’s grin.  “Well, whatever,” she griped, fishing some bills from her purse and shoving them into Yang’s metal palm.  “Next time I’m calling the players’ moms.”

“I’m sure they’ll love that.”  

Weiss’ snappy comeback died at the tip of her tongue when Ruby appeared.  Wearing a navy t-shirt with that golden ‘SWAT’ logo across the front and sleeves that clung to her toned arms, a pair of black cargo pants that hugged her ass in the most alluring way, with her weapon holstered at her hip and her badge proudly displayed beside it, Ruby looked like she belonged on one of the risque calendars the department sold to raise money.  If she ever seriously participated in one of those though, Weiss would buy every damn copy just to prevent anyone else from seeing.

Ruby’s eyes easily found Weiss.  A smile soon followed as she casually waved to the young woman who she had been speaking to and navigated through the maze of desks.  Weiss’ heart hummed in anticipation of Ruby’s arrival and broke into song when Ruby met her with a short yet loving kiss.

“Hey gorgeous,” Ruby said, smiling just for her before turning to Yang.  Her arm snuck around Weiss’ waist though, gently tugging their hips together.  “What’re you two chatting about?”

“How little Weiss knows about sports.”

“Or how much Yang cheats when money’s on the line,” Weiss huffed.  The response lacked any real bite, however, which Ruby noticed and pointed out to Weiss via a soft kiss on the cheek.  Bickering with anyone would be impossible after the sweet gesture, so Weiss leaned into Ruby’s side and changed the subject.

“I heard you’re being promoted,” she directed to Yang, who promptly beamed.  “Congratulations.”

“Thanks.  ‘Bout time I left patrol.  It’s been boring since Ruby left.”

“I didn’t go anywhere.  I just work in a different department -”

“SWAT might as well be a different planet.”

“Like detective isn’t?” Ruby teased, but Yang rolled her eyes before growing serious.  Her eyes always gave her away - switching from teasing to caring in different shades of purple.

“Hey, I heard Marigold only got fifty years.”

“Yang…” Ruby warned, but Yang shook her head.

“It’s bullshit, Ruby.  Everyone knows he’s guilty as sin - he should’ve gotten life.  Good behavior and he could be out in half that.”

“And we’ll deal with that if it happens,” Ruby replied firmly, her grip on Weiss’ waist tightening.

“And Henry did his best,” Weiss added after glancing between the two sisters.  “It’s not like our parents hand us folders detailing everything they’ve done.  I’m impressed he knew as much as he did.”

“Yeah, I guess…” Yang muttered.  Her vague irritation - on Weiss’ behalf, no less - made Weiss smile rather than dwell on Charles Marigold and how much time he should have served.  Honestly, his sentence meant nothing compared to how close she and Yang had grown by spending hours mutually maligning one of Vale’s biggest assholes.

“I guess that’s a problem for twenty-five years from now,” Yang added, patting her leg and smirking at Weiss.  “Maybe you and Ruby won’t even be together anymore.”

“Why wouldn't we still be together?”

“Because you’re, you know, difficult.”

Yang said it like a dirty word and was grinning by the time Weiss spooled up a retort.  The retort died again, much to Yang’s amusement, when Ruby squeezed her side and said, “Weiss isn’t difficult!”

That must be a lie, yet Ruby spoke as truthfully as ever.  So Weiss smirked at Yang before kissing Ruby’s cheek.  “Thank you, Ruby,” she added while Yang rolled her eyes.

“You guys are sickening sometimes.”

“Maybe you should get yourself a girlfriend instead of worrying about us.”

Weiss batted her eyes when Yang’s jaw dropped.

“I - I literally went on a date last night -”

“And?”

“‘And?’”  Yang sputtered for a moment, glancing at Ruby for support only to grab her phone.  “And I gotta go.”  Despite the obvious attempt to escape embarrassment, she still smiled when Weiss laughed.  “Next week?” she asked, pointing the folded bills at Weiss.  Once Weiss nodded, she grinned and grabbed her jacket from the back of her chair.  “Can’t wait to take more of your money, Schnee.”

“Keep dreaming, Xiao Long.”

Yang patted Ruby’s shoulder before swinging on the jacket and heading out.  Weiss pursed her lips while watching Yang go, wondering when she would get to pry out more details about that date.

“I’m glad you and Yang get along now.”  Ruby’s comment drew Weiss away from those thoughts.  Her heart skipped a beat at the way Ruby was smiling at her.  “I’m surprised you aren’t more upset about losing though.”

“Because I let her win.”

As expected, Ruby started laughing.  “Yeah, right,” she said, silver eyes sparkling.  “I’m not falling for that.  You’re the most competitive person I’ve ever met.  No way you let someone win anything.”

That was true in so many cases before Weiss met Ruby - and many cases after she met Ruby.  Today, she set a hand on Ruby’s cheek, looked into Ruby’s eyes, and said, “I’m telling the truth.”

Ruby’s laughter stopped and surprise filled happy silver.

“But…why?”

“Because.”  Weiss briefly considered leaving the response at that but sighed when Ruby squeezed her hand.  “Because the department pays you like shit,” she admitted.  “And she’d never take my money otherwise.  This way, we both have some fun and she walks away with an extra few hundred bucks to spend on hair products or whatever the hell she spends money on.”

Before she could feel embarrassed about her stupid idea, Ruby kissed her cheek.

“You’re the most competitive person I know, but you’re also the sweetest.”

“That’s definitely -”

Ruby pressed a finger to Weiss’ lips and added a simple, “- true.”

There was no arguing with those eyes or that smile or the overwhelming sincerity.  A smile slipped onto Weiss’ lips instead, and she was leaning in to share it with Ruby when she spotted the Chief of Police striding over to them.  Chief Fowler looked more gray and disheveled than Weiss remembered, but the woman still had a well-practiced, flattering smile.

“Miss Schnee.  Lovely to see you, as always.”

When Ruby silently tried to put some space between them, Weiss flashed a polite smile and said, “You, too.  Sorry for stopping by unannounced.  I’m just here to see your best officer.”  She then wove her arm through Ruby’s and tugged Ruby closer.

“Ruby is one of our brightest,” Chief Fowler agreed before dipping her chin to Ruby and saying, “Your parents would be very proud.”  Weiss scowled at what sounded like false praise but refound her smile just as Chief Fowler turned back to her.  “I was wondering if your father’s mentioned anything about next year’s campaign?”

Of course Chief Fowler wanted to discuss that.  She was lucky that Weiss was in a good mood, but even good moods could evaporate when her father was involved.

“Not yet.  He’s been preoccupied with the Marigold trial…you know, the man who tried to kill us.”

The reminder soured the woman’s expression but also prompted Ruby’s arm to snake back around her waist - a double win in Weiss’ book.

“I gave the prosecutor a list of additional charges that should’ve been added,” Chief Fowler huffed.  “We could’ve gotten a longer sentence, but he wouldn't budge.”

“I understand.”  Weiss understood that nothing would ever be this woman’s fault, but she still had about five seconds of playing nice left in her.  “And I’m sure my dad will start thinking about your campaign once he’s ready.  Vale P.D. is still a pillar of the city, after all.”

“That it is.”  Puffing up, Chief Fowler mustered a slightly more relaxed smile and bow of her head.  “Sorry to take up your time - let me know if you need anything.”

“Don’t worry.  We will.”

Weiss flashed another smile and masked her eyeroll as the woman retreated to her office - for more campaign strategy sessions, most likely.  

“Sorry, I forgot to tell you she was here.  I know how much you love politics.”

“I love it so much.”  

While Ruby chuckled, Weiss sighed and leaned her forehead against Ruby’s chest.  That prompted Ruby to rub her back, quickly erasing any annoyance at being solicited for money when she was only here to see her girlfriend.

“You know, some of the other officers are jealous,” Ruby admitted.  “They say I get preferential treatment because of you.”

“Then they should suck up more.  She clearly enjoys it.”

“I doubt any of them have a few million lying around to throw at her campaign.”

“‘A few million?’” Weiss repeated before looking up and smiling at Ruby.  “Cute.  But buying a police chief costs at least ten these days.”

“You gave ten million dollars to her campaign?”

“I didn’t give her a dime.”  Ruby waved off the clarification, so Weiss shrugged.  “And yes.  That was last time though.  Considering all of the…police services…we’ve needed recently, I’m guessing the amount has gone up.”

Weiss pursed her lips, imagining how a conversation like that even went.  Was it a negotiation or did Chief Fowler simply name her price?  As soon as Ruby squeezed her hands, however, she took one look at caring silver eyes and sighed.

“You’re going to ask me to do something I don’t want to do...”

“Maybe you can dial it back a couple notches?” Ruby asked anyway, so Weiss sighed again.  “I actually like my coworkers, you know.  Most of them, at least.  I don’t want them to hate me.”

“It’s not my fault your boss wants to kiss my ass so bad she’s practically crawling behind me on her hands and knees.”  When Ruby just patiently smiled, Weiss heaved an even bigger sigh and said, “Fine.  Only because I love you.”

“And I love you,” Ruby replied, kissing the tip of Weiss’ nose before hopping up onto Yang’s desk and nonchalantly wrapping her feet around Weiss’ legs.  “How was your day?”

The question snapped Weiss’ roaming thoughts from their current positioning back to Winter and Robyn’s apartment.  Her eyes flitted around the busy precinct before divulging that news and, in the absence of privacy, rewound to the most important news she had to share.

“My day was great, actually.”

“‘Great?’” Ruby repeated, her brow rising when Weiss nodded.  “Wow.  Something monumental must’ve happened for you to call it great.  Did you finally get that barista fired?  The one who keeps misspelling your name?”

“No.”  Weiss scowled just thinking about the insolent young man.  “He’s on my list though.”

“He’s flirting with you, you know.”

“Why would he flirt with me?” she asked, throwing her arms in the air.  “You literally had your tongue down my throat when he was calling my name to pick up my drink, and you carry a gun.”

“Maybe he likes danger.”

“He’ll get danger if he spells my name wrong again…” Weiss grumbled.  Ruby’s soft laughter brought her back to the important news though.  “But no, he’s still alive and well.  My day was great because I got great news for us.”

She motioned between them, and Ruby responded by pulling her closer.  “What great news is that?” Ruby asked while playing with Weiss’ hands.

“You remember how we talked about moving in together?”

“You mean this morning when you complained that my closet’s too small for all your clothes?  How could I forget?”

“Well…I asked my dad if he’d be ok with it, and he said yes.”

“You - he - really?”  Once Weiss nodded, Ruby brightened like the sun and stood up to kiss Weiss on the lips.  “You want to live together?”

“Of course I do.  Why else would I say, ‘When we live together we need a bigger closet?’”

“Sometimes you just like complaining!”  Laughing now, Ruby kissed Weiss again - longer this time, and far more satisfyingly.  After pulling away, she rested her forehead on Weiss’ and said, “You’re right though - that’s awesome news.”

“There’s just one caveat,” Weiss added before she forgot.  “He has to approve of wherever we choose, so most likely it’ll have to be one of my family’s properties.”

“You mean one of those swanky apartment buildings in all the best neighborhoods with all the best restaurants and gyms and shopping?”

“Yes.  Horrible options, I know.”  

As soon as Ruby laughed, Weiss smiled and brushed her fingers through Ruby’s hair.

“I hope they have some tiny places because I bet that’s all I can afford,” Ruby added.

“You think I’m letting you pay to live somewhere where my dad chooses the doorman?”  When Ruby scrunched up her nose, Weiss shook her head.  “Hell no.  Besides, I’m getting my own closet.”

“Oh you are, are you?”

“And a jacuzzi bathtub,” she added, lightly tracing her fingers along the scar on Ruby’s upper arm.  

“Is that all?”

Weiss stopped herself mid-nod and cringed.  

“I might have suggested that Whitley can live across the hall if my dad lets him…”

Weiss was unsure about that part, but she relaxed when Ruby laughed.

“That’d be awesome.  Then he can come over for game nights!”

“Ugh.”  With Ruby grinning now, Weiss rolled her eyes.  “Nevermind.  I forgot you’re both huge dorks.”

“Huge dorks that you love,” Ruby teased while nuzzling Weiss’ cheek.  Weiss playfully grumbled, but her fluttering heart suggested that she loved them both far more than she could ever describe.  

“Sure you’re ok with it?” she asked before Ruby overwhelmed her heart with cuteness.  “You’d have to move, too…”

“I don’t mind moving!  I especially don’t mind moving if it means I get to live with you.”

When Ruby nuzzled Weiss’ nose this time, Weiss slid her hand behind Ruby’s neck and dragged her into a kiss.  Weiss’ lips muffled Ruby’s soft squeak, and she slipped her tongue into Ruby’s mouth well before Ruby likely considered it.  After another startled noise, Ruby nearly faded into the kiss - Weiss could practically feel Ruby’s self-control whittling away.  Then someone whistled and Ruby jumped backward.

“You go, Ruby!” the officer called out, flashing a thumbs up while his partner laughed.

“Jackass…” Weiss muttered under her breath, flustered and annoyed that the kiss led nowhere.  Ruby, however, blushed so furiously that it made up for the unquenched desire.

“I guess we should leave before we cause a scene,” Weiss suggested.

“Another scene,” Ruby corrected while taking Weiss’ hand and leading them to the exit.  “People still won’t let me forget the last time.”

“You having your hand up my skirt is hardly a scene.  That’s just…Tuesday.”

Ruby’s laughter had Weiss smiling again as they left the police department hand-in-hand.  They only separated when they reached her car, and only then because sitting in someone’s lap while they drove was against the law - she had asked.  So they sat in their own seats like normal, law-abiding citizens, but she made sure to rev the engine a little loudly before tearing away from the station.  It earned Ruby’s headshake, as usual, but a small smile, too.

Anticipation snuck into her veins as she drove fast but not too fast through Vale.  Ruby got antsy at a certain speed, and Weiss often found it nicer to enjoy their conversation than drag race to their destination - even though she couldn't wait to get to this particular destination.

“Want to go back to the kitchen this weekend?” Ruby asked, oblivious to Weiss’ current thoughts.

“Depends.  Will Rebecca be there?”

“She doesn’t usually work on the weekend.  Why?  You don’t like Rebecca?”

“She’s fine.  She just looks at me like I’m such a good person.”

Weiss scrunched up her face at the non-profit director’s behavior, but Ruby laughed.

“Last time we were there, she mentioned they needed a new oven so you handed her your five thousand dollar purse and told her to sell it to get one.”

“Yeah, that was impulsive…” Weiss muttered, flipping on the turn signal mid-turn.  “I liked that bag, too.”

“I can buy you a new one in approximately eight years.”

“Don’t waste your money; I have others.  And now I make sure I always have checks or plenty of cash with me.”

Ruby chuckled again, but she frowned when she finally noticed the intersection.

“Uh, where are we going?  My apartment’s that way.”  

Ruby pointed to the right while Weiss took the next left.

“I know.  There’s something I want to show you.”

“A surprise?”

“I guess you could say that…”

Ruby’s attention perked up as they drove the last few blocks to a small shopping center.

“Wait.”  When Ruby suddenly sat forward, hands on the dash as she stared out the windshield, Weiss smiled.  “Is that -?” Ruby asked as they entered the parking lot.  “Are you serious??”

By the time they stopped in front of a storefront sandwiched between two cute restaurants, Ruby was practically bouncing in her seat and Weiss was trying not to feel like she just worked a miracle.  The engine hardly shut off before Ruby flew out of the car and ran around to open Weiss’ door.

“This isn’t real, is it?” she asked, taking Weiss’ hand to both help her out and lead her toward the storefront under construction.  The sign had been hung though - blocky, teal-blue letters spelling out ‘Shell’s Bakery.’

“Surprise,” Weiss said while Ruby stared at the nearly completed store.

“You did this?”

“Of course not.”  Weiss scoffed, but her heart swooned when Ruby turned around and set both hands on her hips.  “I’ve never used a hammer,” Weiss quipped.  “I hired more capable workers to do the work.”

“You did this,” Ruby stated this time.  She spun back to the little store and waved when a young woman emerged from the backroom and hurried to the front door.  After unlocking the door and grabbing a box from one of the few tables, she met them outside with a big smile.

“Shelly!” Ruby greeted her like a close friend.  “I can’t believe this!”  Ruby extended both arms toward the store-in-progress, which Shelly glanced back at before beaming.

“It’s coming along,” she said before offering the box to Ruby.  “These are for you.”

“You didn’t have to -”  Ruby peeked into the box, gasped, and clutched it close to her chest.  “Oh my god.  Have I told you how much I love you?”

“Not in front of me, you haven’t,” Weiss replied, playfully arching her brow at Ruby. 

“Well I love you so much!” Ruby told Shelly before kissing Weiss’ cheek.  “And I can’t even describe how much I love you.”

“You could try…” Weiss mumbled, her heart skipping a beat when Ruby laughed and gestured to the work that had been completed so far.

“This looks awesome!  Are you excited?”

“Very.”  Shelly beamed at both of them, radiating happiness.  “We should be able to open next month if there aren’t any delays.” 

“Give me a date and we’ll be first in line.”  

“You’ll be one of the first to know, promise.”

Shelly smiled at Ruby, who must be her biggest and most vocal supporter outside of her family, before turning that appreciative smile to Weiss.

“We won’t keep you,” Weiss quickly said, motioning to the construction going on inside the store as her free hand seamlessly reconnected with Ruby’s.  “I just couldn't keep it a secret anymore.”

“You’re always welcome to stop by.  I mean - of course you are.  I just meant…you’re both welcome here whenever.  Really.”

Shelly glanced between them, eyes hopeful that they understood the sentiment.  Ruby’s bright smile should have been more than enough of an answer, especially combined with her pointing at the sidewalk just outside the front door.  “That’s my spot,” Ruby claimed while backing away.  “I’ll bring a tent and everything.”

Weiss rolled her eyes at the idea of camping on the sidewalk but said, “We’ll catch up later,” to Shelly.  Shelly nodded and returned to the store, diving back into work with the determination that should make her successful.  Ruby, meanwhile, beamed at Weiss for several long seconds before heading back to the car.

Even though Ruby didn’t say anything as they left the parking lot, she smiled at Weiss rather than watch the buildings pass.  The unflinchingly adoring gaze soon had Weiss fidgeting in her seat, then clearing her throat, before finally saying, “Stop looking at me like that.”

“How am I looking at you?” 

“Like I’m - you know.”

“Like you’re a good person.”

“I have a reputation to uphold…” Weiss sighed, speeding through a long yellow light as if that proved her point.

“How could I forget?  Big, bad Weiss Schnee…just walking around casually making people’s dreams come true.”

“It’s an investment,” she insisted while Ruby laughed.  “And with how many cookies you eat, I’ll save money in the long run.”

“Right, right.  Changing Shelly’s life had nothing to do with it.”

“Nothing at all.”

Weiss focused on the road, but Ruby kept smiling at her, and she eventually smiled, too.  “Shut up,” she said as soon as she realized what happened.  Ruby laughed but then mimed zipping her lips and remained silent for the rest of the drive.  She would absolutely bring it up later, but for now…she let Weiss rebuild defenses before launching another offensive.

That was part of what made Ruby perfect - she knew when to press and when to let Weiss process.  Weiss rewarded her for the patience with a light kiss once they parked, and another one as they joined hands to head upstairs.  As soon as they reached Ruby’s apartment, however, Weiss took a deep breath and released it with a sigh.

“I’ll miss this place though...” 

“With its tiny ceilings and tiny kitchen and tiny shower and broken elevator?”

“The elevator thing really pisses me off, but everything else…”  Weiss spun in a slow circle, soaking in the space that felt very much like her own.  “Smaller just means…cozier.”

“And less to clean,” Ruby pointed out, wrapping her arms around Weiss’ waist.  “But now we can go apartment hunting together.  Check out different neighborhoods…argue over paint colors…insult some crowd moldings…”

“Crown,” Weiss corrected, laughing now.  “They’re called crown moldings.  God, you’re so fucking cute.”

Ruby blinked - either at being wrong or at being called cute for being wrong - before letting it go with a relaxed smile.  The way her fingers grasped the small of Weiss’ back was starting to send tingles down Weiss’ spine.  When Weiss rested her hands on Ruby’s chest, however, Ruby glanced down at them before backing away and picking up one in Weiss’ hands.

“New?” she asked, rubbing a thumb across Weiss’ fingernails.

“Ilia says ‘hi,” Weiss replied, loving that Ruby had noticed at all.  “She also said she found a new job.  Some little group that’s going to make the world a better place or something.”

“Good for her!”

“And bad for me.  Do you have any idea how hard it is to find a decent manicurist?”

“I’m sure you’ll survive.”

Weiss would have had a comeback to that, but she forgot all about it when Ruby pressed a tender kiss to her nails.  “Maybe Winter knows someone…” she mused only to be surprised when Ruby’s gaze snapped back to hers.

“That reminds me.”  With Weiss now thoroughly confused, Ruby guided her over to the sofa and prompted her to sit down.  “So, I might’ve, kind of, did a little digging on Robyn.”

Weiss’ brow rose, but Ruby hurriedly added, “I know she’s dating your sister so that’s maybe, like, crossing the line, but something about her just bugs me.”

Before Ruby looked too guilty about being adorably protective, Weiss squeezed her hand and said, “What did you learn?”

“Nothing definite yet.”  Ruby blew out a big breath.  “I checked with the museum though - she’s listed as an employee, but her title’s weird.  She’s the ‘Impressionist Curator,’ but there’s also a ‘Chief Impressionist Curator.’  I asked them what the difference is and they gave me some hand-wavey answer.  Then I talked to the Chief Curator guy, and he actually knows his stuff.  Well, he at least knows what’s on exhibit.”

Weiss could hardly contain a smile at Ruby’s mini-investigation.

“So in your expert opinion…?” 

Ruby sighed again before sending Weiss a mournful gaze.

“I’m pretty sure she’s lying to your sister.  She probably doesn’t work at the museum, but the fact that they’re covering for her means…she works for something bigger, and she might be after your sister for something.”

Ruby probably expected shock or concern on Winter’s behalf, yet all she got was a kiss on the lips.

“You’re so smart,” Weiss cooed while pressing kisses all over Ruby’s cheeks and jaw next.

“Uh, what?”

Finally backing away, Weiss smiled at Ruby’s adorably miffed expression.

“I appreciate you looking after my sister.  That’s very sweet of you.”  Weiss kissed Ruby’s cheek again before getting to the life-changing secrets.  “And Robyn works for the RIA.  Art curator is her cover.”

Ruby’s mouth opened in a perfect ‘o,’ and then her eyes widened even further.  

“That’s where I know her from!  I must’ve seen her when they were recruiting me!”

“They recruited you?”

“Yeah, but I told them no.  I’d have to go undercover and, like, not see my family for years at a time.”

“Oh, you can’t do that.”

“Right.  And now I have you, so…I have even more reason not to.”

When Ruby squeezed Weiss’ hands, Weiss nearly got so lost in Ruby’s captivating gaze that she forgot to mention the rest of her conversation with Winter and Robyn.

“Oh.  And they’re trying to put my dad in prison and want my help.”

“What??” Ruby yelped.  “But that’s so dangerous and -”

“I already said yes.”

“And of course I’m helping,” Ruby concluded with a resolute nod.  “Just tell me what you need.”

“I’m not dragging you into this.”

“You’re not.  I’m jumping into it with you.”  

Weiss opened her mouth to protest, but Ruby squeezed her hand and nodded again.  The typical humor and mirth had left her silver eyes, replaced by the steadfast determination that Weiss associated with ‘Officer Rose.’  Officer Rose wasn’t to be trifled with.  Officer Rose was skilled, no-nonsense, and extremely attractive.

On any other occasion, Weiss would be proposing that they pick up the conversation tomorrow morning.  In this specific situation, however, she lightly touched Ruby’s cheek and waited for her Ruby to return.

“This means I might have to be more…involved…in what he’s doing,” she admitted, but Ruby kissed her forehead.

“I won’t love you any less.”  As if the relieving answer wasn’t good enough, Ruby added, “If possible, I love you even more.”

Weiss hadn’t thought it was possible to love Ruby more than she already did, but her fluttering heart suggested it wasn’t opposed to trying.  She kissed Ruby instead, melting into the feeling of Ruby’s lips and Ruby’s warmth as they melded together on the sofa.  The kiss might have ended too soon, but they remained intertwined, with Ruby gently playing with Weiss’ hair while Weiss rested her head on Ruby’s chest.

“I guess I could start thinking about what I want to do…after, I mean.  My dad won’t let me have a regular job, but if he’s out of the picture…I’ll need to do something.”

“You could work for the department.”

Weiss’ laughter trailed off when Ruby remained silent.  She craned her neck to look up at Ruby instead.

“You’re serious?  Ruby, they would never even consider hiring me.”

“Why not?  You’re cold as ice under the most stressful situations and a decent shot.  You’d make a great officer.”

“You mean I’m an excellent shot,” she huffed before giving the suggestion more consideration.  “That would be the ultimate betrayal…” she mused.  “Get him arrested and then join the police?  He’d probably have a stroke.”

“It’s not about him though.  It’s about you and what you want to do.”  

When Ruby squeezed Weiss’ shoulder, Weiss buried a small smile into Ruby’s shirt.  Good thing Ruby couldn't hear her heart right now because that little comment had sent it into an unexpected tizzy.

What she wanted to do?  She’d never considered the question before - at least, not seriously.  Her father always told her what to do, but if he was no longer controlling her life…she could do anything she wanted.  The thought was daunting but, knowing that she would have Ruby’s support, equally exciting.

“That could still be years away though,” she added, mostly to herself, before sitting up and smirking at Ruby.  “We should have another rematch in the range before I move.  I know I can beat you now.”

“Oh, yeah?”  Ruby leaned tantalizingly close to Weiss’ lips but grinned rather than kiss her.  “Where’s this misplaced confidence coming from?”

“‘Misplaced?’  Excuse you.  I’ve been practicing and you’ve been too busy breaking down doors to keep up your shot.”

“Ok then,” Ruby said, laughing now.  “What’re we betting this time?  Your car?”

“Why does everyone want my car?” Weiss sighed.  “You can have it if you want it.  I only need you.”

Ruby abruptly froze, her smile stuck somewhere between shocked and disbelieving.  Then she blinked.  Then she beamed brighter than Weiss could ever remember seeing.

“Wow.  That was really romantic.”

“Really?”

“Yes.”  

Ruby pecked Weiss on the lips and then beamed at her some more.

“Well, that’s easy,” Weiss huffed, flipping her hair over her shoulder.  “You can have anything of mine.  It’s all just stuff.  It can be replaced.  I can’t replace you.”

“Ok, stop before my heart explodes,” Ruby groaned, clutching her chest before wrapping both arms around Weiss’ waist and pulling Weiss on top of her.  Once they were lying on the sofa together, Ruby hugged Weiss close and smiled up at her.

“Will you miss living at home?” Ruby asked, seemingly oblivious to the effect all of the bodily contact was having on Weiss’ desires.

“Not really.”  Weiss tried to focus on anything other than Ruby’s chest pressed against hers, but her hands inched down Ruby’s sides.  “It’s already been weird since Winter moved out…I’ll miss Whitley though.  And my mom sometimes.”

“They can come over whenever they want.”  

Ruby kissed Weiss with the soft promise, so Weiss hummed.

“And I’ll miss having my own shooting range in the backyard.”

“I’ll take you to the academy range whenever you want.  They have sniper rifles.”  Ruby kissed Weiss again before frowning.  “I don’t think you’re allowed to use those though…”

“I’m sure I can convince them to let me.”  Weiss smirked and kissed Ruby this time, noticing that Ruby’s hands had begun sliding further down her back.  “I’ll miss having a gym down the hall,” she offered as her focus split between the conversation and the location of Ruby’s hands.

“You can come workout with me.”

Weiss hummed at the pleasant thought even though she doubted that she would get much done other than ogling Ruby.

“You know one thing I’m not going to miss?” she asked before kissing Ruby a little harder this time, stealing Ruby’s breath before pulling away and smiling down at her.  “Missing you.”

As the most adoring smile spread across Ruby’s lips, Weiss’ heart responded with a mini celebration of its own.  Then Ruby grabbed her ass and the rest of her body jolted with a different kind of celebration.

“Who knew you could be romantic…” Ruby mused, still grinning like mad while Weiss leaned down to kiss her.  “You know,” Ruby added between kisses, for some reason delaying the inevitable.  “I think you’re the best reckless driver I’ve ever arrested.”

In a flash, Weiss pulled back and scoffed.

“First of all, you didn’t arrest me - you put me in handcuffs and drove me to the station.  Second of all, it was speeding not reckless driving.”

“Oh, believe me, I was going to add reckless driving.  And failure to yield.  Even child endangerment for the way you blew by that minivan, which I’m sure had a kid or two inside.”

“You really wanted me to go to jail?”

“No, I just…wanted to ruin your night a little - for being so beautiful and mouthy.”

As a sneaky smile slid onto Ruby’s lips, Weiss rolled her eyes and melted into Ruby’s embrace, capturing Ruby’s lips with her own and quickly deepening the kiss so Ruby understood that now wasn’t the time for talking.  Now was the time to celebrate everything they had conquered to make it here and all of the triumphs still ahead.  They might joke about the charges and punishment Weiss avoided, but that fateful night changed the direction of her life.  It ruined her life.  It ruined her.

Ruby ruined her.  At least, her father would think so on the day he realized that she wasn’t who she used to be.  Who he raised her to be.  Who he told her to be. 

In truth, Ruby saved her.  Ruby helped her reclaim pieces of herself that she thought she lost long ago.  Ruby showed her that she still had a choice.  She could be a badass bitch, as Whitley so accurately described her, but she could also be…kind…every once in a while.  Thoughtful, sometimes.  Maybe even a little generous.  

Most importantly, she could follow the stupid, irrational organ beating in her chest.  It led her to Ruby, after all, and Ruby…well, Ruby would have been worth the reckless driving charge.  Had anyone been able to make it stick, of course...