Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

"This is impossible. There’s still time, I could still join my masters program” Catra pouted as she tapped her pen anxiously on her notebook and bounced her leg under the table. 

It was warm inside the cafe Scorpia picked to meet, but the strong wind outside of its big french windows felt like the rampend nerves that rattled her ribcage. The warmth was nice but only succeeded in making her drowsy and a little grumpy as she resisted the urge to nap. Instead she tortured herself with job searching instead of enjoying the strong bitter coffee and a dramatic story told expertly by her best friend. Actually anything would be better than job searching at this point with a needle of pain pressed against the back of her eyes. 

“Don’t say that wildcat, we’ll find something. We just have to keep looking.” Scorpia said, petting Catra’s hand with one of her big red claws. Catra huffed and looked at the screen of her laptop again. 

“If I just did my masters I wouldn’t have to worry about a job, or lie to mum about it,” Catra said, sitting back in her chair and crossing her arms as she gave in to her foul mood. 

“But you want this, you can’t give up! Uh, remind me again why we are lying to your mum though?” Scorpia asked, looking sheepishly confused with her most supportive face firmly in place. Catra rolled her eyes. 

“Because! She will worry and I don’t need her to worry about this, I’m not a burden” Catra said huffing like a petulant child. Scorpia smiled, gentle and understanding. 

“She just wants to help though, right? She wants you to get a good education and to do what you want in life,” Scorpia reminded her and Catra nodded her head. Her mum had gotten pregnant young and had to delay her studies to raise her. Her father didn’t want anything to do with her and her mum had plenty of jobs over the years with horrible hours for raising a child. 

When Catra was older and could be left alone at home after school her mum could work longer hours and finish her studies. It worked for them, but it was something her mother didn’t want for Catra. She had no doubt that her mum loved her and just wanted to support her. But Catra didn’t want her mum continuing to pay for her schooling when she didn’t have to. She deserved to relax now and let Catra take care of her for a change. 

If she took a gap year and saved her money she could pay for her masters herself so she would stop being a burden on her mum. She might even manage to help her mum pay her bills so she didn’t have to work so hard.

“Yes, but I’m going to help her this time. She would never let me work if she knew. She would want me to focus and say it wasn’t a problem when it clearly is!” Catra said with frustration. She had spoken to her mum many times about this and she just wanted to do right by her. She had enough qualifications to work as a Nanny for a year and save enough to pay her Masters degree starting the next year. It was a perfect plan. 

Except. Catra looked back at her laptop screen. The email that was open before her was her twelfth rejection email. She didn’t think her qualifications would make it so hard to secure a position in a big city like Brightmoon. But she was clearly wrong. 

She interviewed well, she had the qualifications but with every interview they took one look at her and decided they wanted someone else. Catra had thought they might have been judging her because she was a magicat and quite rare, but she had it spelt out for her by one particularly snarky woman. 

“You are too attractive to be a nanny, so it’s a no. I would never let someone as pretty as you around my husband,” the woman had said, and Catra was shocked. She didn’t know how to respond so she just thanked the woman and left. 

Catra later considered if mentioning she was a lesbian would have helped but decided it wasn’t worth it. She didn’t want to work for someone who judged people by their appearances and didn’t want to use her sexuality to reassure these women that she was not trying to steal their husbands. She wasn’t even looking to date! But that was too personal and they didn’t deserve that if they were going to judge her anyway. 

“It's your choice wildcat, but I still think you should tell her,”

“I will take that under advisement, now, have you found anything?” Catra asked and Scorpia shook her head sadly.

“No, looks like there’s no new ads up. I thought I found one but it was caring for someone's dog,”

“Not a big fan of dogs, but I’ll consider it if I get desperate,” Catra said, waving her hand and picking up her coffee to sip the black bitter liquid. It did something to wake her up at least.

“Great, I’ll keep that in mind. Otherwise, I checked this cover letter and you can send it now,” Scorpia said and Catra nodded. Scorpia was already a nanny but she worked for an agency and didn’t live with her clients. She would arrive in the morning and leave every night. Scorpia liked that arrangement much better since she lived with her girlfriend and would miss her too much if she lived with her clients. 

Catra decided to be a live-in nanny because she was unattached and her lease was coming up for renewal. Not to mention her apartment sucked. If she could secure a live-in position it would help her save money over the next 12 months. 

“Let’s talk about something else. What are you up to this weekend?” Catra asked as she decided to just drink her coffee and enjoy a Scorpia original story.

“Oh boy! I’m so nervous, I’m meeting Perfuma’s family for the first time and it feels like a lot of pressure,” Scorpia said, tapping her claws together anxiously as Catra scoffed. “Perfuma is new to the family and I just don’t want to embarrass her. They are SO important to her so they are important to me too,”

“You have nothing to worry about. If they don’t adopt you immediately then they have terrible taste,” Catra said and Scorpia’s eyes watered which made Catra’s ears pin back. She didn’t like big shows of emotion. Yes, she meant everything she said but there was something embarrassing about overwhelming someone in public. It felt like a violation. 

“Aw thanks Wildcat, I hope you are right,”

“Of course, I’m always right,” Catra smirked and Scorpia laughed. Catra asked a few more questions about Scorpia’s weekend as she finished her coffee. She finally looked at her watch and sighed. She had more packing to do and some emails to send. 

“I should get going, thanks for all your help Scorp,” Catra said, packing away her things into her backpack.  

“Not a problem. I’ll keep an eye out for anything my agency can’t take. But you’ve got this Wildcat!” Scorpia said, giving her a gentle hug. Catra heard Scorpia whisper to herself ‘gentle’ as a reminder of Catra’s request for less bone crushing and it made Catra smile. 

“Thanks, I’ll talk to you later,” Catra said as she wrapped her scarf around her neck and dipped her ears into her mane to brace against the cold air outside. 

[...]

Catra was pacing back and forth in her living room. It was only four steps in one direction before running out of room and turned to walk the same path back. Her apartment was a modest hole in the wall. It was a studio apartment above a music shop where the living room was also the kitchen and bedroom. She had placed a bookshelf between her bedroom and the back of her couch to suggest there was a wall there but her tiny bathroom was the only real room in the house. The kitchen was a non-event, the oven hadn’t worked for most of the time she had lived there but she used her microwave and stovetop for all her cooking needs. 

Catra stopped in front of her open laptop to glare at the email, sitting bright and clear in the poorly lit room. She has gone to a couple of interviews over the last few days and has just received the last rejection email. She felt like she was going insane. She tried to dress differently to make herself look less threatening somehow but it still didn’t work. She was overqualified apparently. 

One woman took one look at her and just said no. No interviews, no nothing. It was so frustrating. For smart, beautiful women, they were very threatened by a smart woman in well-fitted $20 jeans. With private work, she had very little say over being discriminated against. They would never admit it anyway.  

Catra flopped onto her couch as her phone started to ring. She jumped to answer it and was only slightly disappointed to see it was Scorpia. 

“Hey Scorp,” Catra said, pulling every shred of excitement she could find in her body and into her voice.   

“Hey Wildcat, I have great news,” Scorpia said, as she sounded like she was barely holding in a scream of excitement. Catra moved her ear away from the phone slightly in preparation in case she suddenly lost that battle. 

“Sure, what happened?” Catra asked, leaning back onto the couch to get comfortable with the long story that was no doubt coming. Scorpia’s great news could range from "I saw a cute dog today" all the way up to meeting her favourite celebrity at the grocery store so she tentatively had her attention. 

“Ok, so you know how Perfuma’s mum just started dating again?” Scorpia said and Catra nodded despite Scorpia not being able to see her.

"Yep," Catra agreed. 

“Well, her mum’s girlfriend has a stepdaughter around our age,” Scorpia said and Catra felt her stomach drop. She hoped Scorpia wasn't about to suggest a blind date or something ridiculous. 

“Uhh, yes?” Catra asked tentatively.

“Well, Perfuma’s mum's girlfriend's mother-in-law is getting too old to take care of her daughter's kid,” Scorpia said excitedly and Catra nodded along. She was following so far. 

“Ok?”

“So! She’s looking for a live-in Nanny and I told her your details!” Scorpia said and Catra felt a tentatively excited smile spread over her face.  

“Scorpia that's great!” Catra exclaimed with delight. It was almost a relief to have Scorpia know the family personally. Surely that would help her in the interview process or was that weird? 

“Right?! I told her she can call you any time, she has some weird work hours so it might be in the evening,” Scorpia said and Catra grinned.

“That's fine with me, you know I’m a night owl. Are you ok with this? It's not weird?” Catra asked and Scorpia hummed thoughtfully. 

“Thanks for asking, but I think it's ok, they are great people so they will have to love you,” Scorpia said and Catra snorted before she grinned.

“Thank you for telling them about me Scorp, it means a lot,” Catra said, trying to show her appreciation despite her dismissal. 

“Of course Wildcat! They would be lucky to have you,” Scorpia said with affection and Catra couldn’t help the feeling of excitement growing in her chest. 

[...]

Catra was watching television while folding laundry on the floor of her living room the following night when her phone lit up in the darkness. Catra looked at the screen to see a private number and felt nerves explode in her stomach. She didn’t even notice how dark her room had gotten as the sun dipped below the horizon. She quickly muted the TV show she was watching after a mildly panicked search for the remote under her laundry piles and grabbed her phone. 

She took a few deep breaths for good measure and answered the phone.

“Hello, Catra D’riluith speaking,” Catra answered in her best professional voice. The sound of clicking keys came to a stop on the other end of the line. 

“Hello Catra, my name is Adora Grey, your friend Scorpia gave me your number,” A smooth feminine voice greeted her. Catra felt nerves build in her gut as the pressure grew under her skin. She wanted to make a good impression and she really wanted this job.

“Yes, she told me to expect your call. She mentioned that you were looking for a live-in Nanny,” Catra responded carefully, trying to sound equally professional as she picked lint off one of her old sweaters.

“That is correct. I apologies for the late hour. I hope I’m not interrupting your night,” The voice responded and the sound of soft keys clicking started up again. 

“Not at all, I’ve got time,” Catra said. She heard a soft hum from her conversation partner.

“If it suits you, I’ll text you my email so you can send your resume, but perhaps you can tell me about your recent work history,”

“That suits me fine. I am taking a break in my studies before I start my master's degree. I have a double major in law and social science and a diploma in working with children and child care. My last three jobs have been working with children from ages one to eight, part time,” Catra said and heard a thoughtful hum from the other line. 

“Those are quite good qualifications, are you sure you are not overqualified to be a Nanny?” the woman asked and Catra flushed. She had this question many times and it felt like part of the reason she was being overlooked.  

“I love working with young people and I don’t think you can ever be overqualified to help raise a child,” Catra said and heard a soft hum. 

“That is true. Thank you for your time. I will send through the details and please have a lovely evening Miss D’riluth,”

“Thank you, you too,” there was a soft click and the woman was gone. Catra hoped she said enough to get an interview at least and was relieved when she got the text with an email address.

[email protected]

Catra quickly sent through her resume and now all she had to do was wait. 

[...]

Catra was surprised to find when she woke the next morning at the humble time of ten that she had an email from someone called Mermista to set up a time to meet with Ms Grey. Catra was bouncing with excitement as she picked out an outfit for her interview very carefully. Oversized sweater and boyfriend jeans with her hair up. It was the best she could do to downplay her petite frame and still look tidy. She could be fun and flowy, that was a good thing for a nanny to be. Right? 

She was notified that her references and background check had been cleared over the days before the interview. This was already more than other interviewers had achieved and it filled her with more confidence. 

Initially her interview was on Monday first thing in the morning, but after three calls from Mermista to adjust the time to later in the day they elected to move it a day later. Adora Grey was a very busy woman it would seem. The interview was now at nine o’clock on Tuesday morning. 

She was sent details for a security check-in and Catra was surprised at the level of security a prosthetics company needed. 

Entering the building was a dwarfing experience. The lobby was made of large glass walls and a loft half level hung above the security desk. Catra went to the desk to check in after a slow perusal of the entryway. 

“Good morning. I’m here to see Adora Grey” Catra said and the woman behind the desk took one look at her before she stood. She was so tall Catra had to crane her neck to look at her face. She was very muscular which was visible through her black suit and white shirt. She had long white hair and a light purple tone to her skin. 

“Why?” The woman asked and Catra tried to stop her tail puffing up under the looming threat. 

“I have an appointment?” Catra offered with visible confusion at the icy reception “For a Nanny position?” Catra said and the woman looked surprised and looked Catra up and down. 

“Really?” The woman asked and Catra glared before she could stop herself.

“Yes and I would like to keep my appointment time if you don't mind,” She said curtly and the woman chuckled. 

“Fair enough, fill this out and then we will need to take a photograph. You’ll have to have a visitor's pass but I’ll get someone from upstairs to collect you,” the woman said. Catra filled out what she was told and had a terrible photo taken before the woman called someone on the desk phone to come get her. 

The woman who arrived was taller than Catra with long blue hair braided into a ponytail and was definitely dressed to impress. Her shoes sparkled like fish scales and her pantsuit was a deep navy blue with gold accents. Catra wasn’t sure who was coming to meet her and smiled when the woman offered her hand to shake.

“Mermista, come with me,” Mermista said curtly.

“Catra, thank you,” Catra said and followed her through the security doors and to the elevator. She was a little distracted as they passed the security doors but she was almost certain she had been scanned by a red light.  

“Ms Grey is in a meeting right now, but she should be done shortly,” Mermista said as they went up the elevator. Catra nodded her head.

“No trouble, she's a busy woman,” Catra said, trying to be friendly. Mermista snorted.

“You can say that again,” Mermista said and brought Catra to the top floor before sitting her in a waiting area and returning to her desk to work on her computer. 

Catra fidgeted and pulled at her clothing as she waited. She was trying to squash her nerves when she checked the time again. It had been almost twenty minutes past the time of her interview. Mermista hadn’t looked at her again since she went to her desk and Catra wondered if she might have been forgotten.

While Catra was watching her, Mermista tapped her ear quickly and started to speak.

“Ya?” Mermista asked, continuing to type as she listened. “Ugh, really?” she asked next.

“Got it, don’t stress,” Mermista said and tapped her ear quickly. She clicked around on her computer for at least another minute before she stood and turned to Catra again.

“Ms Grey’s meeting has gone overtime, she would prefer we didn’t reschedule the interview, are you ok if I take you through it instead?” Mermista asked with practised politeness and Catra was already nodding.

“That's fine with me,” Catra said carefully and Mermista nodded. 

“Good, follow me,” Mermista said, leading Catra into another room. The office behind Mermista’s desk seemed to take up most of this level but there were a few smaller meeting rooms as well. They passed other offices, both empty and occupied, on their way down the hall to their room.

Mermista motioned into the room and Catra went inside and sat at the table. Mermista sat opposite her and pulled out her phone. She quickly clicked into something and placed her phone onto the desk. 

“I have the interview questions, but is it alright if I record our conversation for Ms Grey?” Mermista asked with her finger hovering over the record button on her phone. Catra paused for a moment to consider the question before she nodded her head.

“Yes, that's fine,” Catra said, straightening her clothing again to try to dispel her nerves. Mermista clicked the button to record and made eye contact with Catra across the desk. 

“Great, thank you for coming in for this interview Catra, is it alright if I call you Catra?” Mermista asked and Catra nodded.

“Yes, that’s fine,” She agreed.

“Great, do you know anything about what we do here?” Mermista asked curiously and Catra paused.

“Yes, Greyskull Enterprises is one of the leading manufacturers of biotechnical prosthetics in the world,” Catra said, mentioning something she had read months ago in passing. “Other than that, technology is not really my field of interest, so I can’t say much more,” Catra said and Mermista nodded.

“You’re not trying to steal company secrets are you?” Mermista asked and Catra bristled under the accusation. 

“I hardly think that a billion dollar company is going to trust trade secrets to a Nanny, and if they would, you should seriously rethink your security measures,” Catra snipped and Mermista smirked a little. 

“Good response, I guess you really are a lawyer after all,” Mermista said and Catra felt like maybe she had just passed some kind test. Mermista sat forward against the desk as she looked more invested in this interview. 

“How do you feel about some rapid-fire questions?” Mermista asked, a twinkle in her eyes as Catra leaned forward too, keeping her gaze. 

“Love them, they’re very efficient,” Catra responded, as she thrived under pressure and her quick wit was one of her most discerning features. 

“First aid and CPR Certified?”

“Both,”

“Do you drive?” 

“I can, I don’t keep a car in the city,”

“Smoke?”

“Never,”

“You swim?”

“Yes,”

“Water safety training?”

“Of course”

“How’s your home security?”

“Impeccable,”

“How would you deal with unexpected visitors?”

“I imagine there is security at the home,”

“Naturally,”

“If they make it past that, I would cross check them with the list of known associates, otherwise call the emergency contact, security or the police,” Catra said and Mermista nodded.

“We will provide that list of course, your first point of contact will be Ms Grey, you will have her private number and it is not to be misused for non emergencies, otherwise, you can call the office and I will make myself available,” Mermista said and Catra nodded her head firmly, committing the information to memory. 

“Sure,”

“Do you cook?”

“I love to cook,”

“How do you manage mealtimes?”

“It's a sit-down event, it should be fun and stimulating without being too distracting. In the past I’ve made games out of mealtimes but every child is different,”

“Excellent, Finn is intolerant to milk and has a mild allergy to tomatoes,” Mermista said and Catra nodded as she committed that to memory too.

“I can’t have milk either,”

“Snap, Ms Grey only keeps milk alternatives in the house to avoid any mishaps,”

“That's good,” Catra said and Mermista sat back in her chair. 

“What made you want to work as a live-in nanny?”

“I decided to take a gap year in my studies to work. I was considering working as a nanny for an agency but my apartment was coming up for renewal and it seemed like a sign to try something new,” 

“What was your last experience in childcare and why did it end?”

“It hasn’t ended yet, I still work once a week at Bimbo’s childcare on fifth, I love the work and working with young people. Their minds are like sponges and it's such a pleasure to help them learn new things,”

“What was your worst experience there?” 

“Because of my studies I have a lot of exposure to cases with children being neglected or abused. I had to report a parent at Bimbo’s because the signs were all there,”

“How horrible. How do you feel about managing more than one child at a time?” 

“That's fine with me, I’ve done it before,”

“Finn will be starting school next year, how are you with homework?”

“Good, I have helped with work up till grade three already,”

“What are your thoughts on discipline?”

“I believe strong boundaries and open communication are always the best way to help a child understand. If you talk to them like adults they can understand why a boundary is there,”

"Good, do you have a boyfriend?"

"Ew no," Catra said before she thought better of the knee jerk reaction. 

"A girlfriend?" Mermista asked curiously, leaning forward again and Catra frowned.

"I'm single and not looking to date. What does this have to do with the job?"

“Ms Grey would prefer no unknown people are brought around Finn, if you do have or will have a partner they will not be allowed to meet Finn unless they have passed the same security clearance you have,” Mermista said, sitting back in her chair and clicking her phone. 

“That makes sense, but it won't be an issue,”

“Good to know,” Mermista said, stopping the recording and looking back at Catra.

“You have answered all the questions to my satisfaction. You can meet Finn now and they will make the final decision on whether they like you or not,” Mermista said, getting to her feet and adjusting her clothing to lay flat. Catra’s stomach swooped at the information. 

Ms Grey’s 5 year old will be deciding her fate? She was not prepared for this. 

“O-oh, right now?” Catra said, getting to her feet and Mermista nodding.

“Yep, follow me. Don’t worry, they have only rejected the last 5,” Mermista led her out of the room again and back to her desk as Catra silently panicked. Once she arrived she put her finger to her ear and spoke into the Bluetooth headset. 

“Finn my love, can you come out to my desk for a moment?” Mermista asked in a soft and sweet tone that did not sound like it came from her body. 

Catra waited by the desk for a few moments when the door cracked open and a small blonde child let themselves out of the room and closed the door behind them. They turned to face Mermista curiously.

“Finn, this is Miss Catra,” Mermista said motioning to Catra as they turned to her. Catra could see their darker ears poking out of their blonde mane of hair and their dirty blonde tail flicked with curiosity as they looked up at Catra. 

Catra had never in her wildest dreams thought she would be taking care of a magicat kitten. Her chest burst with affection at their little round face and perfectly fitted suit. Catra felt her ears twitch atop her head, her eyes blown out at the adorable sight before her. Finn’s little ears twitched in return as they looked up at her. 

She finally managed to get herself together and crouched down to Finn’s level to smile at them.

“Hi Finn, how are you today?” Catra asked and Finn smiled as they were eye level. Finn had possibly the biggest ocean blue eyes Catra had ever seen and they stepped closer to Catra, their little nose twitching as they tried to smell her. 

“Your eyes are pretty,” Finn said plainly as they looked at her and Catra smiled.

“Thank you Finn, your eyes are very handsome as well,” Catra returned and they beamed happily. 

“Miss Catra would like to take care of you when your mother is working, do you think that would be ok?” Mermista asked and Finn looked at her before they looked back at Catra in consideration. 

“Yes, I think I would like that,” They said and Catra let out a breath of relief. 

“I would really like that too,” Catra said and Finn beamed. 

“Great, I’ll help Miss Catra get set up and you can go back to your mum,” Mermista said and Finn nodded, giving a little wave before they went back inside the office.

“Looks like you got the job. Come with me, we have so much paperwork to do. When can you start?” Mermista said, waving Catra towards the elevator again.

“Uh, as soon as you like?”

“Great, how's tomorrow?” 

[...]

Catra’s morning was a whirlwind of security checks to have a keycard for the building created and a new, much better photo taken for the card. She was advised that she would need to return to collect it in the next few days once it was printed. 

Mermista took Catra to the penthouse uptown using a car service which was apparently now at Catra’s disposal. The car and driver were so fancy that Catra felt out of place sitting in the back seat. Mermista seemed to know the driver personally and listened to his rattling stories as they weaved through traffic. 

When they arrived at the house Catra was shocked that the whole top story was theirs. The space was clean and tidy with a homey feel to its walls. It had pictures and paintings and drawings all over the walls. So many faces to remember that apparently all knew Finn and Adora. She will have to look at them later. The house smelt of the little blonde kitten but also of another scent which was warm and woody. Catra’s nose twitched with distaste when she suddenly smelt something she wasn’t expecting.

“Oh, I forgot to mention Swiftwind,” Mermista said casually as she walked down the entrance hall. Catra frowned in confusion as she hoped her nose was wrong.

“Swiftwind?” Catra asked and a responding "boof" came from the living room. A dog, great. Catra didn’t love dogs, not from any negative experiences but simply lack of exposure. At the end of the hall there was a pure white giant staring back at her. 

“This is Swiftwind, they’re a Great Dane. He has someone to walk him and mostly lounges around all day, so he won't be much of an issue,” Mermista said, petting him as he wagged his tail happily. 

“That's fine,” Catra said nervously, approaching the dog and offering her hand for him to sniff. He headbutted her hand without a care in the world. 

“He's a bit chatty, but if you tell him to keep it down he will listen,” Mermista said and Catra nodded. “He's fully trained, I’ll make sure you have a list of his commands,” Mermista said, making a note on her phone. 

“Thanks,” Catra continued to pet the dog for a moment and he melted at the affection.

Where Catra was standing at the end of the hall made it easy to see into the large living room with bookshelves lining all available walls and into the adjoining kitchen which was bigger than Catra’s apartment. Catra looked at the soft grey countertops and the fancy appliances on the counter including a coffee machine with more buttons than a keyboard. 

“Right, I’ll show you your room. Ms Grey is in the master bedroom at the end of the hall, Finn’s is on the right and yours is on the left,” Mermista motioned and Catra nodded. “Ms Grey has a study which is the door on the other side of the family bathroom there, no one is permitted to enter when Ms Grey is not inside and she often keeps it locked,” Mermista confirmed and Catra nodded her head slowly as she looked at the door curiously.  

Mermista opened the door to Catra’s room and it was much bigger than she expected for a Nanny. It had a king sized bed, a dressing table, a couch, heating, shelves, a dresser and bedside tables. There was already more furniture than Catra had for herself. 

“If you don’t like any of the furniture we can switch it out for something else,” Mermista said boredly, and Catra blinked at her with wide eyes. 

“I can’t tell if you’re joking,” Catra said, feeling a little in awe.

“I never joke about ugly furniture. I suggest replacing the drawers with a closet so you can hang your clothing,” Mermista said, tapping on her phone again like she was going to do without Catra’s input. 

“Oh, no, that's fine, I don’t have to hang my clothes,” Catra said, not wanting to be a bother, and Mermista looked her up and down before she made eye contact.

“That leads to my next point. The Grey-Skull-Moon family takes appearances very seriously, so now you are in their employment you are required to dress appropriately,” Mermista said motioning to herself and Catra flushed with embarrassment. 

“My clothes are fine,” Catra defended and Mermista snorted.

“No. Ms Grey’s personal shopper will buy you appropriate clothing that you are required to wear. It's part of your employment package so I will make sure you have a closet delivered tomorrow so you can put them away,” Mermista said and tapped on her phone once again.

“Oh, what kind of clothing?” Catra asked and there was movement in the doorway as a tall platinum blonde with green skin entered the room.

“Only the best my dear. You can call me Dee,” they offered their hand and Catra took it to shake. 

“Catra,” Catra offered and they smirked at her. Catra felt like she was under interrogation. 

“A pleasure, I’ve got it from here Merms,” Dee offered and Mermista rolled her eyes. 

“Fine, I’ll get back to my actual job I guess,” Mermista said dryly, and it was mere minutes before Catra was swept up in another car and taken to the fanciest boutique she had ever seen. The boutique had a high glass ceiling with actual live vines growing along the roof to let in speckles of light from the sun. 

Dee took Catra straight to the back of the building and into the large change room. They held up some options of different styles so Catra could decide.

“What’s your look darling?”  Catra herself liked tidy presentable clothing for work but she preferred comfortable soft clothing when she was relaxing. 

“I guess a mix between professional and comfortable clothing for around home?” Catra asked a little unsure what was being offered to her.

“Well, this is a travesty,” Dee said as they picked at her oversized clothing and Catra frowned at them.

“It’s comfortable,” Catra defended and Dee snorted.

“Darling you are swimming in it, what size are you?” Dee asked and Catra told them her petite size and they clapped their hands with delight.

“Perfect, let's get started,” they said with a devious glint in their eyes. Trying on clothing, critiques and analysis.

Catra was instructed to undress to her undergarments before Dee had plenty to say about that too. They ensured she had new bras and underwear added to their purchases. Catra quickly learnt that fighting Dee just made the process longer and they would win in the end regardless.

Catra stood in front of the full length mirror that reflected at least 8 versions of herself from slightly different angles. She was wearing a beautiful silk blouse and a pair of incredibly well fitting jeans. She knew the clothing was expensive just from how amazing it felt against her soft fur. The tailor made adjustments to all her tail holes and ensured everything fit her like a glove but were easy to move in. 

Dee was looking at Catra with a look of contemplation on their face and Catra frowned slightly before she asked.

“What?” Dee brought their eyes up to look at Catra in the mirror.

“I was just wondering what a pretty thing like you are doing hiding under all those frumpy clothing,”

Catra tried to hide the blush the complement burnt into her skin and Dee smirked deviously. 

“People as attractive as us, kitten, should make the world jealous,” they said and Catra laughed before she looked back at herself in the mirror. 

“I suppose there is no harm in well fitted clothing,” Catra conceded and Dee clapped their hands with delight.

“I’ll take it,” Dee was quickly identified as a menace, none of the clothing had price tags on it but Catra knew they were the kind of clothing that if you had to ask you couldn’t afford them. Apparently nothing was off limits and Catra got every possible clothing type she could need. 

She had to stop Dee from throwing her jeans and sweater in the bin and instead hid them in one of her many bags of clothing. 

The car was full of her spoils and Dee told her they would be in her room ready for her tomorrow. If she could arrive before 9am at the house Finn’s grandmother would drop them off at 10am and she would be on duty from that point. 

With new keys on her fluffy purple cat keychain, she was dropped off at her own apartment to finish packing and arranging for her things to be collected for storage. 

The whole day felt like a dream, it was all so unreal. She was waiting to wake up but when she sat in her living room staring at her wall for almost an hour to process everything from her day she realised it was all real. 

She was so excited to spend the following day with Finn and get to know them better. She didn’t care at all about the perks of her new job, her only real care was about spending time with this little blonde kitten. She knew she had to be careful not to get too attached but with eyes like those she couldn’t help but be smitten.

Chapter Text

Adora sighed again as she glanced at the clock in the corner of her computer screen. She was already fifteen minutes late to her next meeting and this one wasn’t any closer to wrapping up than it had been two hours ago. She had been listening to two of the shareholders arguing their case since five this morning and although she didn’t agree with their assessments she had agreed to hear them out. She had been on mute for almost forty minutes now and there was no end in sight.

Finn had arrived only thirty minutes earlier and Adora hadn’t had a chance to offer them a proper greeting yet. But they were sitting happily at their desk while they drew something filled with colours. Adora had been given a transformer toy by Finn when they arrived and she sat fiddling with it on her lap while she listened. Going through the motions of unfolding it and folding it back into a car several times.

There was a lull in the meeting and Adora tapped her unmute button quickly.

“Gentlemen, I don’t think we are going to have a decision today, let's wrap this up and reassess next week,” Adora said, her voice calm and commanding.

“Excellent idea Ms Grey, let me summarise my points quickly,” the shareholder from Dryl responded quickly and launched into recounting every point he had made that morning. Adora tapped her mute button quickly before another sigh escaped her. She tapped her phone which connected to the Bluetooth earpiece she was wearing, to call her assistant.

“Ya,” Mermista’s deadpan voice came over the phone before it really had a chance to ring.

“This meeting is going into overtime, can you move up my next meeting to after lunch?” Adora said and heard Mermista typing immediately.

“Ugh, really?”

“I don’t want to reschedule the Nanny interview again at such late notice, can you take her through the interview please?” Adora asked, resisting the urge to make a sour face. She had already rescheduled this interview three times and she was not going to do it again.

“Got it, don’t stress,” Mermista said.

“Thanks,” The line went dead and Adora settled in to continue playing with Finn’s toy while she listened to every point she had already heard. She was annoyed that she didn’t have time to do the interview for someone who would have access to Finn but she trusted Mermista and she could read people like a book.

Adora would usually have a firmer grip on meetings regarding her company, but the suggestion that their biotechnical prosthetics could be used for military applications was garnering interest within the board. Adora would still have the final say on any decision the board wanted to make, but unhappy shareholders were more troubled than they were worth. She would listen to their arguments and make a decision which reflected the values of the company and her family.

It barely seemed like any time at all when Finn’s desk phone rang and they answered it politely. Once they hung up the phone they got up and looked up at her as she watched them.

“Can I go to Mermista’s desk?” Finn asked and Adora smiled at them.

“Of course,” She agreed and while Finn was gone, Adora seriously began considering making up a family emergency to get out of this meeting.

Finn wasn’t gone long, only a few minutes if that, one and a half ‘summarised’ points provided by the Dryl stakeholder.

Finn came back into the room and took their seat quietly. Adora watched them for a moment, their ears were flicking and swivelling and their tail was thumping into things as it swayed with excitement. She assumed Mermista had Finn meet the Nanny and they seemed pleased.

“Did you like her Finny?” Adora asked and Finn looked up at her with big excited eyes.

“Yes! I like her. Can we keep her?” Finn asked with big eyes and Adora smiled softly at them.

“Of course, they are going to be taking care of you after all,” Adora said and Finn trilled with excitement as they grabbed a new piece of paper to start a new drawing.

[...]

On the days that Finn joined Adora in the office she would make an exception to take a lunch break to take them out for food. But after her morning meeting took up her whole morning she was incredibly behind in her work.

Adora sent a quick message to Finn’s Uncle Bow who worked on the lower floors and he arrived at twelve sharp to take Finn for lunch.

Bow even advised that Adora needed to take time for lunch as well and she waved him off as she went into another meeting.

Finn returned to the office around two with a takeaway container of noodles for Adora. Adora was ten minutes late for her next meeting as she made sure to take the time to give Finn cuddles and ask about their lunch experience. She would usually keep her days with Finn as free as possible so she could spend more time with them, but it just wasn’t on the cards today. Finn was incredibly understanding for a four and three quarters year old but they were always ahead of other kids their age.

After “work” which was really only five because Adora wanted to ensure Finn got dinner on time and she would work again in the evening. They were going to Finn’s grandmothers for dinner and Finn was having a sleepover. Adora could catch up on work and hopefully get some sleep somewhere in there.

Adora called their personal car service to take them to Angella’s house. Angella’s house was a mansion in the hills with big windows and even taller ceilings. It was the kind of house that screamed old money which was fitting since the Moon’s practically founded this city. Adora walked into the Conservatory when Angella had been spending most of her evenings.

“Gramma!” Finn squealed and ran up to Angella before Adora even spotted her among the plants. Angella crouched to wrap her arms around the little blond ball of hair and picked them up to toss in the air gently.

“My darling Finn!” Angella cooed with affection as she held Finn’s small frame close to her chest and they rubbed their faces all over her. “Adora,” Angella said with a bright smile that was only slightly dimmed with worry. But that was a look Adora was getting used to.

“Hey Angie,” Adora said, wrapping both Angella and Finn in a hug that made Finn giggle with delight. Angella squeezed her back just as tightly and smiled.

“How are you Adora? Are you sleeping ok?” Angella asked as she started putting her gardening tools away with one free hand as she balanced Finn on her other hip.

“I’m fine, sleeping about as well as usual,” Adora said, looking around the room at the flowers and plants that had slowly become Angella’s new obsession since she started dating her new girlfriend. “This looks lovely, are you sure you don’t need more plants?” Adora asked playfully, and Angella rolled her eyes, looking every bit like Glimmer with the motion.

“Har har, I’m getting there,” Angella said and smiled as she pressed a kiss to Finn’s little cheek.

“Let me get cleaned up and we can have dinner. My chef made salmon so I hope you’re hungry,” Angella said to Finn and they nodded with excitement.

“I went to lunch with Unkibow and I had tuna and it was so yummy,” Finn started explaining with full excitement and Adora paused to consider if she ever ended up eating the lunch Finn had brought back for her. Perhaps that was why she was feeling a little light headed?

She followed Angella back into the main house and took Finn to play in the games room while Angella got tidied up for dinner. Adora and Finn were lining the tracks for a train to carry some teddies around the room when Glimmer arrived and Finn excitedly explained the game so she could join.

Adora and Glimmer exchanged a quick hug in greeting and Glimmer asked how Adora was, which she brushed off again with another “I’m fine”.

Bow arrived right when dinner was being served, working in the technical side of Greyskull meant he kept unusual hours but he always managed to arrive right when he was needed. It was something Adora envied as someone who was perpetually late to things because of her commitments.

Dinner was relaxing and it helped Adora to recharge to just be around her family. She made her excuses to depart after dinner so she wouldn’t get another interrogation about taking care of herself and showered Finn with affection before she left.

She hated nights when Finn was away, it was strange to be in the house alone. Well, she had Swiftwind who would sleep at her feet and keep her company but it wasn’t Finn.

Adora worked for several hours before her phone beeped to remind her of her early morning meeting. She decided to try to sleep and retired to her room.

As she passed the spare room she noticed the bags of clothing on the floor and was reminded that her home was going to have a new resident soon. She wished she could have at least met the woman who would be taking care of her child before she moved in. It was unfortunate circumstances that Adora had no control over. She hated those.

All Adora knew about her was that she was very well qualified and she sounded a lot younger than Adora expected on the phone. Dee would have had a field day with a new Barbie doll to dress up. She reminded herself to check the invoice to ensure they didn’t buy anything unnecessary just because they could.

She pulled the door close to the room and went to her room. She changed into her soft silk pyjamas and climbed into bed. She laid there counting sheep, listening to meditation music and even took a sleeping pill before she finally gave up and grabbed her laptop to continue to work. She slept the night before, sleeping two nights in a row was clearly asking too much.

[...]

Adora must have slept at some point during the night because she awoke to her alarm with a start. She closed her laptop and got dressed for her day. She only struggled for a moment to get her left hand to react as she pulled on her suit vest and buttoned the front. She frowned at the appendage and tested its reflex for a moment before she brushed it off and pulled on her jacket.

She was grabbing a protein bar from the kitchen when the security intercom buzzed. She went and pushed the button in the kitchen.

“Yes?” She asked.

“Ms Grey, there is a delivery here for you, a closet, can we send it up?” The security guard asked in a lazy drawl. She vaguely remembered Mermista putting a closet on her card yesterday. She checked her watch, she would have to wait for them to leave before she could go. She still had half an hour before she really needed to go for her meeting.

“Thanks, send them up,” she said and stood in the kitchen eating her breakfast bar and drinking coffee as she waited.

She let them in and waited for them to take the old cabinet away before she tipped them well I'm on their way out. She wrote a quick text to Juliette to let her know there was a new person on the staff and to introduce herself today. She checked her personal calendar and saw that DT would be meeting the nanny before she met with Finn and Angella.

Adora wished she could be there to meet this nanny but she had a board meeting that was taking up almost her entire day. Board members were flying in from out of state just to talk about this ridiculous military application non-sense.

Adora quickly called a car and left for the office. It was going to be a long day.

[...]

Adora’s day is as much of a mess as she had expected. At around eleven in the morning she got a message from Mermista that Angella called and to call her back. She marked it as non-urgent so Adora at least knew that it wasn’t regarding Finn.

Mermista and Juliette were giving Adora updates on the Nanny over the course of the day. Mermista said she was all moved in and Dee got their clothing organised in the new closet. Juliette had introduced herself to the Nanny and was now apparently part of the game that Finn was playing. Adora couldn’t wait to find out how Finn liked their new friend but it would have to wait for another day. Mermista confirmed that the nanny was on the clock from today and that Adora’s call with Halfmoon tonight at ten would be able to go ahead.

She was both relieved and irritated with the news. Halfmoon was eight hours behind Brightmoon which made the meeting far more inconvenient for Adora.

Mermista got Adora some late lunch and was sent home for the night around six while Adora worked and waited for her meeting. It was done within two hours but since Adora hadn’t slept the night before she was feeling a little delirious.

She called a car to take her home, and stared out the window in a daze as the lights and buildings zipped by.

One positive about taking a car so late was that traffic was almost non-existent which was unheard of in Brightmoon on a normal day. She rather enjoyed the quietness of a world still asleep.

[...]

Adora arrived home just before one. She was sure she would be able to sleep tonight simply because of the level of exhaustion she felt. She walked like a zombie to the fridge, not even bothering to turn on the lights. She heard the movement of Swifty rolling over as he decided he was too tired to greet her. She was blinded by the fridge light momentarily as she looked inside.

There were plenty of healthy nutritious foods that she could make something with, but she was exhausted. The act of making said food was just beyond her at this point. Her eyes landed on a collection of chocolate pudding cups she had bought for Finn as a treat. She grabbed one, a little desperate as she pulled the foil off and shut the fridge. She turned to grab a spoon from the draw on the kitchen island when a shadow in the door caught her attention. She almost jumped out of her skin as her eyes adjusted in the now dark room.

The first thing Adora saw was skin, warm bronze legs that went on forever, toned and tanned. The woman was wearing a pair of sleeping shorts and a black band shirt. It was far too dark to make out the details of the shirt, just that it was baggy, almost reaching the bottom of her shorts. Her long dark hair was messy from sleep and looked like a void in the dim light. Her tail and ears were pricked to attention but her multi-coloured eyes were squinting at her suspiciously. Her eyes glowed in the darkness, clearly able to see more than Adora could.

“Who are you?” The woman rasped and Adora had to fight her body’s reaction to crush the pudding cup in her hand at the sound. Adora tried to get her tired brain to function as she scrambled for a response. She felt a little bewitched by this woman. What were words? The woman crossed her arms, looking annoyed. “Well?” She prompted and Adora finally jolted into action.

“I live here,” Adora said but it almost sounded like a question and the woman looked surprised before she looked Adora up and down. She was probably judging Adora’s dishevelled appearance. Once she was home, she had wasted no time removing her jacket and unbuttoning her vest. She even went so far as to untuck her shirt from her pants. She looked like a mess.

If Adora was more awake she might have considered this a break in but her brain really wasn’t firing on all cylinders as ‘legs’ went around her brain on repeat. She felt so strangely out of place in her own home under the gaze of this ruffled half naked woman.

Adora fought the blush that threatened to creep up her neck at her own thoughts and put her business persona back on like a protective shield. She really was too tired for this.

“Adora Grey,” she said, offering her hand and the woman looked up at her face. The woman made the most adorable squeaking sound and after a moment she stepped forward to shake Adora’s hand.

“Nice to finally meet you, Boss, I’m Catra D'riluth” Catra said, her hand felt small in Adora’s and the way she said ‘Boss’ caused butterflies to twist up in her stomach.

“Adora is fine,” Adora rushed to correct her. She wasn’t sure why she wanted to blush just looking at this stranger. “So, you’re my new Nanny,” Adora said, fighting the urge to look Catra up and down again. She could barely see her in the dark, even once her eyes had adjusted but she could see enough. Some of her thoughts must have shown on her face as Catra started to look nervous.

“Yes, that’s me, is that…that ok?” Catra looked up at Adora, her ears twitching downwards to hide in her mane of hair.

“Yes, yes, that’s fine, welcome!” Adora said, her voice sounding higher in pitch than usual to her ears.

“Thank you. I’m very happy to be here,” Catra said, looking down at Adora’s other hand where the chocolate pudding cup had been forgotten. “Are you eating a pudding cup for dinner?” Catra asked, her fang standing out in the dark as she smirked.

“No, uh, well yes, it’ll tide me over till breakfast,” Adora said, releasing Catra’s hand as she realised that she had been holding it for too long. Catra smiled and reached over to flick the lights on.

“Don’t be silly, I'll make you something,” Catra said walking to the fridge to grab out some ingredients.

“You really don’t have to do that,” Adora assured and only received a snort from Catra before she turned to the island and unloaded an armful of ingredients.

Adora almost wished she could go back to her muted view of Catra in the darkness because she was unprepared to view her in full light. She was breathtaking, and a magicat. Adora’s last girlfriend before she had Finn had been a Magicat. Adora tried to keep her eyes away from the long legs presented to her. How could even her knees be pretty?

Adora grabbed a spoon to eat her pudding cup and Catra grinned at her.

“Really, it’s no trouble,” Catra said, grabbing a cutting board and getting to work. Adora glanced at Catra’s pretty face as she ate her pudding. Her brain was still not functioning at full capacity. Freckles.

Adora didn’t know what to do, she was always the one providing for others and had no idea how to react to someone doing something for her. After what felt like an extended silence, Adora realised she had finished her pudding and it barely made a dent in her hunger.

“Thank you,” Adora said softly, and the woman’s ears twitched adorably.

“It’s my pleasure,” Catra said, pausing as she cut up vegetables to make eye contact again. Her two-toned eyes held Adora captive; they were warm and cold. Like a sun shower on a summer’s day. She had no perception of time anymore. The woman smiled softly as a warm colour came to her cheeks at Adora’s staring, a fang poking out of her lips. Adora was in so much trouble. She did not have time for a crush.

[...]

Adora took extra time to make herself look presentable in the morning. She didn’t want to embarrass herself again in front of her new employee. She wore her favourite navy suit with a blue and gold corset vest and soft blue shirt. She walked out of her room and down the hall towards Finn’s room.

She heard a telltale thump of the little kitten getting out of bed in a hurry and when Adora cracked the door open she could see Finn trying to push their blankets back onto their bed. Adora smiled at the sight of Finn, all scruffy and fluffed up from sleep. They noticed Adora in the door and shuffled sleepily over to her. Adora reached down and hefted them onto her right arm and Finn snuggled into her chest ready to go back to sleep.

Adora didn’t have much time in the mornings so they had fallen into a routine of Finn getting up with Adora and sleepily being carried around while Adora got ready for the day. Adora always had more time in the evening but Finn liked the sleepy snuggles so Adora made sure to provide them.

Finn was humming softly as they rubbed their faces against Adora. Adora flexed her left hand experimentally again before she carefully brushed Finn’s hair back from their face and placed a kiss on their head.

Adora walked them both into the kitchen, almost tripping over Swifty as he decided he wanted breakfast right this second.

Adora got some of his dog food out of the fridge, and he had his own personal chef to make sure he got the nutrients he needed. Adora then let him outside onto the entertaining area to run around and went about making coffee as quietly as possible.

Finn was practically dead to the world as Adora went through her morning routine until she noticed the nanny walk into the room in the corner of her eye.

“Morning,” Catra greeted and Adora turned to her with a nod.

“Morning,” Adora said. They both seemed to pause to admire the others' clothing choices. Dee had really outdone themselves. Catra wore a pair of nicely fitted jeans with a loose fitted blouse, gold belt and a red cut-off jacket which she had the sleeves pushed up.

“How did you sleep?” Adora asked, her eyes shooting back to her task of making breakfast with one hand.

“Pretty good, did you want me to take them?” Catra asked and Adora quickly shook her head. This would be so much faster with two hands, but she wouldn’t be able to cuddle her sleepy kitten.

“I’m fine, thank you,” Adora said, possibly too quickly. Catra nodded her head and for a moment looked a little awkward from the swift rejection. Adora felt bad but she couldn’t help how flustered she felt after their interaction the night before. Catra went to the fridge to get things out for Finn’s breakfast.

“How did you sleep?” Catra asked as she brought out the things for Finn’s breakfast. It was healthy but probably not seen as very fun for a kids meal. Adora was over analysing everything already, did Catra think this was a boring meal for a child?

“Well enough,” Adora lied, it was becoming second nature to her now but somehow it still made her feel awful to do it. Finn was waking up properly now with the conversation happening around them and once they were fully awake they seemed to notice Catra in the room.

“Morning Miss Catra,” Finn said and made grabby hands at her. Catra smiled at Finn’s obvious request for Catra to take them but she glanced at Adora for confirmation it was ok. Adora nodded her head, if Finn wanted to go to her now that was fine. Catra took them and hefted them onto her hip. Catra and Finn rubbed their cheeks together in a greeting Adora hadn’t seen before and it made an unwarranted feeling build in her chest. It felt like jealousy but for a fleeting moment she was unsure who she was jealous of.

Adora looked away, not giving the feeling the time of day. This was what she wanted: Catra could help Finn understand their own species better and teach them how to embrace who they were. Adora finished making her breakfast and sat at the table to eat.

Once Catra and Finn finished with their greeting Catra put them in their booster seat. Finn was still very small compared to a human child of the same age so they still needed a booster seat to reach the table.

Catra brought over Finn’s food and looked to be eating something similar. She gave Finn their food and some juice before she sat at the table with Adora. They ate their food in silence and Adora hoped she was imagining how awkward this felt. She glanced at Catra a few times and noticed her tail was completely still. Very awkward, it would seem.

“Mama, can we go to the zoo this weekend?” Finn asked suddenly and Adora smiled as she looked at them.

“Of course, we can see the lions again,” Adora said, remembering how Finn was so excited about them when they went the month before.

“Yeah! Can Miss Catra come too?” Finn asked with big eyes.

“Miss Catra doesn’t work on the weekends. I’m sure she has her own plans.” Adora said gently. She didn’t want to encroach on Catra’s free time and she certainly didn’t want to blur the boundaries of her employment. Finn would have to be content with Catra’s time when she was on the clock.

Catra sent Adora a curious look, like she was trying to read her before she smiled at Finn.

“I’m seeing my mum this weekend, but we can go to the zoo together sometime soon, ok?” Catra offered and Finn pouted a little but nodded their head in understanding.

[...]

Adora clicked on the intercom on her desk that connected her to Mermista.

“Ya,” Mermista said instead of an actual greeting.

“Can you come in here, please?” Adora said, squeezing the bridge of her nose with frustration at the thought of having this conversation. She had tried most of the morning to focus on the task at hand but her mind kept wandering and it was becoming very frustrating.

“Why did you do this to me?” Adora asked seriously as Mermista flopped into the seat across from her.

“You’ll have to be more specific than that boss,” Mermista drawled as she casually checked her perfectly manicured nails.

“The nanny,” Adora specified and Mermista almost cracked a smile as she looked at Adora.

“Isn’t she great? Best hire I’ve ever done,” Mermista’s tone was even but Adora could see the mischievous look in her eyes.

“Explain,” Adora said curtly, and Mermista smiled as she held up her fingers, her glittery claws sparkling in the light.

“Two reasons. One, you told me you wanted to trial a nanny, she’s overqualified so she may not stay long term. If she does stay, we already know her termination date because she is going to start her masters,” Mermista stated and Adora nodded, this was true. Her short-term contract was a benefit that few other employers would want.

“Two, Finn has never been exposed to another Magicat before, even if she were around for a short time, it would benefit them greatly to learn normal social expressions from her,” Mermista said plainly and again Adora nodded. She couldn’t fault that either, but those were not the reasons she was annoyed with Mermista’s choice.

“What’s really eating you, boss?” Mermista asked as a sly grin grew over her face and Adora knew her cheeks turned pink as she frowned.

“Nothing. Thank you for your insights, that will be all,” Adora said firmly and Mermista got to her feet. She took a moment to straighten her skirt and blazer before turning towards the door.

“I didn’t tell you anything you didn’t already know,” Mermista said. Adora had already thought of those exact reasons why Catra would make a good nanny for Finn. But the most important part was that Finn was happy with their choice.

Adora could deal with any inconveniences which may arise as long as Finn got what they needed. She had never considered a Nanny could look like that though. She was beautiful and apparently quite distracting. Adora could keep this professional and ignore her attraction until this silly crush resolved itself.

[...]

Adora was getting used to this feeling of exhaustion. She never seemed to get a moment's rest. She arrived home right as Catra was serving dinner and she kindly made Adora a plate. Adora was impressed that Catra was such a good cook and Finn seemed to enjoy what she made.

Adora spent her evening playing with Finn. They seemed to realise that Adora was tired and tried to bring her things and include Catra in the games. Adora did her best not to stare while Catra interacted with Finn. She was so good with them and it was incredibly cute. Adora was reasonably sure that Catra did not like to be observed, every time Adora would catch her eye Catra would look away quickly. Adora made an effort to stop staring but she hoped she didn’t seem like she was purposefully not looking at Catra.

Finn fell asleep on the couch half way through an epic tale they were telling about the toys in the kingdom. Adora bundled up her sleepy kitten and took them to bed. It was a strange luxury that when Adora returned to the living room Catra had tidied up the toys.

It was such a small thing but it felt like a weight lifted off her shoulders. It had been over five years since she had lived with another adult in the house.  Catra had tidied up after making dinner too and it was one less thing that Adora had to think about. It was nice.

“Thank you,” Adora said as Catra put the last of the toys in the toy chest.

“No trouble, boss,” Catra said and Adora felt her heart pick up as she rushed to correct her.

“Please don’t call me that,” Adora said and Catra looked serious as she nodded.

“Sorry, old habits, Ms Grey,” she corrected and Adora wanted to groan. She didn’t want her to call her that either, but it was better than the first option.

“Adora is fine,” Adora corrected again and Catra smiled a little as she straightened the things on the coffee table.

“Sure,” Catra agreed and Adora nodded.

“I have some work to finish. Sleep well Miss Catra,” Adora said to excuse herself and Catra smiled before she nodded.

“You too,” Catra said and went to her room and Adora went to her study. Technically Adora didn’t have anything pressing to attend to tonight but there was always work to be done. She could get a start on tomorrow's work and still get a few hours of sleep if she was lucky.

[...]

“You have a visitor,” Mermista’s voice chimed into her earpiece and startled Adora out of her hyper-focused state. She had been going over figures for the last three hours and she was in the zone and now it was broken. She had told Mermista not to bother her with anything while she prepped for this meeting.

“I told you I didn’t want to be disturbed,” Adora replied as she muted her earpiece and leaned back on her chair to stretch out her back. She groaned deeply at the relief the movement gave her.

“It's the boy wonder and he won't leave,” Mermista said, her voice sounding entertained as Adora heard Adam clearly scoffing in the background.

“Send him in,” Adora said and took off the earpiece to move a chair to the other side of her desk for Adam to sit on.

Adam came into the room, pulling the door closed behind him as he leaned heavily on his walking cane. His face was pinched in pain as he moved into the room. Adora’s hands twitched to help him but she knew from experience he hated the help.

“Adam, what a lovely surprise,” she said, approaching him to hug. She was gentle and received a gentle hug in return. She could hear how he was panting from the exertion from the walk here. She smiled as she pulled back and motioned for him to sit.

“I figured I was overdue, I hope I’m not interrupting,” Adam said carefully, taking up the chair provided for him. Adora sat across the desk from him and smiled.

“No, I can always make the time,” Adora said firmly. “How have you been?” She asked and Adam shrugged as he adjusted his right leg carefully.

“Not too bad, good days and bad days. How about you?” Adam asked, motioning to Adora’s left side.

“Fine, it's been a bit twitchy lately but I’m almost due for a nerve calibration, so I figure that's probably what's causing it,” Adora said, flexing her left hand carefully.

“That would probably explain it,” Adam nodded his head and Adora looked at her brother seriously.

“What can I do to help?” Adora asked and Adam chuckled.

“Dor, you already do so much,” he said, shaking his head. “Those nerve blockers Greyskull provided are a godsend on the bad days,” Adam said and Adora nodded with a small frown. Nothing ever felt like enough. Adora may have lost her arm in that car crash, but the nerve damage Adam suffered was something he had to deal with at every moment of his life. Adora wouldn’t rest until she found a way to help him, really help him.

“How's Finny? I’ll have to come by to see them soon,” Adam said, leaning back on the chair carefully.

“They are going well, the new Nanny is settling in well with them,” Adora said with a shrug as she realised she hadn’t called Angella back the day before.

“Angie mentioned the new nanny,” Adam said with a playful smile on his face. Adora frowned at him.

“What did she say?” Adora asked, concerned that Angella didn’t like her, or had a bad interaction with her.

“Angie said she was pretty,” Adam said wiggling his eyebrows, and Adora felt herself flush.

“I hardly think that's relevant,” Adora defended and Adam grinned.

“Irrelevant, but not incorrect right sis?” he said and chuckled. Adora could see the flinch he made at the motion but it was so good to see him laughing.

“She is a very attractive woman,” Adora conceded and Adam grinned.

“Very attractive is she now?” Adam teased and Adora felt herself flush.

“Adam,” She growled and Adam chuckled in delight.

“Sorry, I don’t mean to tease, it was just such a surprise,” Adam said relaxing into the chair again.

“How so?” Adora asked with a small confused frown.

“You hire a Nanny and instead of them being a sixty year old woman, she turns out to be a young babe who likes kids, seems like fate.” Adam said, as the number one busybody for Adora’s personal relationships she expected no less from him.

“How's Teela?” Adora asked and changing the subject only to make Adam grin wider.

“That's actually why I came,” Adam said and Adora frowned with concern.

“Is she ok?” Adora asked, she knew that Teela had been a little sick lately.

“I hope so! She's pregnant,” Adam said and Adora grinned widely.

“Adam, that's fantastic, congratulations to you both,” Adora said. She wanted nothing more than to crush her twin brother in a hug but she restrained herself. Instead she came around the desk and hugged him carefully. He returned the hug with a pat on her back.

“Thanks Adora, I wanted to make sure you were the first to know, so don’t tell anyone else just yet,” Adam said and Adora smiled at him.

“Thank you, I can’t wait to meet them, I need to send you a gift basket or something. You better be upgrading your car. The one you have isn’t good for a baby seat,” Adora said as she returned to her computer and started typing a list of things she could get for the expecting couple.

“Adora, stop, you don’t need to get us anything, we’re fine,”

“Adam, if Dad were here he would be spoiling you both rotten! At least let me get you a car?” Adora asked incredulously and Adam laughed.

“Adora, really, I would say the same to the old man. We don’t need your gifts, I just want our kid to know their loving auntie,” Adam said and Adora nodded her head.

“Of course they will, I wouldn’t miss it for the world,” Adora said.

“You better not…You’ve been taking care of yourself, right sis? You look tired,” Adam said and Adora looked away from his concerned gaze at the screen covered in the most child safe cars money could buy.

“Of course,” Adora said, it was unconvincing and Adam knew her better than that.

“Adora, please, you should take a break,”

“I have that snow trip I’m taking for my birthday,” Adora defended, looking back at Adam to see his unconvinced face.

“Isn’t that a work trip?” He asked and Adora huffed.

“Yes, it's a holiday destination. I plan to snowboard for a few days to celebrate and I’m even bringing Finn,” Adora said. It sounded like a holiday to her, surely it counted.

“And the nanny?” Adam asked and Adora rolled her eyes.

“Well, yes, possibly. I will have to ask her” Adora said. She could take care of her own child, she had been doing it for almost five years already with very little help from anyone. She didn’t need Catra to come. She was fine. Adam just nodded his head like he was thinking.

“You wont get any time to relax if you are taking care of Finn the whole time,” he pointed out, and Adora shrugged. She didn’t need to relax, she had too much to do to take too much time off.

“Finn is very good at relaxing, they love to nap,” Adora defended, even if Catra can’t come she would be happy to spend her time with Finn. She would just need someone to take care of them while she had her meeting. Easy done.

“Adora, seriously, you should find more time for yourself. Not doing anything for anyone else, just relaxing.”

“I’ll consider it,” Adora said, glancing at the time unconsciously as Adam sighed as if he was deflating.

“Right, I better get out of your hair. Angie is next on the list, so expect a call when she finds out,” Adam said, pushing himself off the chair carefully and putting his weight on the cane. Adora moved like she was going to help him but stopped herself.

“I will, and make sure you tell me if you need anything,” Adora said, standing to follow him to the door.

“It goes both ways sis,” Adam said and they exchanged a hug before Adam left.

Adora stood looking at her closed door for a moment before she returned to her desk and picked up her earpiece to call Mermista.

“Mermista, I need you to buy a car,” Adora said, clicking through the options.

“Aw boss, it's not even my birthday,” Mermista returned and Adora rolled her eyes.

“I’ll have the model for you tomorrow, I want to run the specs past Entrapta first,” Adora said, ignoring Mermista’s joke.

“What's the special occasion,” Mermista asked.

“Nothing to concern yourself with,” Adora said, clicking into another window. She could get Dee to buy the car for her, but Mermista asked far fewer questions than Dee ever would. It was a safer bet until the whole family knew the news.

“Ya know, if you were a man, I would think you were paying off a baby mama to keep quiet,” Mermista said as she returned to typing on her computer.

“Mermista,” Adora said in a warning tone.

“Yeah, yeah, got it. I’ll wait to hear from Entrapta,” Mermista returned to her polite business voice.

“Good,” Adora said, hanging up the connection before she returned to scroll through the options for a safe car for her brother's family. This is something she could do for Adam.

Chapter Text

Finn laid in their bed looking comfortable in all their pillows and blankets while Catra read a few stories to them to help them relax. Catra was just finishing the third storybook when Finn opened their eyes suddenly to look at Catra.

“Miss Catra?” they asked in a soft, sleepy tone.

“Yes Finn?” Catra responded as she closed the book and rested it on her lap.

“Are we friends?” Finn asked in a small shy voice and Catra nodded her head as a smile spread over her face.

“We can be, do you want to be friends?” Catra asked gently and they nodded their head as their ears flicked back uncertainly. Catra waited for them to continue.

“We should have a secret handshake,” Finn said and Catra grinned.

“I love that idea. We could incorporate a Magicat greeting in it,” Catra offered and Finn looked confused as they nodded.

“What's that?” They asked as they struggled to push the blankets back and sat up in their bed.

“Let me show you” Catra said, smiling as she moved closer down the bed. “So, this is a greeting reserved for friends and family, so since we are friends now, we can use it,” Catra explained and Finn listened carefully.

“Okay,” they said with their ears twitching with excitement.

“All we have to do is rub our cheeks together like this,” Catra said, leaning closer and rubbing her cheek to Finn’s and they giggled.

“That feels funny,” they said and smooshed their chubby cheeks in their hands to dispel the feeling.

“It does a bit, but it's how we show we are connected. By gently rubbing our scent on people we can show they are important to us,” Catra explained and Finn's eyes got bigger as they considered this.

“I like it, you should teach mama too,” Finn said as they laid back on the bed and snuggled into the pillow.

“Maybe you should teach her, you're practically an expert now,” Catra said, her face warming at the idea of rubbing her face against her boss. That seemed wildly inappropriate.

It was a little odd that Finn didn’t know a traditional greeting. She assumed Ms Grey must not have come from a traditional magicat family. Everyone was different with how they liked to show their heritage and some things resonated with different families differently. She wondered if she might have overstepped and hoped it wasn’t too much to teach Finn this.

“Yeah, I’ll teach her,” Finn said dreamily as they closed their eyes all too quickly they were snoring.

Catra tucked them into the bed and put the books away before she gently closed the door and went back to the kitchen. She had seen the cleaners earlier in the day but Catra didn’t want to leave the pots from dinner out for them to clean in the morning.

After cleaning the kitchen and trying to bond with Swifty with a tug of war toy. He was a very strong boy and almost knocked Catra over at one point. It wasn’t a very quiet game to play so she decided she should stop for the night.

She was getting tired and decided to go to her room to try and sleep. It wasn’t early but she was still responding to a message from Scorpia when she heard a sound in the front of the house.

Catra was on high alert as she checked the time and it was past one in the morning. Her insomnia had struck again. She got to her feet. She should check what the noise was and if it was her boss she could introduce herself. At least she had her claws if it happened to be a home invasion that somehow got past security.

She walked down the hall quietly and stopped in the door of the kitchen to see a very tall woman in a dishevelled suit. They had long blonde hair that shone in the light of the fridge before they closed the door and turned.

Catra wasn’t trying to scare them but she didn’t know what to say when they turned to face her. Catra’s eyes adjusted quickly to the darkness and she could see what goddess had magically appeared in the kitchen. Catra stared at the blonde in disbelief, wondering if she was actually dreaming.

The woman's eyes slid lower on Catra’s frame and Catra was reminded that she did not wear the pyjamas that were provided to her. Instead she had decided to wear her own sleepwear to try to trick herself into sleeping in a new place.

Catra’s protective instinct came back with vengeance as she felt her embarrassment blooming. She hid all that under a defensive stance as she squinted suspiciously at this Victoria's Secret model. Her new boss might have invited the woman into the home but Catra needed to do her security checks to make sure they were safe to be around Finn.

“Who are you?” Catra asked, her own state of undress making her feel even more aggravated, and when the woman didn’t respond straight away she felt the prickles of her temper flare. “Well?” she demanded.

“I live here,” the woman said, and Catra was shocked as she felt herself flush with embarrassment. She couldn’t stop her eyes from looking over the woman with the new information.

This is my boss…

Ms Grey was on her way to undress. Her clothing was neatly tailored to fit her like a glove but she had unbuttoned it in places in preparation for sleep. Ms. Grey wasn’t a magicat and she wasn’t married. Catra knew from the list of approved people who can visit Finn being restricted to Ms. Grey’s family. Clearly Finn’s dad wasn’t in the picture anymore.

“Adora Grey,” Adora said, offering her hand and Catra’s eyes snapped back to her face. She wasn’t sure how long she was looking but it was definitely too long. Ms Grey looked tired and Catra could see a slight colour on her cheeks as Catra looked at her crystal blue eyes. Stars save me…

“Nice to finally meet you, Boss, I’m Catra D'riluth” Catra quickly introduced herself. This was already the worst first impression she could possibly make. She wasn’t wearing the clothing she was provided and she accosted her boss right after she got home. This was so embarrassing.

“Adora is fine,” Adora said and Catra nodded. Was she being too formal? Everyone else on her payroll seemed to call her boss but maybe Catra had to be invited to the club.

“So, you’re my new Nanny,” Adora said, and Catra felt her nerves rising to the surface again. Catra felt judged and she hated that feeling, especially when it put her job on the line.

“Yes, that’s me, is that…that ok?” Catra asked, her voice sounded too high pitched and she felt her ears flick down.

“Yes, yes, that’s fine, welcome!” Adora said, her abrupt increase in tone did not reassure Catra that this was actually fine but she continued to stumble forward with the interaction.

“Thank you. I’m very happy to be here,” Catra said, looking for anything to continue this exchange.

Catra noticed Adora was holding a chocolate pudding cup she had seen in the fridge that she assumed was for Finn. “Are you eating a pudding cup for dinner?” Catra asked, unable to hold back a smirk. It was once a regular dinner for Catra, not by choice really, but by necessity when it got to the end of her paycheck. Not the chocolate ones though, she liked strawberry flavoured puddings.

“No, uh, well yes, it’ll tide me over till breakfast,” Adora said as she released Catra’s hand and Catra realised she had absolutely been holding that for an awkwardly long time.

Catra reached over to the light switch on the wall and the room flooded with light before Catra blinked to adjust her eyes. Catra felt the need to make up for the misunderstanding and awkward interaction. But more than that, Adora looked exhausted and like she needed a break. She could probably do with some good food and some sleep and Catra was more than happy to help.

“Don’t be silly, I'll make you something,” Catra said, walking to the fridge and looking inside. She had made a stir fry for Finn for dinner that they enjoyed so she grabbed the ingredients to make Adora the same.

“You really don’t have to do that,” Adora assured. Catra tried to keep in her laughter and only made an embarrassing snort as she turned to the island and unloaded an armful of ingredients. Catra was acting like a mess tonight.

“Really, it’s no trouble,” Catra reassured. Adora stayed quiet as Catra worked, only getting herself a spoon but otherwise just watching. She had been worried that Finn would be fussy considering their upbringing but she hoped that Adora would want the food she made her. The silence was getting to her and she threw Adora a grin to try to cut the tension she could feel building.

“Thank you,” Adora finally spoke softly, and Catra’s ears swivelled towards the noise. Her voice was like a bell and it made Catra feel fluffy and flustered all at once as her short furr reacted to the sound.

“It’s my pleasure,” Catra said, pausing to look at those blue eyes. Catra smiled but as Adora stared back at her she felt her cheeks colouring. She was not prepared for this level of intense eye contact. Adora hadn’t smiled once but she was still far too pretty to have eyes like that.

Catra quickly tossed the vegetables into a wok before making up the food for Adora. Adora thanked her again but Catra chose to wash the dishes so she would have something to do while Adora ate.

“This is really good,” Adora commented casually and Catra smiled to herself before she glanced over her shoulder.

“Thanks, I like to cook,” Catra said and Adora had a solemn look on her face for a moment as she finished her food.

“I used to enjoy it too, when I had more time,” Adora said, getting to her feet with her empty bowl.

“I can wash this, you look ready for bed,” Catra said, taking the bowl from Adora but noticing her little frown at the action. Adora nodded after a moment.

“Thank you, Miss Catra, welcome, again” Adora said looking down at her for a moment and Catra nodded her head as she whispered a small ‘thanks’ and smiled at her. Adora turned away abruptly before leaving the room.

Catra let out a long sigh once she heard the bedroom door close. She wanted to slam her head against the counter but it looked like real marble and she did not need the brain damage on her first day.

She finished the dishes for the second time that night before she rushed back to her room and grabbed up her phone to text Scorpia.

Catra: Scorpia!! WHAT THE HELL! YOU COULD HAVE WARNED ME.

Scorpia: Hey Wildcat, can’t sleep? Warned you about what?

Catra: ABOUT ADORA!?

Scorpia: Oh no, what happened?

Catra: What do you mean what happened! She’s so hot I almost had a heart attack. Then I almost threatened her in her own home!

Catra crawled into her big fluffy bed that felt like a cloud and wrapped the blankets around herself to wait for her response. She would call Scorpia but her room was right beside the master bedroom and she was not going to talk about her boss where she could be heard.

Scorpia: Uh, what? Can you catch me up? Did you not know what she looked like when you took the job?

Catra scoffed at the suggestion that anyone's looks would ever matter when taking a job. Catra just would have liked to know beforehand so she wasn’t so surprised.

Catra: NO, I didn’t think to CHECK, who would be that shallow?!

Scorpia: Well, most of the people who rejected your application…

Catra: YEAH, and I’m better than THAT.

Scorpia: Yes, you are. So, you think she’s attractive, what’s the problem?

Catra: She’s not attractive, I could deal with attractive; she looks like a goddamn Greek goddess. She’s going to melt all my brain cells and then I’LL NEVER BE A LAWYER.

Scorpia: I’m sure it's not as bad as you think. Maybe you’ll get used to it?

Catra: UNLIKELY

Scorpia: Sorry Wildcat. Did you find out what days you have off this week so we can try that sushi place?

Catra: Yes >:( Wednesdays and Saturdays. Sometimes Sundays but I will know week to week.

Scorpia: Perfect, I’ll book for Wednesday.

Catra: Fiiine. Just so you know, you were no help.

Scorpia: I know, but I’m not sure how to help you think Adora is less attractive. I’ve only met her once, and she seems lovely. I can’t sully her character for you.

Catra: Pity.

Catra flopped back in the bed and kicked her legs as hard as she could, dislodging the blankets and pillows as she tried to dispel the energy inside her body. She felt slightly better talking to Scorpia. She just needed to get all her thoughts out and now she could be professional. That would be fine.

[...]

Adora groaned as she stretched her tired body from her desk chair. It wasn’t very late but she had failed to sleep the night before and it was getting harder to focus.

She noticed a note on her desk written in Mermista’s immaculate handwriting reminding her to call Angella. She decided a small break would do her good. She checked the time and it was just after six. She should think about heading home. She had been guilty of utalising Catra’s help to get some more work done but she missed her kitten and she should try harder to sleep at a normal time.

“Adora~ It's so good to hear from you,” Angella said and Adora wasn’t sure when she clicked the call button on her phone.

“Hey Angie, how are you going?” Adora asked and Angella laughed.

“I’m fine, you know I’m retired, so I can’t complain. How are you?” Angella asked, putting emphasis on her question that felt loaded.

“I’m fine, things are going well at work and Finn is adjusting well to the new Nanny,” Adora rattled off while she closed out of her programs on her computer in preparation for leaving. Angella hummed curiously and Adora didn’t elaborate further.

“Yes, I actually wanted to talk to you about her,” Angella said and Adora frowned.

“Did something happen when you met her?” Adora asked, concerned that something had passed through her security checks.

“No, no, nothing like that, she seems like a lovely young lady,” Angella said and Adora sat back in her chair.

“What are you not saying?” Adora asked and Angella laughed softly.

“You’re so much like your father,” Angella said fondly and Adora felt a swell of pride in her chest at the comparison. She held great respect for her father and the accomplishments of his short life. Adora would be lucky to hold a candle to that man. Maybe one day. “I was just surprised because she is very young,” Angella said slowly and Adora nodded.

“Yes, well, she is doing her masters, and everyone has to start somewhere.” Adora defended and Angella laughed.

“Yes, I know. I’m not judging,” Angella said and Adora raised an eyebrow even though she couldn’t see it.

“Then what are you doing?” Adora asked and Angella sighed.

“Nothing, I am simply stating a fact, I was surprised that she was so young,” Angella said and Adora rolled her eyes.

“Yes, Adam advised me of your thoughts about my new Nanny already,” Adora said before she smirked. “Should I warn Opal of your interest in younger women?” Adora asked and Angella scoffed at her.

“Adora, don’t be silly. She is far too young for me. She must be around your age…” Angella said, her voice trailing off. Adora frowned.

“A few years younger I believe,” Adora corrected mildly and Angella tittered.

“Well, she's delightful. Speaking of Adam,” Angella transitioned, her voice coming through more stern and Adora braced herself to be chided.

“Wonderful news about the baby,” Adora interjected in an attempt to distract Angella from whatever crusade she was on.

“Wonderful news, I couldn’t be happier for them. Why did you buy Adam a car?” Angella was not to be deterred, it would seem.

“Their car is too out of date, they needed something safer,” Adora defended, keeping a level tone.

“Their car is only four years old,”

“Safety technology changes daily, that's practically ancient,” Adora continued.

“You really shouldn’t spoil him like that,” Angella scolded, getting to the crux of the issue.

“I disagree, dad would have done the same if he was still here,” Adora defended as she clicked a little too hard on her mouse to close the final window.

“He would have, but that doesn’t mean you have to do that. Adam can take care of himself,” Angella reminded and Adora rolled her eyes as she picked up her bag.

“I know that. But Adam is my brother, and I want to show my excitement for the news the way I choose to,” Adora said as she flicked off the lights as she walked to the elevator.

“I understand wanting to show him you care but you don’t need to buy such an expensive gift for that,” Angella said gently as Adora felt her shoulders slump. She knew that, but she wanted her brother and his family to be safe. The car she got him was top of the line for safety and security and she wanted that for him.

“I know, but I have the ability to, so I can provide,” Adora said firmly, and Angella clearly took that as the end of the conversation.

“Alright. Well, I’m having everyone over for brunch on Sunday, so clear your schedule,” Angella said and Adora smiled softly.

“Of course,” Adora agreed.

“Maybe you can bring the Nanny, then she can meet everyone at once,” Angella offered and Adora rolled her eyes.

“She doesn’t work Sundays, she will meet everyone eventually, during work hours,” Adora said and Angella puffed out a little sigh.

“Alright, well, I’m going to have some dinner, don’t be a stranger ok?” Angella said and Adora felt a little pang of guilt she always felt when she forgot to call Angella back promptly.

“Have a good night Angie,” Adora said.

“Same to you, love you,” Angella said, a smile in her warm tone that reminded Adora of home.

“Love you too,” Adora responded and hung up the phone. She shook her head to clear the guilt from the front of her mind and called her driver to take her home.

[...]

“What does Mama do for a job?” Finn asked curiously as they looked up from their drawing to watch Catra. Catra sat across from them on the coffee table trying to draw a flower. It didn’t look good but she had to admit she was kind of enjoying making something. It was a simple pleasure.

Catra flushed as she realised she should have expected this question and should have researched appropriately. Catra stalled by making a very intelligent ‘um’ sound stretching almost thirty seconds long and Finn just watched her as their ears and tail twitched with amusement.

“She makes prosthetics, for people who are injured,” Catra knows that much and Finn nods their head.

“So…she's a good guy?” Finn asked, they looked to be drawing someone wearing all white with yellow marks on their clothing.

“Yeah, she's a good guy,” Catra said confidently, and Finn nodded. Catra really didn’t know what else to say so when silence lapsed between them Catra went back to her drawing too.

“Like she-ra?” Finn asked suddenly and Catra looked up again curiously.

“Who’s she-ra, Finny?” Catra asked and Finn poked out their tongue as they tried to do a tricky part of their artwork.

“The reason mama is so strong,” Finn explained and Catra blinked slowly as she tried to process what that would mean. Adora looked like she was strong all on her own but maybe this was a reference Catra didn’t know.

“Yeah, your mama is really strong,” Catra agreed and Finn nodded happily before going quiet again. In the silence between them Catra could hear the loud snoring of Swifty who was laid behind Catra like a backrest. She reached out to scratch his fuzzy head and felt his tail thump against the floor happily.

Catra fell into a routine far too quickly in this job and it made her worry that leaving would be hard. She liked Finn and Swifty, but she had to remind herself how temporary all this was.

[...]

Catra had strict instructions for Tuesday nights. Finn had a weekly sleepover at their grandmother's house. Catra carefully packed an overnight bag for Finn and let them pick one toy to take with them before she dressed them in warm clothing for the trip.

The car was heated but once they arrived at the positively gigantic house Catra was glad she rugged Finn up a little for the trek to the front door. Finn was excitedly telling Catra about their favourite places to play and trying to point to them in the darkness. Catra could see them well enough and asked plenty of questions to keep them entertained.

Catra rang the doorbell and it sounded like the bells of Notre Dame with how loudly they chimed behind the solid wood door. Catra flicked her ears back as she reflexively put her hands over Finn's little ears. Finn looked up at Catra and giggled.

“Loud,” Finn said and Catra smiled at them.

“Very loud,” Catra agreed and the door pulled open slowly. There was a man standing there in a sharp black suit. He looked at Catra with some confusion before he looked down at Finn and smiled.

“Lord Finn, Welcome,” the butler opened the door and Finn ran inside. Catra smiled at the man.

“You must be miss Catra,” the man said and Catra nodded “Yeah, nice to meet you,”

“Rupert,” he offered.

“Rupert, thank you,” she said, following the excited child further into the big house. Catra rushed to catch up to them and grab their hand. Finn clearly knew where they were going and Catra let them lead the way.

They entered a beautiful room with a glass roof and completely covered in plants. Catra wondered what a room like this would be called as they walked further inside.

“Gramma!” Finn yelled, pulling out of Catra’s hold to run ahead again. Catra rushed after them and when she rounded a large fern she saw a tall elegant woman scoop them up.

“My love!” Angella said and Catra stepped closer but didn’t want to interrupt as Finn started talking quickly to their grandmother.

“Today I fought a dragon!” Finn exclaimed with excitement and started explaining how they rode Swifty into battle and fought valiantly to save the city.

Catra had played the dragon in this game and Finn had squealed and ran around the deck to hide from her as she stomped around. Swifty thought they were playing a different game and kept bringing Catra balls to play with. Catra managed to throw balls around and find Finn for an epic showdown. She ended up laying on the deck pretending to be dead while Finn monologued about how hard it was to be a hero and how it was exhausting work. Catra had listened and wondered where they had gotten that idea from.

“It's good to see you miss Catra,” Angella said and Catra smiled.

“It's good to see you too Mrs Moon,” Catra said and Angella laughed.

“Please call me Angella, or better yet, Angie,” Angella said and Catra smiled.

“Sure, I’ve got Finn’s overnight things, where should I put them?” Catra asked, sidestepping the name issue. It seemed to be a family trait.

“Rupert can handle that,” Angella said motioning with her hand and Rupert appeared beside Catra to take the bag. Catra hadn’t even noticed him follow them into the room. She laughed a little at her own surprised jump and handed over the luggage. “Do you like to garden?” Angella asked once the bag was whisked away.

“I’ve never tried, I wasn’t home often enough to care for an indoor plant,” Catra said and Angella smiled a little.

“You and Adora have that in common,” Angella said and Catra held her tongue. She was not going to comment on that.

“I’m sure she could pay someone to care for them if she wanted to,” Catra commented idly as she glanced around the room full of plants.

“Caring for them is what makes it so relaxing,” Angella said as she gave Finn a squeeze and put them down. Finn went straight to a little bench that seemed to be made for them and started playing with the plants there.

“I’ll have to take your word for it,” Catra said and Angella smiled.

“Would you like me to show you?” Angella asked and Catra’s knee jerk reaction was to say no. She really only had to drop Finn off and she had the night and tomorrow to herself. But the look on Angella’s face was kind and it reminded Catra so much of her mother, gently trying to help her find peace in something. Catra let out a little breath and nodded her head.

“Yeah, that would be nice,” Catra agreed and Angella beamed. She showed Catra how to transplant a few seedlings she had been growing and both Catra and Finn had their hands covered in dirt by the time they were interrupted.

“Angie?” A male voice yelled and Angella called back, quickly washing her hands as the new arrival approached. It took longer than expected but when he appeared Catra could see why. He was walking heavily on a beautifully made walking cane. His face was handsome and so familiar but it was pinched in pain. Angella went to him, closing the last few feet to hug him tightly.

Finn approached with much more care than they usually did, carefully hugging the man’s leg and he gently petted their head.

“Hey Finny, how are you?” The man asked.

“I’m good, I saved the city today,” Finn explained and the man grinned as Finn recounted the battle again and it got more elaborate.

“That's incredible, bud,” the man said and glanced up to see Catra watching curiously. She looked away to finish washing her hands. “Miss Catra, I presume,” the man said, and Catra quickly dried her hand to turn back to the new face. He was smiling brightly at her and Catra realised where she recognised him from.

“Mr Grey,” Catra said, walking forward to offer her hand to him. He shook it firmly and nodded his head in agreement.

“Adam, yes, the family resemblance is undeniable,” Adam said easily and Catra was reminded that Ms Grey was a twin.

“Definitely, they share their fathers cheeky smile,” Angella said and Catra smiled but couldn’t imagine the smile Adam had on Adora’s face. It seemed out of place.

“I should get out of your hair, it was great to meet you,” Catra said quickly, worrying she had overstayed her welcome.

“Nonsense, you should join us for dinner. Adora won’t be far away now,” Angella said.

“Angie?” Adora’s voice called from the other side of the room.

“Speak of the devil!” Angella said playfully and Adora’s laugh made Catra’s fur fluff up at the sound. She came around the large fern with an easy smile on her face, and Catra was struck by how much that smile suited her. That was until she saw Catra and her smile dropped.

“Miss Catra,” Ms Grey said and Catra felt herself flush as she realised she really overstayed her welcome.

“I was just telling Miss Catra she should stay for dinner,” Angella said, glancing between Adora and Catra.

“Angie, we talked about this. Miss Catra’s off tonight,” Ms Grey said. Catra was mortified that her employer and their mother had been talking about her. She wished she knew what they had said, but her mind jumped to wild conclusions all too readily.

“I appreciate the offer but I’m seeing my mum tonight,” Catra quickly excused herself, she needed to see her mum before she started to worry but she didn’t have plans with her tonight. She just needed to leave this awkward situation.

“Oh sorry, dear, next time. You are most welcome, if you would like,” Angella said and the glare Ms Grey was giving Angella was clear as day that Catra was absolutely not welcome.

“Thank you, I best be off, don’t want to be late,” Catra said quickly as she checked her pockets for her things ruffled Finn’s hair to make them giggle before she headed for the door. “Lovely to see you all,” Catra said, realising she had to pass the blonde to get out of the room.

“Ms Grey,” She said with a nod and Ms Grey wasn’t fast enough to correct her this time before Catra was out the door.

She walked down the hall, unsure of where she was going but doing it with the utmost confidence.

“Oh, Hey, you must be Catra,” A pink haired woman stepped into the hallway with a dark haired child at her side. “Uh, I mean Miss Catra,” The woman said looking down at the child beside her who smiled and nodded.

“Yes, that's me, I’m sorry, lots of faces to remember,” Catra said, offering her hand to shake. The woman shook her hand with a soft grip.

“Glimmer, and this is Angel,” Glimmer said and Catra nodded, she remembered those named from the family list.

“It's great to meet you both,” Catra said and Glimmer stepped aside from the door she had been blocking.

“Sorry, you looked like you were leaving,” Glimmer said and Catra looked towards the door she hadn’t considered going through which apparently was the way out.

“I think I might be a little lost,” Catra excused herself and Glimmer smiled.

“Angel, why don’t you go find Auntie Adora and Finn,” Glimmer said and Angel nodded their head and skipped off down the hall.

“I’ll show you the way out, it's a bit complicated,” Glimmer said motioning for Catra to go through the door she had just come from.

“Thank you, I should have paid more attention when Finn led me here,”

“It happens. How are you finding working with Finn?” Glimmer asked and Catra smiled at the thought of them.

“They have been really lovely,” Catra said and Glimmer hummed.

“They are the cutest. Adora is so protective of them, I’m surprised she finally settled on a nanny,” Glimmer said casually and Catra glanced at her. She wanted to ask questions to try to understand Ms Grey’s character better but this was her sister and there was no way Catra could say anything without Grey knowing. Catra didn’t need any more reasons for Ms Grey to hate her. They arrived at the door in silence and Catra thanked Glimmer before she left.

She took a car to the train station so she could go downtown to visit her mum. She was in need of a loving embrace and some home cooked food all of a sudden.

[...]

“She just stares,” Catra huffed. “I can feel her judging me every time I interact with Finn and I feel like I’m doing something wrong. What is she staring at!” Catra said in a flustered ramble while sitting on the floor of Scorpia’s house.

“I’m sorry wildcat” Scorpia said from the kitchen while she made them both tea. They had tried a new sushi place which had just opened with cheap bottomless sushi. Catra was full of sashimi and octopus balls and was now seriously considering a nap. But she had things to complain about first. Her boss being a hot, straight, mean girl was at the top of that list of complaints.

“I’m sorry to complain to you Scorpia. I know Perfuma is really excited about her mum dating Angella Moon and they are cute and all. I just don’t have anyone else to complain to,” Catra said, crossing her arms as Scorpia brought in the green tea to set on the coffee table.

“That's alright. I am happy to listen. I just don’t have much experience with Adora myself,” Scorpia said. She carefully, and a bit awkwardly, tried to sit on the floor across from Catra at the coffee table.

“I get that, I just need to vent,” Catra said and Scorpia carefully poured the tea for them both.

“I get it, vent away,” Scorpia said and Catra nodded. Suddenly unsure where to start.

“I get that she’s tired, but like, this is her kid, she should spend more time with them, she’s ALWAYS working,”

“She is a hard worker,” Scorpia agreed as she blew on her tea and carefully sipped the hot liquid.

“Yeah, it’s like…impressive or whatever…” Catra said, waving her hand and ignoring Scorpia’s grin. “I taught Finn a magicat greeting and the first time Ms Grey saw them use it on me she just watched us. She didn’t say anything but I feel like I’m walking on eggshells, like she won't tell me if I do something wrong, but I’ll just get a dismissal notice,” Catra said with a huff and Scorpia was shaking her head.

“Oh no, from what I’ve heard, Adora is very straightforward. She would tell you if you did something wrong,” Scorpia said confidently and Catra relaxed a little.

“Ok, well, that's a relief,” Catra picked up her tea to blow on the steam and attempted to sip it.

“She might just be watching you to see how you interact with Finn, like you said, she's busy a lot and it seems like she cares that Finn is happy,” Scorpia said and Catra considered the words as she sipped again.

“Ok, maybe that's true,” Catra said reluctantly and Scorpia smiled. This was why Catra liked to talk to Scorpia, she always wanted to see the best in people where Catra often judged quickly.

“Yeah, if she saw you do a magicat greeting with Finn maybe she was curious, not judging,” Scorpia said and Catra wrinkled her nose as she considered it.

“Maybe, but she barely expresses any emotion! She doesn’t smile or anything, she's so cold,” Catra said and Scorpia put her cup down carefully.

“Wildcat, are you sure you aren’t being a little harsh?” Scorpia asked and Catra put her cup down to cross her arms defensively. “You remember the last time you liked someone?” Scorpia asked and Catra scoffed.

“This is nothing like that!” Catra defended and Scorpia carefully continued.

“You made up all these reasons of why it wouldn’t work, or that she thought the worst of you until you stopped liking her,” Scorpia continued.

“That's not what happened! I saw the light,”

“You never even spoke to her,”

“I could see it on her face!”

“Catra,” Scorpia said softly and Catra raised her shoulders defensively. “Is this because you think Adora is pretty?”

“No, this is completely unrelated to that,”

“Are you sure? Because it seems like you’re doing your mind reading thing where you think the worst of them without speaking to them,” Scorpia gently continued and Catra had started shaking her head.

“No, I’m not doing that. I don’t have a crush on my straight boss, it's not happening,” Catra said firmly and Scorpia tipped her head to consider that.

“How do you know she’s straight?” Scorpia asked and Catra huffed.

“She has a baby, I’ve seen the pictures on the wall, she carried them,” Catra said firmly and Scorpia shrugged.

“That doesn’t mean she is straight, I’m sure I could find out for you,”

“Absolutely not, do not ask anything about her, I’m fine. I don’t have a crush on anyone. I might be mind reading. I will admit that, and try to work on it,” Catra conceded.

“Thank you Wildcat,” Scorpia said and Catra rolled her eyes.

“Now tell me what's new with you, I’m sick of my own voice,” Catra said, picking up her tea.

“Perfuma and I have been talking about going to a gardening club that her mum goes to so I can get to know her mum better,”

“That's awesome Scorpia, she’s going to love you,” Catra said and Scorpia blushed a little.

“I hope she does, things just feel so perfect with Perfuma, we talked about moving in together when my lease runs out next year,” Scorpia said shyly and Catra grinned.

“Wow, so serious, are you excited about that?” Catra asked and Scorpia was nodding long before she finished the question.

“Absolutely, we already spend almost every night together as it is, it would be nice to only have one rent to pay,” Scorpia said as her cheeks turned pink.

“Well I’m happy for you, you and flower girl are such a great couple,” Catra said and Scorpia smiled.

“Thanks wildcat,” Scorpia said positively beaming. One day Catra would like to have something special with someone, but for now, she was content to wait for the right person to come along.

Chapter Text

Catra was laying with her head on her mother's lap on their ancient sofa in the comforting warmth of her childhood home. It was a tiny apartment but it was cosy and high up overlooking downtown. Catra could feel her mother's purr vibrating into her body as she purred in return. She was so comfortable. The couch was old but loved and cared for, its cushions soft and its leather worn. There was no couch more comfortable in the whole world.

C’yra turned the page on the magazine she was reading and the sound made Catra’s ear flick lazily. She was still feeling annoyed by her interaction with Ms. Grey, but she felt miles better with a home-cooked meal in her stomach and a good cuddle. The mood was set with the soft mumbles of the radio drifting through the air as jazz music warmed the cool breeze from the open window.

Catra hadn’t told her mother she was coming over, but C’yra saw it as a pleasant surprise. Catra spent the whole night dodging questions about her Masters program and offering few details but plenty of enthusiasm until they lapsed into comfortable silence.

“Do you think I’m too old to get a Sugar Daddy™?” C’yra asked and Catra laughed.

“Mama, you don’t want a sugar daddy. What would you need that for?” Catra asked as she pushed herself into a sitting position so she could look at her mother's face. C’yra looked alot like an older version of Catra, with her hair cropped short and her coat slightly darker than Catra’s. She was beautiful and Catra only hoped to age so gracefully. C’yra rolled her blue eyes.

“I deserve to be spoiled in my old age,” C’yra defended as she turned the page in her magazine with a shrug and Catra laughed again.

“You do. When I’m a lawyer, I’ll spoil you, mama,” Catra offered and C’yra smiled.

“Thank you, darling,” C’yra said, looking back at her magazine. “Ugh, this poor girl,” C’yra said sympathetically and turned the page so Catra could see it.

“The press have been all over her this week, and you know why?” C’yra asked and Catra’s eyes widened when she was met with Ms Grey’s face. Her face was partly obscured by her hand but it was undeniably her. Ms. Grey even had the audacity to look amazing in the jet black suit she was wearing. Catra swallowed and looked at her mother's face.

“No idea. Why?” Catra asked. She could guess if Ms Grey was as rude to others as she was to Catra she would probably make a lot of enemies quite easily.

“Making an anonymous donation to a children's hospital,” C’yra said with a barked laugh of disbelief. “Someone from the hospital leaked her donation to the media and apparently it's a crime to donate without wanting recognition for your good deed,” C’yra said with a huff, and Catra just stared at her.

Ms. Grey donated to a children's hospital? And she didn’t want the recognition? That didn’t align with what Catra knew of the blonde at all.

“What's wrong darling? You look like you’ve seen a ghost,” C’yra said, putting her hand to Catra’s forehead. Catra shook her head to rattle her brain back into action.

“Sorry, that's just so shocking. Why would they care?” Catra asked and C’yra shrugged.

“I’m not sure, I guess they expected her to make the donation in her name, or the company's name. But they should just leave her alone,”  C’yra said and Catra felt guilt settling in her stomach, not for the first time, that she couldn’t tell her mother about what was happening in her life right now.

“I agree. I better get going, I don’t want to get home too late,” Catra said and C’yra nodded.

“Of course, how are you enjoying the dorms on campus? Can I visit?” C’yra asked and Catra forced a smile. Guilt silently eating away at her insides.

“They are good, they don’t let family visit though, it's too disrupting for the other students,” Catra lied and C’yra nodded her head.

“That's understandable, here, take some cookies back for you and your friends,” C’yra said, getting up to return to the kitchen.

“Mama really, you don’t have to,” Catra said, following her mother into the kitchen to find her pulling out a container for the treats.

“Nonsense, I want to. Will a dozen be enough?” C’yra asked, packing the cookies into her tupperware container carefully and Catra smiled.

“That's perfect, thank you Mama,” Catra said and C’yra beamed. They exchanged a quick hug and cheek rubs before Catra was on her way back to the train station.

She confident about walking late at night in her old neighbourhood. The buildings were apartments that were occupied by business people and small families. This was the business district so there were no big houses but the hustle and bustle meant lots of family owned shops and stores on every street.

It was something she never saw in the neighbourhood of the penthouse apartment the Grey’s live in. The shops around them were all expensive boutiques or chain stores. Nothing unique or home made and she had to walk so far if she wanted to get a coffee from an actual coffee shop.

She had been walking for only ten minutes and she had already passed three cafes, this was a different world downtown and it was one she was sorely missing. Her old apartment wasn’t far from here and her feet wanted to take her home. That wasn’t her house anymore though, so instead she hopped on a train heading back uptown.

Once she found a seat on the almost empty train she pulled out her phone.

Ms Grey had surprised her with her reported actions and Catra wanted to know what else she had missed.

[...]

It was strange coming into the penthouse and knowing Finn wasn’t there. Swifty groaned loudly as he lifted his huge body off his bed and walked down the hall to greet her. The horse sized dog was growing on her already. She pet him and scratched his back to make his leg kick before she went further into the house. Her companion followed behind her as he wagged his tail.

Catra looked around and headed to her room to grab her laptop. She had used her phone so much that it had run out of battery on her way from the train station so it was a miracle she had managed to find her way on the unfamiliar path to the house.

She grabbed her laptop and decided to go back into the living room to spend time with Swifty. He stood at the door obediently as she got her laptop and plugged in her phone to charge.

She went back to the couch and sat down and Swifty settled at her feet. She opened another search for Ms. Grey, this time focusing on the company itself. She had found a lot of information about the billionaire being very charitable but she wondered if her company could stand up to the same standards.

Catra was deep in her research until she heard the click of the front door closing and she looked up to see Ms. Grey walking down the hallway. She looked tired. She always looked tired but also so immaculate. It was almost unfair how she could look so effortlessly flawless while also looking so worn out.

Catra glanced at the time, it was almost midnight.

She must have gone back to work after dinner. Catra thought idly as she glanced back at her boss. Adora looked surprised to see Catra as she spotted her on the couch and paused at the end of the hallway.

“Miss Catra, how was your evening?” Adora asked and Catra smiled. Swifty was deep asleep on top of her feet keeping her toes warm and he didn’t stir at the sound of his carer’s voice.

“It was good, what about you?” Catra asked politely. She wasn't sure she had judged Ms Grey correctly now that she had read about all the good both her and her company were doing.

Not only did Greyskull enterprises produce the most advanced biomechanical prosthetics on the market but they also had an extensive program which included upgrades for children as they grew into adults. So their parents didn’t have to pay for a new prosthetic every year. Not to mention Adora Grey herself donated regularly to charities and possibly even more often anonymously, according to the media. She wondered if maybe Scopria had been right that Catra was judging Ms Grey so harshly because of Catra’s attraction to her.

“It was fine,” Ms Grey said in a level tone before running her hand through the silky gold threads of her hair. She looked almost nervous, or as nervous as someone as powerful as Ms Grey could be. “I apologise for Angie’s overstepping with her invitation to come to dinner. I hope you weren’t feeling pressured into spending your personal time with us,” Ms Grey said as Catra blinked at her owlishly. She did not expect that to be the words that came out of her mouth.

“Oh, no, it's fine. I would have stayed if I didn’t have plans,” Catra lied, feeling awkward that she had made up plans so that she could flee.

“You are most kind, but don’t let Angie talk you into something,” Ms Grey said and Catra laughed softly at the idea that anyone could out-stubborn her.

“I wouldn’t do something I didn’t want to do Ms Grey,” Catra reassured and Ms Grey’s eyes seemed to soften. Catra must have been imagining it.

“Good, I will trust you to speak up if you are uncomfortable,” She said and Catra smiled.

“I definitely will,” Catra assured and Ms Grey nodded her head. “I had a question about Finn, if you have time?”

“Of course, what is it?”

“Is it ok for me to teach Finn Magicat stuff? Or would you prefer I didn’t?”

“I would like Finn to know more about their heritage,” Ms Grey assured.

“Would you like me to run it by you first? I know I showed them a greeting without asking, but I don’t want to overstep,” Catra said, smiling a little awkwardly.

“I trust your judgement on what is appropriate for them to learn for their age,” Adora said and Catra was surprised she was given so much freedom. Adora seemed like a woman who liked to control things around her and Catra felt a little special to have that trust placed in her.

“Thank you…” Catra said softly, thinking about all the things she had learnt about Ms. Grey tonight.

“It's fine. I will retire, goodnight Miss Catra,”

“Goodnight, Ms Grey,” Catra said and Ms Grey disappeared into the dark hallway towards her room. Catra wondered for a moment why Ms Grey called her Miss Catra when Finn wasn’t here but she assumed it must have been a habit. It was only Catra and Ms Grey in the house tonight. Was that weird? She guessed would have to get used to the idea because it was going to happen at least once a week for the next year.

Catra bit her lip before she gently removed her feet from under the sleeping giant and crawled over the back of the couch to avoid disturbing him. She rushed to her room and closed herself inside while she tried not to think about Ms Grey for the rest of the night.

[...]

It was a lazy Saturday afternoon and Adora could hear Finn laughing outside. Catra was off duty for the weekend but seemed completely content to laze around the penthouse with them on her day off.

The weather was still cool overall but the day was warm and the sun was finally out. Catra had been sitting on one of the chairs on the deck while she read for most of the morning. Finn had been good to not disturb her much but they were excitable and Catra was never upset when they came over to talk to her or show her something. Adora made sure her weekend was free of work to spend time with Finn but she hadn’t expected Catra to be around.

Adora reminded herself to check what Dee had bought Catra because the shorts and shirt she was wearing didn’t seem like Dee’s style. Adora couldn’t police what Catra wore around the house on her day off, but it was a little distracting.

Adora had more important things to worry about, her left hand twitching unusually as she reached to put sugar in her own tea cup. She had offered to make Catra a tea and the way the brunette smiled when Adora asked had made her stomach fill with butterflies. It was an unreasonable reaction for such a simple action.

Adora wasn’t certain, but it felt like something had changed and Catra’s smiles had started to reach her eyes. Maybe she was settling into the house and feeling more comfortable now. She had crossed paths with Catra awake late at night more than once when she herself had finished working late and Adora wondered if Catra struggled to sleep just like Adora did.

Catra was an avid reader and she had been making her way through the millions of books at her disposal that Adora didn’t have time to read. Adora was glad to see that they were being used but she hoped to have time to read them one day as well.

Adora turned to carry the two mugs back outside when her left hand spasmed strangely and against her will her prosthetic gripped the mug too tightly and simply crushed it. The ceramic rained down with the hot liquid inside onto the clean floor with a loud clattering smash. Adora stood in reminiscence of her tea which had splashed on her clothing and frowned down at She-ra as she opened her hand to drop the rest of the mug. There was no reason for her prosthetic to have such a powerful grip, it was meant to be calibrated to match her other arm but clearly it needed tuning. This was why Adora didn’t trust She-ra to hold Finn because she didn’t want to accidentally hurt them if it malfunctioned.

“Are you ok?” Catra asked, coming into the room with concern. Adora felt her cheeks warm at the attention.

“Yes, fine, it just slipped,” Adora said dismissively. Catra put some house shoes on and grabbed the mop and broom to tidy the mess.

“Did it burn you?” Catra asked and Adora shook her head. “I’ll clean this up and you go change,” Catra said quickly as Adora stepped out of the puddle of tea and away from the glass before she removed her wet house shoes.

“I can clean it up. I’ll be right back,” Adora said, not waiting for a response as she went to her room to change into another outfit. She put on a button up shirt, a pair of light coloured jeans and another pair of slippers before she went back to the kitchen.

Catra had finished cleaning up the mess by the time she returned and was remaking the tea that She-ra had destroyed.

“I offered to make you tea, not the other way around, Miss Catra,” Adora pointed out and saw Catra smirk as she turned to face her. Catra’s eyes flitted over her clothing quickly before she looked away.

“It’s the thought that counts,” Catra said, turning to offering Adora her tea. Adora took it with her right hand and nodded.

“If you insist,” Adora said softly and Catra smiled, her pretty eyes crinkling on the edges mischievously.

“I do, now come sit in the sun, I’m sure you can use it,” Catra instructed and despite the fact that Adora burnt easily, she was inclined to follow that instruction.

“Very well,” Adora said and Catra beamed before she headed back outside and settled back into the chair she had been sitting on.

Finn was sitting and drawing at the table while Catra was reading and Adora elected to throw a ball for Swifty which he produced from somewhere. It was a little slice of tranquillity she hadn’t felt in quite a while. Nothing to think about except where she should throw the ball next.

The tranquillity was short lived when Adora’s phone rang loudly, startling the two magicats at the table. Adora was sure she had put it on silent for work calls but her phone always rang out loud for the family.

Adora answered the call and before she could even say hello she heard Frosta’s voice loudly.

“Let me in!” she said and a loud thud followed, which echoed down the hallway.

“Hello Frosta, how are you today?” Adora said getting to her feet to walk back into the house and towards the front door. “Why certainly, you can come over, how soon can you be here?” Adora continued when she was greeted with silence from her youngest sister. Adora opened the door to the angry thirteen year old who looked completely unimpressed with her sarcasm. “Frosta! You had a good time, come in,” Adora said, opening the door wide to let her in. Frosta rolled her eyes dramatically and walked into the house. Adora closed the door behind her and followed her down the hall.

“Does Angie know you’re here?” Adora asked as Frosta threw down her bag, which looked like she was packed for more than an afternoon visit.

“We had a fight, where’s Finn?” Frosta asked.

“Outside, what did you fight about?” Adora asked, following Frosta outside again. Frosta paused when she saw Catra and Catra got to her feet to greet the newcomer.

“Do you have a girlfriend?” Frosta asked, looking at Adora. Why did her entire family seem to think that Catra was her girlfriend instead of the Nanny she had clearly told them all she had hired. Yes, Catra was her type, Adora had a glaring weakness for short, dark haired women, but her family didn’t need to point that out. Adora was already struggling enough.

“She’s my Nanny” Adora said at the same time Catra said “I’m the Nanny,” and then laughed cutely.

“Catra,” Catra said, stepping closer to offering her hand to Frosta to shake. Frosta eyed it suspiciously before she took the offered hand and they shook.

“Miss Catra,” Adora corrected and Frosta rolled her eyes.

“You must be Frosta,” Catra continued and Frosta nodded.

“Yeah. I don’t want to talk about it,” Frosta said rudely and walked over to hug Finn who had been waiting excitedly.

“Frosta,” Adora scolded and Catra smiled.

“It's fine. No talking, got it. Would you like a drink?”

“Can I have a Soda?”

“Sure, I’ll be right back,” Catra said and Adora sighed softly and went back into the house with Catra.

“Nothing with caffeine,” Adora warned Catra and she nodded before she opened the fridge.

“Is mineral water ok?” Catra asked curiously and Adora nodded.

“That’s fine. I need to call Angie to make sure she knows Frosta is here, can you watch them for a few minutes?”

“Of course,” Catra said, heading back outside while Adora made her call. Angie picked up on the second ring.

“Adora, how are you?” Angie said.

“I’m fine, are you aware that Frosta is at my house?”

“What! Where is her security detail?”

“Not sure, she arrived alone,”

“This is ridiculous, I sent her to her room!”

“I’ll bring her back later tonight but I wanted you to know before you realised she was gone,”

“Thank you, I am so sorry she is adding stress to your weekend, I can come get her right now,” Angie offered and Adora waved her hand even though she couldn’t see it.

“It's fine, she must want some space. I’ll bring her home after dinner,”

“Thank you, Adora,”

“See you later,” Adora hung up and took a breath. She was relieved that Frosta felt comfortable to come to her when she ran off and she didn’t want to scold her. She didn’t want her to not come here, but she wanted to know the reason she thought she needed to run away. This was a delicate situation.

Adora walked back outside to see that Catra was back reading her book and Frosta was sitting with Finn while they were drawing. Catra was looking at her book but her ears were pricked forward to listen to Frosta’s rambling about school.

“Mum just doesn’t understand. It’s so stressful and I need to have a strong campaign to be anywhere close to competing with Remington! He brought an elephant to school! Why can’t I bring a tiger? Just a little one,” Frosta was saying and Catra giggled as she put her book down to give Frosta her full attention.

“Maybe something a little less deadly? I mean, I would hate to see something as majestic as a tiger in a cage just so people can look at them,” Catra said and Frosta seemed to think about this.

“Maybe you’re right, that would be sad, maybe I could do something cooler,” Frosta said as she thought about it. Frosta made a gasping noise as Adora sat down silently at the table again.

“Can you make me a robot servant?” Frosta asked suddenly, and Adora rolled her eyes as she smiled a little.

“That would be a lot of work, I imagine it would take longer than the time you have,” Adora said and glanced at Catra who chuckled.

“I guess,” Frosta said, pouting.

“Well what about a petting zoo? Lots of cute little animals, have you ever seen a cow?” Catra asked dramatically and Frosta’s eyes went wide.

“No! I haven’t I bet no one has, what else do petting zoos have?” Frosta asked curiously.

“Well I saw one at the fair a few years ago. They had rabbits and goats, alpacas, ducks,” Catra said and Frosta grinned.

“I love ducks, they are such jerks,”

“If you love ducks you will love goats, they are also kind of jerks, but their babies are cute,” Catra said and Finn giggled.

“Can I come see the petting zoo?” Finn asked curiously and Frosta nodded.

“Yes! I’m sure Miss Catra can bring you by to see it,” Frosta said and Adora leaned back on her chair to consider the trio as they talked about their plan. Adora thought she would have to do something to rectify the situation, but it turned out she wasn’t needed at all.

[...]

Catra got a text from Ms. Grey in the afternoon to warn her that “Mara is coming over. Don’t let her in my study,” so at least Catra knew to expect her. She wondered why Mara would want to go into the study but made a note to stop her if she did attempt it.

Catra heard the doorbell late in the afternoon and went to answer it. She checked the security camera that was in the elevator room to confirm that the woman at the door was indeed Mara.

Mara had a darker tan than the Grey twins and her hair was a darker blonde but they otherwise looked incredibly related. Mara was wearing a pair of jeans and a black singlet so her muscular arms and back were on display. Catra wasn’t surprised by now that another sibling of The Grey Skull Moon family was incredibly attractive, whatever genetics they shared was unfairly godlike. Catra opened the door to Mara as Finn ran to the door to greet her.

“Finny!” Mara said crouching to grab the blonde wrecking ball that jumped at her. She laughed as Finn excitedly tried to hug her and rub their face against Mara. Catra smiled at the adorable display and glanced at Mara when she heard her make an unreadable noise.

“Hey, I’m Mara,” Mara said smiling charmingly and offered her hand to Catra to shake. Catra shook it firmly and smiled pleasantly.

“Catra, the nanny,” Catra introduced herself and Mara nodded her head.

“Nice to meet you. When Juliette told me that Adora got a Nanny I didn’t really believe her. But here you are,” Mara said, looking Catra over.

Catra prickled immediately at the appraisal, expecting a comment on her appearance, but Mara just shook her head and focused back on Finn.

“Yes. Here I am. Would you like to come in?” Catra offered and Mara nodded her head.

“I’m just passing through, I have a shift soon,” Mara said as she stepped inside the house with Finn, who whined that she wasn’t staying. “Sorry buddy, I will stay for longer next time,”

“Where do you work?”

“I’m a firefighter,”

“Oh, well thank you for all you do to save peoples lives,” Catra offered and Mara looked a little surprised. Catra’s mother always said it was important to thank those who had thankless jobs.

“Oh, you’re welcome,” Mara said, looking a little bashful.

“Would you like a drink?” Catra offered and Mara smiled. She was much more free with her smile than Ms Grey already and Catra wondered what it would take to make her boss smile so readily.

“Actually, I needed to grab something from Adora’s study,” Mara said and Catra raised an eyebrow. She was already curious why Ms Grey didn’t want Mara in her study and now her interest was piqued.

“Oh? What did you need?” Catra asked, and Mara shrugged casually.

“It would be easier to just grab it, rather than explain it. I don’t want to bother you with it,” Mara said, avoiding the subject and moving Finn from one hip to the other. Catra kept her pleasant smile.

“You’ve got Finn, I’m sure I can find it. What is it?” Catra offered again and Mara looked a little embarrassed.

“Oh, no, that's ok,” Mara said softly and offered Catra to take Finn. Catra took them and set them on her hip easily.

“Well, Ms Grey told me not to let you in her study so you can either tell me or I can get security,” Catra said in the same pleasant tone.

“Ok, damn. I can see why Adora hired you,” Mara said looking at Catra with a lopsided smile that was not at all charming. “Angie’s birthday is coming up and Adora won't tell me what she got her. She claims I would never have thought to get it for her so I wanted to know what it was, but Adora was already a step ahead,” Mara said and Catra was relieved it wasn’t a more nefarious reason. Catra smiled genuinely.

“Well now I really can’t let you in there. I wouldn’t want to ruin her fun,” Catra said, a little surprised Adora could be so playful with her siblings. Catra had seen a glimpse of it at Angie’s house but she wished she could see more.

“I guess you’re right,” Mara said with a grin as she offered to take Finn back and throw them into the air to catch them again.

“I have thirty minutes before work, let's go play outside,” Mara said and Finn squealed with excitement as Mara ran outside with them to play.

[...]

Adora absently clicked her pen while she read over the document on her screen. She focused on her task as she relished the completely silent room. She could hear the muffled voices of Mermista outside her door and another person she didn’t recognise before her door clicked open.

Mermista didn’t speak as she approached Adora’s desk, her heels clicking on the floor as she crossed the room. Adora got to a natural stopping point in her document at the end of a paragraph and looked up at Mermista.

Mermista was holding one of the many gossip magazines that Adora’s PR person read to keep Adora’s image in good regard. Mermista had a small entertained smile on her lips which only spoke trouble for Adora.

“Yes?” Adora prompted and Mermista smiled wider as she put the magazine down on the desk open to the page in question. Adora expected to see a photograph of herself doing something mundane as usual but she didn’t expect to see Finn on the page. Not only Finn but Catra and Swifty. Juliette was nearby but the photo was taken downtown and both Catra and Finn had ice cream. Finn laughed as they tried to feed Swifty ice cream from a little cup that he licked messily. Adora frowned and looked back at Mermista, looking for an explanation.

“Sorry Boss, Netossa tried to get the story pulled but they ran it anyway,” Mermista said and Adora frowned deeper. Adora was adamant about keeping Finn from the media and it annoyed her greatly that Netossa had been unsuccessful in keeping their image from the press. Adora grabbed the magazine and turned it around to look at the image.

“This is ridiculous, why would they want a picture of Finn?” Adora asked and Adora glanced at the story they ran with the picture.

“Not Finn, it seems Catra has caught their attention,” Mermista said, her voice level and calm.

“That's even more ridiculous, why would they care about her?” Adora asked, her eyes widening as she registered the words she was reading.

“Just curious about the similarities she shares with Finn mostly,”

“What similarities! They are both Magicats, that is the only similarity,”

“I respectfully disagree with that, Boss. They have surprisingly similar colouring with dark ears and tails with a lighter body colour, not to mention that Catra has one blue eye,” Mermista said and Adora glared at the article.

“Those similarities are arbitrary at best. I have blue eyes. This feels racist,”

“That's the media for you. I’m just saying that there is enough there that people will speculate,”

“Speculate on what?” Adora asked as she looked up at Mermista.

“On who Finn’s other parent is,”

“That's ridiculous, I was with Melody when I conceived them,” Adora said, trying to keep her voice level at the mention of her ex fiancee.

“Yes, and Melody is cisgendered and you kept your insemination a secret when you conceived”

“Because it's none of their business! It was a private matter,”

“True, but the media has been curious for all these years so they are going to speculate because that's how they sell a story,”

“So they believe Catra is Finn’s other mother?” Adora asked, her stomach tightening at the thought. What would Catra think when she found out?

“Seems so, it's going to be hard to stop the sharks circling this little morsel,”

“Regardless. Get Netossa. I won’t allow this ridiculous magazine to showcase Finn like this,” Adora said, throwing the magazine onto her desk as it skidded on the surface from the force.

“Right away, Boss. Make them suffer,” Mermista threw over her shoulder as she turned to leave the room. Mermista was always happy to see the paparazzi whipped into shape.

“I intend to,”

Chapter Text

Adora stood in her walk-in closet as she stared at her suit collection longingly. In her hands was the only skirt she owned. The skirt was fashionable, tight and pinstriped with a matching blazer. Adora possessed very few blouses, but each matched this skirt specifically for days like today.

Adora had a meeting with an investor that knew her father personally, and this man had very traditional beliefs when it came to clothing and gender roles. Adora always prioritised comfort when it came to her clothing, which was why she rarely wore skirts. She was far more comfortable in a suit with her arm mostly covered than she was in a skirt and blouse which made her feel exposed. She knew she could push the investors' beliefs and wear what she wanted but it was hardly worth the fight and sometimes it was easier to fit the mould than to break it. Especially on such a small issue.

She undressed from her pyjamas and dressed in the knee length skirt and matching blouse. She considered herself in the mirror before she glared at her reflection. Societal expectations were stupid. She put on her blazer and adjusted it so it would lay flat. Her left hand spasmed and her fingers slipped off the button as she attempted to close the jacket.

“Do you mind?” Adora asked She-ra but was greeted with silence in return.

She had a long day today. She had a meeting with the head journalist of that stupid magazine to ensure they wouldn't take any more photos of her child. She had another meeting with investors that would take most of her afternoon to finalise the details of their new launch. Finally she would spend her evening with Entrapta to complete her nerve calibration and resolve the issues she was having with her arm.

Adora left her room and headed for the kitchen to get a coffee. The day was new and it felt like hours before the world would rise to greet it. Finn wouldn't be up for a while yet so Adora had some time to work. Finn had been sad to discover that they weren’t going to work with her today. Her meetings meant her day was too busy and boring to bring Finn along. Angie agreed to come get them in the morning instead so Catra still got a full day off despite Adora's change in plans. 

Adora walked past the bathroom in the hall when the door swung open. Steamy warm air fell from the door and an earthy scent filled the hallway. Adora thought she had been alone this early in the morning but when she turned to face Catra, the brunette looked equally surprised to see Adora.

“Good morning,” Catra said, clutching her pyjamas to her chest, she was wearing jeans and a t-shirt that were equal parts holes and cloth. Adora glanced over her outfit, aware that Catra was doing the same to her. Adora felt exposed in this stupid skirt and turned to continue her way down the hallway.

“Good Morning, Miss Catra,” Adora said, departing into the kitchen and setting to work making coffee.

It was a few minutes before Adora heard Catra walk into the kitchen to join her. Adora turned to Catra to ask if she wanted coffee and paused. Without Catra holding her pyjamas to her chest Adora could see the extent of her top which had a ripped hole right over her cleavage. Adora wasn’t sure how long she paused on that view but Catra looked uncomfortable so Adora clearly looked for too long. She turned away quickly.

“Coffee?” Adora asked.

“Yes please,” Catra said and Adora set to make two cups. Over the weeks they shared a space Adora knew little things about Catra she hadn’t expected to learn. Like how Catra liked her drinks (black), the books she liked to read (romance), the kind of music she listened to (rock), what she liked to wear on her days off (things that made Adora’s mind wander) and it felt strangely intimate to have this knowledge about her.

“Here you go,” Adora said, offering Catra her cup of coffee with her right hand. Catra accepted it and smiled.

“Thank you,” Catra said and Adora nodded as she lifted her own coffee to sip. Adora had gotten up early to work before Angie came to get Finn but now it felt rude to retire to her study. “Oh, Finn was talking about Ballet classes yesterday, they said they would like to try them again,” Catra said suddenly and Adora nodded.

Finn had been enrolled in a mother and child class when Finn was three and they had lost interest reasonably quickly. Adora had been a dancer all through school and into her early twenties when she had Finn but she never wanted to force her love of Ballet on her child. She was happy to hear they wanted to give it another chance though.

“I will get Mermista to restart the classes. They are on Wednesday night so you will get another night to yourself,”

“Oh, I don’t mind that. Ballet seems so complicated. I've never tried it,”

“Would you like to join us?” Adora offered before she could really consider herself.

“Oh, I couldn’t afford that, I’m sure,” Catra said, waving her hand.

“If you are interested, I will cover the expenses,” Adora said and felt a bloom of excitement to share something she loved with others.

“Are you sure I wouldn’t be imposing?” Catra asked, watching Adora’s face carefully.

“I would like to check with Finn, but I’m sure they would like to have you there,” Adora said and Catra smiled brightly before she nodded.

“I would like that,” Catra said and looked down at her coffee. Adora could have sworn there was colour on Catra’s tanned cheeks. Adora took a breath to settle herself again, aware that she had gotten excited by the topic.

“Speaking of Finn, please keep them around home for the time being. I am working on updating their wardrobe to deal with the Paparazzi taking their photo but it will take time,” Adora said and Catra nodded.

“Of course, Boss,” Catra said and Adora’s heart picked up again.

“Adora, please,” Adora corrected and Catra just smiled at her with a nod. “I should get to work,” Adora said, feeling nervous suddenly.

“Sure, I won't keep you,” Catra said, taking her coffee to the couch to return to her book. Adora watched her for a moment, noticing the playful twitch of her tail as she walked. Adora shook her head and headed for the study. Her long day had only just begun.

[...]

The look of true excitement on Ms Grey’s face was going to haunt Catra’s dreams. It was an endorphins rush to her bloodstream at the sight of her excited blue eyes. Catra hadn’t really considered that Finn and their mother shared the same eyes until now. Ms Grey was alive for just a moment before she was able to regain her control and Catra wondered what Ms Grey thought would happen if she let go for just a moment.

Was this Catra’s first authentic glimpse of ‘Adora’? Adora was the woman her family knew and Ms Grey was the business woman who ran a billion dollar company, the one who was powerful, in control and more than a little intimidating.

But Adora seemed so soft and playful, someone who was kind, giving and loving. At least that's what Catra had seen of her. 

Later in the day Catra received a call from Angella asking if Catra could bring Finn to her house because she was running late for the pickup. Adora had left the house a few hours ago so Catra wasn’t really doing anything but sitting with Finn while they played with Swifty.

Angella asked Catra to pick something up from Adora’s secretary before she came by the house so now Catra was on a mission with her tiny sidekick in tow.

Finn was thankfully very receptive to hand-holding, so it made Catra’s life a lot easier when taking them out into public. She remembered Adora’s warning that morning about keeping Finn out of view. So she used a scarf and a pair of glasses to hide them as they travelled, up until they entered the Greyskull building.

Entering the lobby was an experience every time because of the sheer exuberance of it. The external walls were floor to ceiling windows and there was a glass staircase that hung at least two stories above the security desk. The woman behind the desk looked up with a smile.

“Welcome to Greyskull enterprises, how can I help you today?” The woman asked and her eyes slid down to Finn who was still dressed incognito. Finn was smiling like the little charmer they were, and the woman seemed to recognise them as she beamed in delight.

“Finny? Is that you? How are you today?” She asked. The woman was all bright smiles and warm colours with red curly hair that made a beautiful mess on top of her head. She was plump and dark and very cute. Catra could appreciate a good-looking woman.

“Hi Miss Starla, I’m doing very well today,” Finn said in a professional, polite tone which only made the woman coo. Finn’s tiny suit they insisted on wearing to visit their mother made them look like a perfect little businessperson.

Catra with her hand in Finn’s approached the desk and smiled.

“My name is Catra D’riluth, I’m here to pick up something for Angella Moon,” She said.

“Oh yes, you’re the new Nanny,” The woman paused to look at Catra’s outfit, definitely not business or tidy on her day off. “Ms Grey asked for a key card for you,” She said, grabbing an orange key card on a loop. “You have to wear it while in the building. It will let you up to her office but it won't open any doors you shouldn’t have access to. If you have any trouble, let me know,” Starla said with a friendly smile that looked only a little forced suddenly.

“Thanks,” Catra said as she took the key card and slipped it over her head.  The loop crushed her curls and she had to release Finn's little hand to get her hair out.

“Just scan it on the card reader to the left and don’t let anyone come in behind you. Everyone has to scan in,” Starla reiterated and Catra nodded.

“Got it, ready to go buddy?” Catra asked and Finn offered their hand which Catra took and they headed to the security door. Catra swiped her card and the door opened. Once she and Finn went through, they were both scanned head to toe by a red laser before the door slid close behind them.

Catra walked to the lobby elevator and pushed the button to go up. While they waited, she looked around, her eyes drawn to a painting of the CEO on the back wall. Ms Grey was a hard woman to ignore and she was stunning. It was just a fact.

A fact that made Catra want to be sarcastic and maybe a little mean to hide the way her stomach filled with butterflies at the sight of her. Catra hated crushes so much because every time she had one she became such a cliche mean lesbian who was afraid of showing affection. Which was hard to navigate when the focus of her attraction was her boss who she needed to be professional with.

Finn was humming a song they had heard in the car and now only knew two words for as they bopped to the tune. Catra crouched to take the scarf and glasses off Finn and as their handsome face came back into view Catra smiled.

“You get your looks from your mama, huh?” Catra said and they grinned widely at her.

“Mama says I got it from my father,” Finn said as the elevator dinged and opened. The people inside all greeted Finn with warm smiles and waves, looking at Catra with curiosity as the bright orange key card practically glowed against her t-shirt. Catra smiled at them and stepped inside. She knew from her last visit that the elevator had a key card swipe and she slid the card between the sensor and pushed the top floor.

“Hold the lift!” someone asked and Catra put her hand out to stop the doors as a man with a crop top walked into the lift. He had short curls, chocolate skin and the brightest smile Catra had ever seen. His eyes went to Finn, the most important person in this building. “Finny!” They said Finn made excited, tappy feet as they hrld their hands up to be picked up.

“Unkebow!” Finn said and squealed in delight as they were scooped up. Catra flattened her ears against the loud sound in the small room as the two laughed together.

“Which floor?” Catra asked and the man looked away from the humming blonde to smile at Catra.

“Oh,” He swiped his card and pushed 13 before he grinned at her. He adjusted the bundle in his arms to offer his hand.

“I’m Bow, you must be Catra,” Bow said as she took his hand and shook it firmly.

“That’s me, the nanny,” Catra said and the elevator dinged so Bow returned Finn to the ground. Bow stepped out onto a level that looked incredibly technical and a little smoky. He put his hand on the door as he turned back to speak to Catra. “It’s great to meet you, we are all really excited you’re here,” Catra frowned.

“We?”

“The family,” Bow clarified and Catra laughed. They sounded like a mob family every time someone called them that.

“Ohh, Uncle Bow,” Catra said as clarity settled on her. He grinned.

“That’s me,” he said and looked at the security door of the level as maniacal laughter could be heard through the glass. “Have a fun day! Bye Finny!” He said before releasing the door. He swiped into the security door and the laugher got louder and the smell of smoke burnt her nose. Finn was waving at Bow so Catra carefully pulled Finn behind her to ensure they weren’t irritated by the smoke. They just looked up at her and hummed adorably.

Catra got out of the lift with Finn and led them through the security doors of the top floor.  Mermisa was at her desk outside Ms. Grey’s office and she looked up with a smirked as they approached.

“Morning,” Mermista said, looking at Catra’s outfit.

“Morning, Angella said you have something for her,” Catra said and Mermisa picked up a thick envelope and offered it to Catra. Catra grabbed the envelope but Mermisa didn’t let it go. Catra looked at her with confusion.

“You look hot” she mouthed silently and Catra blushed. “Did you need to see Ms. Grey before you go?” Mermista asked, her eyes twinkling with delight at Catra’s reaction.

“Nope, no reason to see her, thanks for this,” Catra said, taking the envelope and leading Finn back towards the elevator.

Traffic was terrible but Finn seemed content to sing to the music in the car despite not knowing any of the words. Catra was listening to them while she considered her day off. She could see how the lines of her job and her personal time could get blurred. Angella wasn’t even her employer and she was asking Catra to do things for her. Maybe she should have pushed back when she asked Catra to do this. Surely Angella had her own assistant who could have helped.

Catra took the scarf and glasses off Finn one final time and put them in her bag to use again later. It was an easy enough disguise she could use until Ms Grey had Finn's wardrobe sorted.

[...]

Catra had been alone in the house for hours now, laying on the couch with Swifty (who wasn’t allowed on the couch usually, but was a great cuddler) while she read. Scorpia was working today so Catra decided to laze around the penthouse and enjoy one of Ms. Grey's books.

She glanced outside to realise that the sun was already setting. Time was flying by and her day off was almost over. She went about making some dinner and feeding Swifty before she considered trying out the spa bath. It would be fun to enjoy the heated water but she would also be embarrassed if Ms. Grey came home and saw her in her bikini.

That idea was thrown out as soon as that visual came to mind. Catra did not need to follow that storyline any further than that. Her mind was not allowed to wander when it came to her boss.

In the silence of the room, Catra heard the phone Ms. Grey had provided start to ring. It was strange for that phone to get a call but it might be about Finn. If Ms. Grey was unabailable, it made sense to call Catra. Catra crossed the room and saw Ms Grey’s contact flashing on the screen.

“Hello,” Catra said, answering the call.

“Are you the nanny?” A woman's voice asked. She certainly didn’t sound at all like her boss.

“Yes?” Catra asked unsurely.

“Catraaa” Ms Grey’s voice said in the background.

“Are you Catra?” the voice asked.

“Yes, who is this?” Catra asked, a little annoyed and confused why Ms Grey wasn’t speaking to her, herself.

“My name is Entrapta. Could you please take one of the cars from the basement car park and come to Greyskull Enterprises. I will upgrade your access so you can come into my lab to pick up Adora,”

“Wait, what's going o-” the call cut out and Catra stared at the phone for a moment. She was still wearing casual clothes so she just grabbed her bag and a jacket before she took the elevator down to the lobby.

“Good evening Miss D’riluth, How are you today?”  One of the security guards greeted her.

“Good, how are you?” She asked with a smile.

“Right as rain, what can I help you with?” he asked.

“Can you bring Ms Grey’s car up for me?” She asked and he nodded his head as he got to his feet.

“Certainly, did you want the Volvo or the Jaguar?” he asked casually and Catra’s eyes widened.

“I’m sorry, did you say Jaguar?” Catra asked, blinking rapidly as she tried to process the information she was given. The man nodded.

“Yep, it's a classic, is that the one Ms Grey wanted? She hasn’t taken it out for a while,” the man continued and Catra briefly considered when she would ever get a chance to drive a car like that.

“Yes, that's the one,” Catra said quickly as she tried to keep her excitement in check. She didn't want to seem overeager. When she stepped out onto the street with a red vintage Jaguar parked waiting for her she could barely contain her squeal.

Catra wasn’t really into cars, but she knew what this one was. It was money. It was something young Catra thought she wanted for her life, all the money she needed to spend on anything her heart desired. She knew better now, but she also wasn’t one to pass up an opportunity to indulge a little.

Catra was a little disappointed that the drive over to Greyskull was in the later part of rush hour and the car wasn’t really given the room to move. But she enjoyed her drive nonetheless.

Catra arrived and asked security where she was meant to be going before getting into the elevator. She swiped her pass and pushed the button for the 13th floor but the elevator didn’t move. She looked at her pass and swiped it once more before she pushed the button again.

The elevator doors closed this time and Catra listened to the dramatic violin music playing as the elevator accended.

The elevator doors opened to a glass panel doorway which Bow had come to earlier in the day. This level seemed to be sealed airtight. Catra looked for the swipe pad for a moment before she swiped her keycard. It glowed green and the door locks clicked into life as they opened the floor to her. She pushed open the door but this level seemed to be completely empty of life. It was after hours so it made sense that no one was here, but surely Ms Grey was here for Catra to pick her up.

Catra wondered, not for the first time, why Ms Grey didn’t just call her car service to take her home, it would have saved a lot of time and energy, mostly Catra’s.

A soft glow of light towards the back of this floor was like a bright light in the inky blackness. Catra weaved around desks and machinery as she approached the lights. 

Catra could hear the soft whispers of voices as she came closer. She was reassured that she was in the right place when she heard Ms Grey speaking to the voice she heard on the phone.

“PFF. I’m fine, you’re overreacting,” Ms Grey’s casual tone surprised Catra as she paused. Suddenly eavesdropping.

“I disagree, you are overreacting. The nerve blocker I gave you should not have had this substantial effect, unless you were lying about your sleep habits,” Entrapta responded.

“Who needs sleep? I’m busy,” Ms Grey rebutted.

“You are difficult to converse with when you are like this,” Entrapta continued and Ms Grey snorted.

“Then take me home! I want to get out of this stupid skirt,” Ms Grey complained and Catra tried not to smile.

“You know I can’t drive,” Entrapta said.

“I can drive,” Ms Grey perked up.

“You absolutely cannot drive in your condition,” Entrapta rebutted and Ms Grey just made a whining noise in response. Catra tried not to laugh but it was cute, ok?

Catra finally approached the door, knocking on the metal carefully.

“Come in,” Catra pushed the door open and saw a woman with purple pigtails and large goggles on which made her look a little like a bug. “Oh, the Nanny,” Ms Grey was sitting on an observation table, swinging her legs casually, she looked a little flushed. Catra had to shake herself, one thing at a time.

“Hi, I’m C-”

“Catraaa” Ms Grey cut her off and waved at her with a dopey look on her face that was, well…startling to be honest.

“Umm, what's going on? Is she ok?” Catra asked, looking back at Entrapta who nodded.

“Yes, she will be fine. If it hasn’t worn off in a few hours please let me know. But otherwise, she is all set to go home,” Entrapta said and Catra just blinked at her. Catra deserved more than that for an explanation and it caused her temper to spark. Her tail lashed with her frustration which caused an annoyingly cute giggle from the blonde.

“Ok, I need more than that, what did you give her? Should I look out for any other side effects? How many is a few?” Catra asked, wondering if this woman might have given her tranquillisers or something else designed to help with stress. Ms. Grey certainly didn’t seem stressed now.

“Oh, we were doing a calibration on her arm, which is standard procedure for She-ra once per month. I gave her a nerve blocker, because the stimulation of the nerves can be overwhelming. She has reacted unpredictably to the blockers. I theorise that it's because her sleep patterns have been inconsistent and her body is experiencing higher than usual exhaustion, therefore, she is now 'floppy',” Entrapta said and Catra nodded her head. She was pretty sure she understood all that.

“So, she’s drunk?” Catra asked.

“High,” Entrapta corrected and Catra nodded her head.

“Great, I have some follow up questions,” Catra said, putting her hands together and motioning to Entrapta.

“Sure,”

“Great, what’s a ‘she-ra’?” Catra asked the most glaring question.

“Her arm,” Entrapta said, talking a little slower, which only annoyed Catra more.

“Ok, why does her arm have a name?” Catra asked.

“Because it's a prosthetic and we name all of them,” Entrapta said like it was obvious.

“Ok,” Catra said, looking over at Adora who was watching them talking while she hummed to herself. Catra focused on Adora’s arms and she honestly couldn’t tell which one was meant to be prosthetic. “Ok, last question, and I mean no offence. Why did you call me?”

“Oh, Adora asked me to,” Entrapta said and Catra looked back at Ms. Grey, who looked flushed again. Was...was she blushing?

“Uhh, ok, why?” Catra said, not really sure who she was asking. But Entrapta was the one who answered.

“Well, usually I would call Angella for these matters, but according to her calendar she has tickets to take Finn to the ballet tonight so Adora told me to call you,”

“Oh…ok, so I just need to take her home?” Catra reiterated.

“Yes, it's probably best to not leave her alone for at least three hours,” Entrapta said and Catra nodded. She could agree with that, if Adora was drunk Catra would not want to leave her alone either.

“Sure, I wasn’t doing anything anyway,” Catra mumbled. She could just park Ms Grey on the couch and finish reading her book while she slept this off.

“Great, use the service elevator at the east end of the building, it will take you to the parking garage without going through the lobby. Adora would prefer to not be seen like this by any of her employees.” Entrapta said and Catra nodded.

Catra turned to Ms Grey who looked shy and Catra realised that this was Catra’s second time meeting Adora today and, more so than the last time, this felt like a privilege. This was a rare glimpse into the vulnerable part of Ms Grey and she wasn’t about to abuse the trust she had put on her.

“Alright, ready to go?” Catra asked and Adora put her arms out like she expected Catra, a 5’2” woman to pick up her 6 foot ass.

“Oh no princess, you can walk,” Or Catra could be an asshole to a hot girl because of who she was as a person. The name slipped from her inner voice to her outer voice before she could stop it. She was about to apologise to her boss for the stupid nickname when Adora giggled and kicked her feet.

“I can’t! I’ll fall,” Adora laughed and Catra had to hand it to her. That did seem very likely.

“Ok, I’ll help you down, but you have to walk after that,” Catra said, not really sure she should be trusted with the task of keeping her boss upright.

Catra approached Adora and went to grab her left side but Adora moved away, with real fear flashing across her face.

“No, not that one. That's my bad side,” Adora said, and Catra tried not to read too much into that as she moved around the right side of her to help her off the table. As Adora was scooting to the edge of the table, Catra turned to ask Entrapta another question and realised she was gone. Catra was on her own.

Adora slid off the table and landed on the floor like a newborn giraffe and almost dragged Catra down with her. Catra caught herself by grabbing the table and pushing Adora against it.

Adora, in her sexy little skirt, was now pinned against the table by Catra and reacted by tipping her head back and laughing. She was completely unabashed by her laughter even as she snorted.

“You dropped me!” Adora complained and Catra couldn’t help but laugh.

“You have like, 100 pounds on me!” Catra shot back and Adora snorted as she looked down at Catra and it was absolutely unfair how stunning this woman was. Even snorting and high off her face she was just so pretty. A gay woman could only take so much.

“Are you calling me fat?” Adora asked in a scandalised whisper, which caused Catra to grin.

“Of course not, it's all muscle, I’m sure,” Catra said, holding Adora’s arms as she moved away from her to add some much needed space between them.

Maybe Catra was overdue to start dating again, she clearly needed an outlet for these feelings and this crush was a very inappropriate outlet that needed to stop.

“It is, I bet I could lift you,” Adora challenged and Catra tried to fight the blush that came to her cheeks at the way her stomach swooped at the offer.

“Not when you’re high off your face, now come on,” Catra deflected. 

“Girls night!” Adora declared with glee as she flopped against Catra again. Catra put Adora’s right arm around her shoulders and helped the wobbly woman walk through the offices.

Adora was a complete pain as she tried to pick things up off the desks as they walked by. Small contraptions, doodads and almost every stack of sticky notes she saw. Catra, somehow having the patience of a saint, just gently took the items from her boss and returned them to the desks.

It was Adora’s right, as the owner of this company, to take anything she paid for from someone's desk but she doubted Adora needed so many sticky notes. Maybe she did, Catra really didn’t understand what Adora did in her days being the boss.

Catra did manage to find the service elevator as the sign glowed like a lighthouse for them. Luckily for them, the service elevator only went to the ground floor and the other technical floors so when Adora pushed every button in the elevator it only opened eleven times instead of over sixty times.

Catra was not at all charmed by this ridiculous version of Adora who lit up every time the door opened and then pouted when it wasn’t their floor like it wasn't her doing. Adora was incredibly warm as she leaned into Catra, her weight heavy but not uncomfortable. It tempted Catra to snuggle closer to the warmth, but that was wildly inappropriate.

When they finally reached their floor, Adora seemed to find her feet as she saw her own Jaguar and ran up to it.

“Oh my god, I have a car just like this one!” Adora said excitedly and Catra laughed.

“It is your car,” Catra explained and Adora gasped excitedly.

“OH! I’ll drive. We can get snacks,” Adora said, bouncing slightly in excitement.

“Oh no, you get in the passenger seat, I’m driving,” Catra said and Adora whined loudly, sounding just like Finn when they didn’t get their way.

“But… snacks” Adora said and Catra rolled her eyes. She really wasn’t sure how Adora was going to react to being denied and she really didn’t want to find out if she was a crier while she was intoxicated.

“Fine, we can stop for snacks, but you have to follow my instructions, can you do that for me?” Catra said firmly.

“Yes, sir!” Adora said even saluting like a dork.

“Good, now, get in the passenger side and buckle up,” Catra said and Adora nodded before following the instructions.

Intoxicated adults and kids weren’t so different it would seem.

[...]

Catra tried to get Adora to stay in the car but when she refused Catra had to use Finn’s disguise on Adora. Catra knew enough about the Grey Skull Moon family to know that appearing intoxicated in public would be a big problem for their image.

Catra did what she could with the scarf and sunglasses but they would have to be quick to avoid detection. Which would have been fine if Adora wasn’t trying to touch everything.

“Catra look, they have soup,” Adora said. It was the third time Adora had picked up a random item in wonder. Catra had to remind herself that Adora didn’t do her own shopping so this was probably a whole new world for her.

“They sure do,” Catra said, taking the can of soup out of her hand and putting it back on the shelf. Adora frowned at the can.

“I don’t like soup,” Adora admitted seriously and Catra laughed.

“What? How can you not like soup?” Catra asked, looping her arm through Adora’s to get her to finally go to the snack aisle. Catra forced down her reaction to the solid muscle of Adora’s arm that she felt through her blazer and keeping a straight face like a poker master.

“It's just flavoured water and it's not very filling,” Adora said and Catra smiled.

“Well, what is your favourite food?” Catra asked curiously and Adora seemed to be thinking very carefully as they strolled through the shop. Catra wasn’t really sure where the fancy grocery stores were uptown, so she ended up at one closer to her old house that she knew had good snacks. Hopefully that meant they wouldn't run into anyone who knew Adora here.

“There are too many foods to have a favourite,” Adora finally admitted, and as soon as they entered the snack aisle and Adora could see all the sugary treats she looked absolutely delighted.

“I really like chocolate,” Adora amended, like it was a secret. “Finn can’t have it, so I don’t buy it,”

“You can buy it for yourself,” Catra offered and Adora shook her head.

“It feels like a waste if I can’t share it with them,” Adora said and Catra rolled her eyes.

“Which chocolate is your favourite?” Catra asked as they stopped in front of all the options.

“The plain one is fine,” Adora said, picking up a plain block of chocolate.

“That's not what I asked, which one is your favourite?” Catra asked and Adora looked a little flushed. Catra enjoyed making Adora blush so much that it felt illegal. Having the power to fluster a woman like Adora was something Catra didn’t know she wanted.

“I like the one with nuts,” Adora said softly and Catra plucked the plain bar from Adora’s hands and replaced it with one with nuts. Adora gave a small smile and Catra grinned at her.

“See, that wasn’t so hard,” Catra said and Adora nodded. Adora didn’t seem convinced but that was ok, learning was a process.

“What are you going to get?” Adora asked,

“Normal gummy bears and sour gummy bears so I can mix the bags together,” Catra said immediately as she walked over to her snack of choice. Adora followed as she giggled.

“Why?” Adora asked and Catra turned to her.

“So I don’t know what to expect. I like to live dangerously,” Catra said, wiggling her eyebrows ridiculously. It made Adora laugh in the exact same way it made Finn laugh. It was a relief that they were so similar. Maybe Catra knew more about her boss than she had originally thought.

“I can’t share my snack with you, I should get something else,” Adora said suddenly and Catra stopped her from walking back to the chocolate section by grabbing her arm.

“You don’t have to share it with me, I’m not sharing my bears” Catra said and Adora pouted.

“Fine, you can have some of mine, but you don’t have to give me yours. It doesn’t have to be an equal exchange,” Catra said and Adora was looking at Catra’s hand on her arm. Catra moved her hand away, feeling awkward and took Adora’s chocolate.

“Come on, I’ll pay for these and we’ll get you home,” Catra said and Adora nodded her head a little.

[...]

Adora had gotten a little quiet after the shop and she didn’t put up a fight when getting into the house.

Once she was inside she kicked off her shoes by the door, which she never did, and walked down the hall in her stockings. Catra was impressed she didn’t slip on the floorboards and followed her into the living room.

“Swiftwind!” Adora shouted with excitement as she got down on her knees. “When did you get so small?!” Adora asked in shock as Swifty excitedly accepted the pets. Catra just watched in confusion as Adora laid on the floor to play with her dog. Catra didn’t understand Adora’s comment because Swifty was in fact a very large dog.

Catra sat on the couch to watch Adora and Swifty interacting. It seemed to be a battle between Adora trying to pet him and Swifty trying to check if she was ok. After a little while of that back and forth Swifty seemed content to lay in his bed and watch how things unfolded.

Adora was laying on the floor on her back just watching the roof. Catra would have been concerned if Adora wasn’t casually wiggling her fingers and toes as she laid there.

“I can’t see the stars,” Adora said.

“That's because we are inside,” Catra said, successfully not laughing but unable to stop the smile that came to her face.

“oh… can we go outside?” Adora asked curiously.

“Sure, but it's pretty cold tonight. Are you up for that?” Catra asked, Adora wasn’t really dressed for the chill in the air tonight.

“We can take blankets,” Adora said.

“True, do you need help getting up?” Catra said, getting to her feet.

“Yes please,” Catra came over to stand beside Adora as she sat up. Catra offered her hand to help her up and Adora looked at it for a moment before she muttered something under her breath so quietly that even Catra didn’t hear. She accepted Catra’s hand and struggled to get up in her tight skirt that hugged her thighs.

“What was that?” Catra asked and Adora looked her dead in the eye before she repeated herself.

“I said I’m so gay,” Adora said and Catra’s eyes widened before she choked on nothing.

“Excuse me?”

“I said-”

“No, I heard you.” Adora nodded and started to walk outside. Catra followed her, grabbing the blanket off the couch as she passed.

Adora found a spot to sit on the deck and got comfortable.

“What do you mean you’re gay? Are you coming out right now?” Catra asked, “I mean, Isupportyouandthankyoufortellingme,” Catra rushed through, panicking that she wasn’t doing this right.

“Coming out? Did you think I was straight?” Adora asked and Catra got her head together enough to put the blanket over Adora as she laid down.

“Well…yeah! What about Finn?” Catra asked settling a respectable distance away from Adora, which still allowed them to share the blanket. Adora looked up at the stars which were absent due to all the light pollution in the city and pouted.

“What about Finn? …I love them so much” Adora said, her voice cracking with emotion. Catra was a little worried Adora might start crying but she blinked her eyes and the emotions were gone. “They are the best thing I’ve ever done,” Adora said seriously and it was heartwarming to hear.

“They’re a great kid, you’ve done so well on your own,” Catra said gently in hopes that she wouldn’t cry.

“It’s my fault I was alone,” Adora said with a frown. Catra waited for Adora to explain further but she didn’t expect what she chose to say next. “She doesn’t hold a candle to you though,” Adora said, Catra blinked at her, confusion clear on her face.

“Who?” Catra asked, completely lost at the direction of the conversation. Adora was going from one thought to the next and Catra wondered if she was keeping any to herself right now.

“You are the prettiest flower I have ever seen. The memory of your radiance will brighten my days until the end of time.” Adora said in a serious whisper, her eyes sliding from the heavens to focus on Catra’s face. Catra’s cheeks burned as she blushed violently. “Where’s Finn?” Adora continued like she didn’t say anything at all. Catra was wholly unprepared for her boss to be an intoxicated flirt.

“With their Grandmother,” Catra said, trying to move the focus away from herself.

“I’m glad. I don’t want them to see me like this,” Adora said, making it sound like this was the worst thing she could show her child. It would have been irrisponsible if Adora didn't have another adult around to make sure everyone was safe, but it wouldn't be the end of the world. 

“It's not so bad,” Catra said gently and Adora started glaring at the sky.

“I should have known better. When Melody didn’t want to carry Finn. She knew I would be forfeiting my career, and she didn't care,” Adora said and Catra was trying to piece together the information she had. Was Melody Finn’s other parent? “I wanted to believe she had my best interests at heart and what she wanted was what she said, but I was wrong. I was stupid and in love and she was a liar,” Adora said coldly as she stared, glassy eyed into the dark night sky. Catra let out a slow breath, watching the cold expression on Adora’s face.

“I think that's the meanest thing I’ve ever heard you say,” Catra said gently, and it was true. In Catra's experience, Ms. Grey was firm, but she wasn’t unkind, Catra knew that much.

“Emotions are a distraction. Like you,” Adora said seriously and Catra laughed in surprise. She wasn’t expecting her night to include getting rizzed by her boss but she couldn’t deny it was flattering. Adora knew her way around a compliment and it was nice to know that on some level Catra wasn’t suffering her crush alone.

“Like me?” Catra prompted.

“Yes,” Adora said softly, not looking at Catra.

“I’m a distraction?” Catra prompted again, wondering how brave Adora was feeling.

“Yes, especially those clothes you wear that Dee didn’t buy you,” Adora said and Catra deserved a medal for not smirking at her comment.

“You don’t like my clothes?” Catra asked, looking down at her ripped t-shirt and jeans. It wasn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but Catra liked it.

“I do, they suit you very well,” Adora said and Catra looked back at her to see her watching Catra.

“Well thank you. I like your suits,” Catra offered in return, feeling the full weight of Adora’s gaze on her.

“Ha, thank you. I hate this skirt,” Adora admitted dismissively.

“I gathered, why did you wear it?” Catra asked, laying down on her side to watch Adora.

“To a certain extent it's expected of me. I am a woman, so I should wear skirts,” Adora said, frowning deeply.

“No offence, but that's a stupid reason,” Catra said and Adora scoffed before she rolled to face Catra, closing the distance slightly. The distant warmth of Adora’s body made goosebumps break out over Catra’s skin.

“I know, but it's hard to break. I wear suits for comfort and I suppose I also use them to hide,” Adora sighed and Catra nodded. She lowered her voice now that they were only a foot apart.

“What are you trying to hide?” Catra asked curiously, she wondered if she should stop asking questions. Let Ms Grey have her secrets and not expose her when she is feeling vulnerable. But Adora kept talking and Catra wanted to hear it all.

“All the cracks, the imperfections, but mostly it's harder to tell this isn't real when all you can see is the hand,” Adora said as she raised her left hand above her face to look at it before she let it fall again. Even this close Catra could barely tell it was different. The technology was amazing.

“You don’t have to hide those things you know,” Catra said softly and Adora frowned.

“That's ridiculous. I run a company so I can’t show weakness,” Adora said, rolling onto her back again to look at the sky.

“That might be true at work, but it's hard to keep that up all the time. Do you ever get time to switch off? Maybe take a holiday?” Catra asked, watching Adora’s profile.

“Of course, I’m going to the snow for my birthday,” Adora said quickly like an excuse. 

“Yeah, but I’m coming with you and Finn because it’s a work trip. You can’t count that as a holiday,” Catra mentioned and Adora frowned. Catra knew that trip was also at least four months away. At this rate Adora was going to burn out before she ever reached the snow.

“Well…where would you like to go?” Adora asked and looked at Catra again.

“Oh no, this is about you. What is your favourite holiday destination?” Catra asked and Adora sighed.

“I admit I haven’t been on one for a while. Melody picked our last holiday and before that father picked family holidays,” Adora said, her eyes getting sad at the reminder of her father.

“Sounds like you haven’t had much of a chance to explore what holidays you like on your own,” Catra prompted and Adora nodded.

“I guess not,” Adora said before yawning.

“Ready for bed now?” Catra asked and Adora nodded sleepily.

“Great, let's get you into your jammies,” Catra said, getting up and helping Adora to her feet. 

To Catra’s relief, Adora had recovered enough from the medication to change without needing any assistance. Catra helped her turn down the bed and tucked her in before she flicked off the lights. She was ready to leave when Adora had a quiet request.

“Can you lay with me for a while?” Adora asked and Catra smiled.

“Sure, just a few minutes though,” Catra said and Adora nodded. Catra went to the other side of the bed, laying on the empty pillow. There was at least four feet between them given the size of the bed but Catra still felt like this was overstepping. She would do the same for Finn if they asked, so this was no different. Adora just needed company.

“Thank you, I don’t sleep very well on my own,” Adora admitted before she yawned again. She was laid on her back with her blankets perfectly flat over the top of her.

“That's understandable. I’m a bad sleeper as well,” Catra offered and Adora nodded.

Catra rolled onto her side to watch Adora’s relaxed profile as she settled into the giant bed.

“Thank you, for taking care of me,” Adora mumbled sleepily and Catra smiled.

“You say that now, but just wait till you get the bill,” Catra joked and Adora snorted.

“I’ll pay as much as you want,” Adora mumbled and Catra felt awkward. She didn’t mind taking care of Adora and it wasn't about the money. But if they wanted to keep this professional, then paying Catra for her time was part of the deal.

Catra didn’t respond to Adora’s comment and Adora’s breathing settled out into an even rhythm.

Catra was feeling exhausted now that she was lying down but she was also worried that Adora might not be recovered enough for sleep. Catra settled in, blinking her eyes aggressively like it would help her stay awake. She watched Adora for a little while to convince herself that she would be ok.

Catra didn’t remember falling asleep but she woke up with a start as motors for the blinds buzzed to life. Catra had never heard them in her own room before since her curtain was manual. She groaned softly and as she moved she realised she wasn’t under her blankets and she was freezing.

Catra blinked open her eyes and suddenly remembered where she was. She must have fallen asleep when she was watching Adora.

Adora looked like she was still sleeping, thank the stars. Adora’s breaths were even and her face was relaxed. Neither of them had moved a single inch during the night. Staying at their own allocated edges of the bed.

Catra carefully lifted herself off the bed as silently as she could and snuck out of the room. She took the time to close the door behind her as quietly as she could and thanked the stars she didn’t wake Adora in the process. That would have been mortifying. 

Chapter Text

Adora had a habit of waking each morning before the curtains whirled to life in her room, and today was no different. Her body was stiff like she hadn’t moved all night but she felt rested and she was sure she hadn’t slept so well in years. She blinked her eyes open to look into the darkness and her entire body froze.

This had to be a nightmare, and her paralysis demon laid across from her. Why else would there be the shadow of a woman laying on the other side of the bed. The shape was familiar and yet so foreign that for a moment she thought it was Melody. Her eyes adjusted to the darkness as her panic rose but she started to see the differences in the dim light.

Melody wouldn’t be caught dead wearing distressed jeans or something as simple as a t-shirt. Adora’s ex wouldn’t wear her hair wild, and certainly wouldn't purr the way Catra was right now. Each breath came out as a contented rumble as Catra slept. Her face partly hidden in a pillow and her hands tucked against her chest to keep her warm. She wasn’t under the blankets.

Adora had no memory of the night before. Which was a concern. She might consider that something inappropriate happened but they were dressed and on opposite sides of the bed. Her body filled with dread as she tried to piece together the previous day. The last thing she recalled with any confidence was her appointment with Entrapta to calibrate She-ra.

Did something go wrong with the medication? Maybe Adora finally had that stress-related heart attack her doctor had warned her about.

Catra’s purring stopped as she nuzzled into the pillow and the motors for the curtains whirled to life. Adora quickly closed her eyes as she realised Catra was waking up. She tried to keep her face relaxed and her breathing even as she heard Catra moving.

Once Adora heard the soft click of the door closing she let out a sigh of relief and opened her eyes. She put her hands to her forehead.

What the hell happened last night?

[...]

Adora groaned and rubbed her head. Her attempts to force the memories from the night before were giving her a headache.

“Why don’t I remember anything?” Adora asked Entrapta as she pulled back the cover of Adora’s arm to plug in her machine.

“Need I remind you of the importance of being truthful to people administering medication,” Entrapta said, clicking on the screen of her device until it started running diagnostics.

“I didn’t lie,” Adora denied and Entrapta shook her head.

“You said you’d been sleeping,” Entrapta said and Adora shifted on the cold steel bench she was sitting on. She did not want to spend her morning lectured about her health.

“That's not a lie, I have slept,” Adora said.

“Not the normal amount for anyone,” Entrapta said seriously.

“I'm ok,” Adora said, glaring at Entrapta, who was completely unfazed by her hard stare.

“You should speak to your doctor about sleeping pills,”

“I don’t want to take sleeping pills, if Finn needs me in the night then I won’t hear them,”

“You have a Nanny now, ask her to check on them,”

“No, I’m not going to leave comforting my child to someone else. I’ll find another way of sleeping,”

“You need a holiday, at least to take time away from work and get some actual rest. The technology is supportive, but if you don’t maintain the body, the technology learns bad habits,” Entrapta said as she unplugged her device and covered the port. Adora huffed as she pulled her shirt back on.

“Fine. I’ll think about it,”

What is your favourite holiday destination? 

Catra’s voice came to mind, laying beside Adora outside on the deck. Adora scrunched up her nose as she tried to force more of the memory to return but it slipped away. Adora sighed in reservation that she wouldn’t remember much at all of the night before.

[...]

Adora was sitting at her desk rubbing her temples. Her headache was getting worse and she felt justified to not take anything to relieve it. This was her punishment, and she would take it.

The door to Adora’s office opened after a swift three knocks that Adora knew was Mermista. She knocked differently if people were around, so she was on her own as she entered the room.

Mermista approached the desk and laid a magazine on the surface with an article in bold. Adora looked at it with disinterest. The article was about her meeting with the head journalist and Adora smirked despite the pain she was in.

Greyskull attempts to silence the media’s freedom of speech.

“They are too easy. At least that will distract them from Finn for a while,” Adora said, leaning back in her chair as she looked at the terrible picture they took of her leaving their building. Adora needed a haircut.

“Would you like me to make another donation later this week?” Mermista asked, the small smile on her face a testament to how much she was enjoying herself.

“Make it anonymous, I want them to work for it. That will keep them busy,” Adora said and Mermista grinned for just a moment before she schooled her expression. “Don’t use the children’s hospital this time, I didn’t like the way the media chewed them out for leaking the details,” Adora frowned, making a mental note to have her yearly donations changed from anonymous so they didn’t face the media whirlwind.

“How about that halfway house for teens leaving abusive homes?” Mermista offered as she pulled out her phone to check earlier donations.

“Perfect, pick some of your favourites. The money is better off with them, than me,” Adora said as she pinched the bridge of her nose and put the magazine down.

“Need some painkillers, boss?” Mermisa asked and Adora shook her head.

“No, thank you. Could you bring me some water?” Adora asked and Mermisa nodded her head, tapping at her phone.

“Can do. By the way, have I ever told you that this is the best part of my job?” Mermista asked and Adora quirked an eyebrow at her curiously.

“What is?” She asked, she thought the pay, easy hours and endless ‘work clothing’ credit card was her favourite part of her position.

“Screwing with the media is the best,” Mermista said and Adora rolled her eyes as she handed the magazine to Mermista.

“Well at least someone is having fun,” Adora grumbled.

“Lighten up boss, try to enjoy yourself,” Mermista said, rolling up the magazine to hit her hand with it.

“Hm,” Adora said, as she glanced at her computer.

“Are you heading home soon?” Mermista asked and Adora realised it was already past five and she should be thinking about finishing up.

“No, I-uh, have some more work to do,” Adora said as she felt her cheeks heat up. Mermista raised an eyebrow.

“Do you need me to stay?” Mermista asked, not wanting to stay while Adora worked.

“No, it's fine. See you tomorrow,” Adora said and Mermisa nodded.

“Ooookay, see you tomorrow, boss,” Mermista said, leaving the room like Adora might change her mind.

Adora thought about going home and working from her study but the idea of seeing Catra was still too embarrassing. She didn’t remember enough about the night before to know if she should be mortified but she decided she was. It wasn’t Catra’s responsibility to take care of her.

A memory floated behind her eyes at the thought and she felt heat return to her cheeks.

“Thank you, for taking care of me,” Adora mumbled.

“You say that now, but just wait till you get the bill,” Catra said.

“I’ll pay as much as you want,”

Adora groaned with embarrassment. She must have been such a pain and Catra deserved to be paid for wasting her time. Adora opened the timesheet she kept for Catra and added another day of pay at double her rates for overtime. She hoped it would be enough.

[...]

Catra was playing with Finn and Swifty on the deck when her work phone chimed. Catra had to stop chasing Finn around to look at the message which explained that Ms Grey would be staying late at work that night.

Catra wondered if Ms Grey embarrassment from the previous night was keeping her away but didn’t think she was someone who hid from those types of things.

Catra continued to play with Swifty and Finn until it was time for dinner. She took Finn inside and they asked about their mum.

When Catra explained that Ms Grey would be staying late at work Finn’s little face fell. They tried to hide their disappointment but Catra could see how the news had affected them.

Catra made something simple and fresh for dinner to counteract the warmer day of playing outside. Finn didn’t take to the food like they usually did. It was more suspicious when they ignored the cubes of mango that they loved.

“Are you feeling ok Finny?” Catra asked and Finn looked up from their plate with big blue eyes that were swimming with unshed tears. It broke Catra’s heart.

“I don’t feel well,” Finn admitted and Catra smiled gently.

“Do you want to lay down? You can eat whenever you’re ready,” Catra said and Finn nodded and lifted their arms for Catra to pick them up. Catra obliged them and petted their wild hair as they settled into her arms.

Catra carried them as she put their food in the fridge for later. She sat the plate next to their mother's plate of leftovers. Catra knew Ms Grey worked hard, and if she came home hungry Catra wanted for something more substantial than a pudding cup was waiting for her.

Catra took Finn into their bedroom with Swifty following behind. He seemed to have noticed that Finn was feeling unwell and he stuck to them like glue.

Finn didn’t seem to know why they were upset but Catra could see it. Emotions are hard to navigate for anyone but when you're not even five years old it’s even harder to know what you are feeling.

When Finn was feeling sick they curled into themselves like taking up space would make them less trouble. Catra recognised that method. When she was young her mum worked a lot too, single mums often had to do that. Catra remembered back then thinking that if she took up less space that she would be less of a burden to her mum. Little Catra tried to act like an adult and take care of themself but she was lucky with her social worker and her sitter who reminded her that she was a kid, and it was ok to be a kid. Her mum did her best, but it took a village to raise a child and those outside opinions helped Catra see that what her mum was saying was right. Catra didn’t have to be an adult back then, it was her job to be a kid.

Catra realised that Finn was so much like her younger self, they acted like a tiny adult and they thought they had to be one so they weren’t a burden. Ms Grey was working herself to the bone so of course Finn would notice that and try to help the only way they knew how. They were smart, but they were still a kid. They needed fun and safety and to not carry the world on their shoulders. Not yet.

Catra gave Finn a bath so they could relax and Catra played with the bubbles to make them laugh. They smiled but they didn’t laugh. Finn’s eyes had never looked quite so much like their mothers before, like broody grey skies that promised rain.

Catra helped Finn dry off and dress in the pyjamas they had picked for themselves. A white top with small red detailing and grey pants that didn’t seem to match but did go together.

“Can we cuddle?” Finn asked as they sat on their bed and Catra smiled.

“Sure, Finny, scooch over,” Catra said and climbed into bed. Finn cuddled into her arms and settled against her chest. Catra to rock them and started up a soothing purr for comfort. Finn wiggle against her.

“What’s that?” Finn asked as they moved to look up at Catra with big eyes alight with curiosity. Catra smiled.

“I’m purring,” Catra said “My mum used to do it for me when I was feeling sick or sad, but you can use it to show you are happy or feeling loved too,” Catra explained and watched the blonde kitten scrunch their face in consideration.

“Can I do it?” Finn asked and Catra smiled. Finn didn’t seem to know any other Magicats so it was understandable that they were unsure of their own special abilities.

“Yeah, I can show you how to force it, but once you practise then it will come when you need it” Catra offered moving the kitten to give a breath of space between them.

Catra pointed her finger at the part of her chest where her rumbling was loudest.

“It’s like humming, but it's deeper in your chest. Humming is up here in the throat,” Catra said and made a humming noise as she pointed to her throat and moved her finger down as the sound morphed into a base-y vibration in her chest. Finn giggled at the display and put their little hand on her sternum.

Catra purred for them for a little until Finn’s ears drooped selfconsciously.

“What if I can’t do it?” Finn asked.

“If you can’t do it right away you can always practise, but if you don’t want to do it that’s ok too. It won’t make you any less of a magicat if you don’t want to purr,” Catra reassured as she bundled the kitten back against her chest to resume their cuddles. She purred for them and after some time she thought Finn had fallen asleep.

A soft stuttering purr proved her wrong and Finn gasped with excitement. Their little face pinched with focus before they looked up at Catra with big, excited eyes.

Catra quieted her purring to listen better and heard the start and stop of a kitten’s purr. Catra squeezed them, trilling with excitement, and Finn echoed it with the same enthusiasm.

“You did it! You’re a natural,” she praised, and Finn glowed under the attention. After some careful attempts they seemed content to snuggle and nap with Catra. Catra resumed her purring while Finn butted under her chin to find the optimal location to sleep and Catra wiggled until she was comfortable. They both seemed to find the perfect spot at the same moment as they both sighed and went limp.

Catra hadn’t been in a cuddle pile since she was much younger with her mother, but she realised now how much she missed it. It was so relaxing, and she slept so deeply with a little kitten clinging to her.

[...]

Adora arrived late and exhausted. She went to the kitchen to find a note stuck to the fridge informing her that there was left overs of dinner inside. Adora thanked Catra when she saw the note and she realised she forgot to order dinner.

She opened the fridge and found a plate made up for her with vegetables, rice and chicken. Adora signed in relief and put the plate in the microwave to heat up.

Once she had enjoyed her delicious dinner, she walked down the hallway to her room. As she passed Finn’s bedroom she noticed their door was open. Adora stopped to check on them and peek inside the dark room. She was unprepared for the adorable sight of Catra and Finn cuddling on the bed, both sleeping.

Adora’s chest warmed at the cuteness before she noticed Finn was wearing their force captain pyjamas. That meant that they were feeling unwell. Guilt clawed at Adora’s chest at the thought that she wasn’t there to comfort her baby but she was grateful to Catra for taking care of them. Catra moved in the bed and Adora panicked a little at being caught but Catra’s eyes opened too quickly for her to flee.

Catra’s eyes glowed in the dark and she looked at Adora before she stretched and moved to climb out of Finn’s bed. She tucked them in and pushed some hair out of their face before she came over to the door.

Adora stepped back to let Catra out into the hall and she closed the door before she turned to Adora.

“Are they ok?” Adora asked and Catra nodded.

“They are…” Catra said and seemed to consider something for a moment. She motioned for Adora to follow her away from Finn’s door towards her own. “I think they were sad that you weren’t here for dinner,” Catra said and watched Adora’s face.

Adora tried not to react as her gut twisted at the thought that she had disappointed Finn so much. She was being selfish by trying to avoid Catra, embarrassed as she was, there was no reason to worry. Catra was a professional, and it was unlikely she would bring up anything Adora had said while intoxicated. Adora decided she would work from home when she wanted to work late. She needed to be there for Finn and she already didn’t get enough time with them.

“I will be sure to work from home in the evening in the future. I’m sorry I extended your work day,” Adora said and Catra waved her hand.

“I don’t mind that. Don’t worry about it,” Catra said and Adora almost believed her.

Money was always a motivator and everyone wanted it, Adora understood. Catra was paid for her time and that was why she took care of Finn. She was here to do a job.

Adora didn’t need to get it muddled in her head and mistake Catra’s work ethic for kindness. Catra was her employee, and she may enjoy her work, but that did not mean anything more.

Adora felt the anxiety of her day welling in her chest until she felt too heavy to hold. It had been a hassle allowing Catra to take care of her in her moment of weakness and it was a waste of her time. She was not Catra’s problem and Adora vowed to never allow it to happen again.

Adora turned her face away as the emotions welled within her, why did she feel so raw?

It was rare for Adora to feel so jaded about her wealth but people in her life had moulded her to believe that there was nothing else she could offer someone.

Melody only cared about Adora’s money, she had said that it didn’t matter to her, but the truth came out when the prenup did. Outside of Adora’s family, money was all she could really give. She was overworked, which made her hard to love and she was a single mother which made her hard to know because Finn always came first. The money was the only thing people could stand to gain with all of the baggage it took to care about Adora. Not that Finn could ever be considered baggage. But Adora certainly was.

“Oh no princess, you can walk,” 

Catra’s words from the night before echoed on Adora’s head and she felt ashamed. She put her hand to her head as the memory floated away. Adora was as useless as a princess, trying to run her father's company like a cheap replacement.

“Is there anything else?” Adora asked, sounding cold as she tried to keep emotion out of her voice.

“No…are you ok?” Catra asked with concern in her voice that only made Adora more defensive. Adora turned towards her room, she needed to be alone before it all spilled over.

“Fine, thank you. Goodnight miss Catra,” Adora said and heard Catra’s soft ‘goodnight’ as she went into her room and closed the door. Adora leaned back on her door and sighed as tears spilled down her face.

The few tears Adora allowed herself to cry she didn’t cry for Melody, she didn’t miss her, and she didn’t love her. But Adora cried because of the scars Melody left behind and how they left her so mutilated and unlovable that her father's legacy was all she was good for. Finn deserved another parent to love them and Adora was standing in the way of that. She needed to give Finn what they needed.

If the only thing Adora could offer someone was money then it would be easier to find a good mother for Finn, when she didn’t need to be a good wife for Adora.

Adora’s happiness didn’t matter at all.

[...]

When Adora woke the next morning she wasn’t sure who was more excited about her morning ritual, Finn or herself. Her kitten sleepily climbed into her arms and Adora hugged them close for a moment. She could hear them humming and Adora hummed a gentle tune in return. Finn clung to her and despite her guilt she still resolved to be better and give Finn everything they could want. It’s what they deserve.

Adora took them into the kitchen with her and went about her one handed coffee making. She was humming as she pushed the coffee machine to make her drink and felt a vibration against her chest. Adora waited for it to stop when the coffee machine did but it continued.

It took a moment to realise that the purring sound wasn’t coming from her appliances, but from the bundle in her arms. She had heard this sound before, Catra had purred when she was in Adora’s bed. Melody had purred occasionally, but she was far from a happy woman.

Adora’s kitten was purring. Adora wrapped both her arms around her baby and tried to not squeeze too tight. She didn’t want to cry but she felt the happiness welling inside her. She was so proud and so relieved. Finn was learning to express themselves in a way that was unique to them and it was amazing. Adora hummed to the rhythm that Finn had set and they purred louder.

Adora heard movement behind her and tried to blink the emotion from her eyes before she turned to face Catra. Catra’s ears perked up at the sound coming from Finn and she smiled proudly at the bundle in Adora’s arms.

Catra didn’t say anything as she entered the kitchen and Adora realised an apology was sitting at the tip of her tongue.

“I’m sorry I was such a burden then I was intoxicated,” Adora said, the act of saying it was its own small relief. Catra looked surprised before she smiled again.

“That’s alright, it was kind of fun,” Catra said with a shrug, going to the coffee machine to make her own drink. She set to finishing Adora’s coffee and Adora too distracted to stop her.

“It won’t happen again,” Adora promised and Catra laughed a little.

“It's cool if it does, it was an emergency. I assume you aren’t going to get trashed every weekend,” Catra said, glancing over her shoulder as Adora felt her face heat up.

“Of course not, that would be irresponsible,” Adora said and Catra set the coffee machine to go as she turned to Adora.

“Well, not if you plan it, this time seemed unplanned,” Catra said and Adora adjusted Finn in her arms. They snuggled into her neck as they continued to purr.

“It was. That aspect has been corrected for next time,” Adora said and Catra nodded.

“Well you can always ask me to work later if you need me or want to go out or something,” Catra said and Adora tried to school her face. Was Catra telling Adora to go on a date? Was she so transparent? Catra looked a little flushed and tried to move on. “On that note, I had something to ask you,” Catra said and Adora nodded for her to continue.

“Are you gay? Or did you say that because you were trashed?” Catra asked and Adora’s eyes widened as her face burned.

“How did that come up?! Did I say something inappropriate?” Adora asked. She tried to keep her voice down with Finn so that it came out as a panicked whisper.

“No, nothing inappropriate,” Catra said, emphasising the word as she glanced away. She still looked flushed and Adora couldn’t blame her. This was embarrassing.

“I am gay. I wasn’t saying that because you’re…” Adora cut herself off, oversharing as she tried to explain. She tried to keep her voice even as Catra nodded and bit her lip. Adora looked away.

“Ok, cool, I just wanted to check,” Catra said, ignoring Adora’s blunder. Adora nodded her head mutely. Catra handed Adora her coffee and offered to take Finn.

Finn resisted letting go of Adora, but the close and prolonged proximity to Catra did not help Adora’s racing heart or flustered nerves. She rushed out of the house, desperate to get to the normalness of her workday after that conversation.

[...]

“Hey Boss,” Mermista said walking into Adora’s office. Adora glanced at her, she didn’t ask Mermista for anything so she wasn’t expecting her. She made a note of where she was in her reading and turned her attention to her secretary.

“Yes?” Adora asked and Mermista clicked the pen she was holding in her hand. She had a file clutched against her chest and if Adora didn’t know any better she seemed nervous as she fidgeted.

“I was reviewing the policy for dating co-workers and I noticed there wasn’t anything to outline the policy between Greyskull enterprises and your personal staff dating. Could you tell me your thoughts so I can get the policy updated?” Mermista asked and Adora raised her eyebrows in surprise. Mermista clicked the pen and fussed with the papers in her hand as colour came to her cheeks.

“Dating between Greyskull Enterprises and my personal staff? Why would that come up?” Adora asked, one eyebrow lowering into a quizzical expression. Mermista wasn’t making eye contact, which was unusual and it spoke volumes for how uncomfortable she was.

“People might want to mingle,” Mermista said.

“Uh huh, and this has nothing to do with my driver, Seahawk?” Adora asked and Mermista scoffed.

“No, he’s an idiot,” Mermista said and Adora nodded her head.

“Then who is asking about this?” Adora asked and Mermista rolled her eyes.

“Fine, I wanted to ask Catra out for a drink. Is that, like, against the policy?” Mermista said and Adora’s eyes widened. A strange burning sensation filled her chest at the idea of Mermista dating her nanny. Which was ridiculous.

“You want to date my Nanny?”

“Yes, if she’s interested,”

“Why?” Adora asked, she had no reason to ask this question but it came out of her mouth before she had time to consider it.

“The list of why not is a lot shorter,” Mermista said and Adora cleared her throat. Adora was not jealous, that was not what this feeling was. There was no logical reason for Adora to intervene in these matters. They were both adults and could make their own choices. It wasn’t like Adora couldn’t see the appeal. There was nothing in writing preventing this match, so why did Adora feel so opposed to it?

“There is nothing in the policy to stop fraternisation between my personal staff and company staff,” Adora said.

Was she considering adding a new section to the policy? Yes.

Would it help her at this moment? No.

“So, I have your blessing?” Mermista asked, a small smile coming to her lips which caused Adora’s stomach to sink. She wanted this conversation to be over and to never think about it again.

“I am neither her guardian nor protector, you do not need my blessing,” Adora said, a reminder to herself as much as it was a response to Mermista.

“I’m going to take that as a yes,” Mermista said, and Adora frowned.

“Is there anything else?” Adora asked and Mermista handed Adora the file she was holding.

“Entrapta went over the report for the biotechnical military applications and had some notes to share,” Mermista said as Adora took the file.

“She couldn’t email it to me?” Adora asked, opening the folder to what appeared to be the absurd scribblings of her lead robotics expert.

“She insisted on doing it this way,” Mermista said and Adora locked her computer before she got to her feet with the file in hand.

“I’m going to go talk to her. Can you move my meetings?”

“Sure thing, boss,” Mermista said, walking out of Adora’s office with her and back to her desk while Adora headed to the 13th floor.

[...]

Adora kept her promise and to arrived home by six to have dinner with Finn and Catra. Catra made another delicious meal that the three could share without any trouble with diatary requirements. Adora wondered who taught Catra to cook, not only was she quite skilled at it, but she clearly enjoyed it too. 

Adora played with Finn and put them to bed with three story books. After Finn was definately asleep Adora went back to her office to work. She spent a few hours checking the data Entrapta had sent her and working out a proposal, or counteroffer for the board.

When she finally decided to go to bed and stepped into the hallway she could see the was still a light on in the living room.

She walked into the room to turn off the light she assumed was left on by accident and noticed she wasn't alone. Adora didn't expect anyone to be awake at this hour but Catra was wrapped up in blankets on the couch reading one of Adora's many books.

"Miss Catra," Adora said, before she could stop herself.

"Ms Grey," Catra returned with a smile as she looked up from the book she was reading. Adora couldn’t see the name on the cover, but it was old and leatherbound, so it was likely one of her classic collections.

"Adora," Adora corrected. She didn't mean to correct her. Her tired mind not wanting to hear the title she hears all day at work in her owe home. 

"Then you can call me Catra," Catra said, her eyes dancing in the dim light. 

"Very well, is your bed insufficient?" Adora asked, wondering why Catra appeared to be ready to sleep on the far less comfortable couch. 

"No, it's like a cloud. I get insomnia," Catra said and Adora nodded her head. 

"I understand," Adora said, unsure what else to say as her tired brain begged for sleep.

"Do you struggle to sleep too or have no time?" Catra asked.

"I don't sleep, so I prefer to work," Adora said without thinking, and felt she had shared too much. She glanced at her watch for something to do, if she got to sleep now she might get 4 hours of sleep.

"Don't let me keep you," Catra said, looking back at her book. Adora should go to her room and tried to rest but she wasn't ready for this conversation to end.

Despite all the embarrassment of the past days, Adora couldn’t deny that she felt closer to Catra and felt like she understood her  a little better now.

"What are you reading?" Adora asked and Catra smiled as she looked up. She moved the book to show the gold lettering on the spine.

"Pride and Prejudice," Catra said and Adora smiled. Adora didn’t have time to read all the books she owned but she had read that one several times.

"Have you read it before?" Adora asked.

"Never," Catra said with a playful smile coming to her face.

"Are you enjoying it?" Adora asked, trying to keep her excitement in check as she shifted her feet.

"I like the romance. Darcy is an interesting guy," Catra said and Adora nodded her head.

"How so?" Adora asked, she was eager to know Catra’s thoughts.

"He's smart, even if he's not good with social interactions and there's something admirable about someone who acts with intention," Catra said, her eyes watching Adora with such focus that she held Adora captive with her gaze.

"I can understand the appeal, but I think I prefer Elizabeth's character more," Adora said and Catra nodded.

"Oh, and why is that?" Catra asked as she angled her body more towards the conversation.

"She is headstrong and unapologetically, but she isn't afraid to admit when she's wrong,"

"Spoilers," Catra gasped playfully.

"I’m sorry, I should have been more careful with the plot of a book which is over 200 years old" Adora found herself teasing back and it gifted her with a soft squeaky giggle that warmed her chest.

"You're forgiven," she said, her eyes dancing. Adora needed to go to bed before she said something ridiculous like asking Catra to read to her until she fell asleep. She wasn’t a child but she couldn’t help but feel that any story could benefit from Catra’s voice reading it.

"You are too kind, enjoy your reading. Goodnight," she said instead, ready to go to bed and struggle through her own sleep.

"Goodnight Adora," Catra whispered back and Adora went to her room before she could change her mind.

Chapter Text

Catra’s Wednesday morning was surprisingly stressful considering it was her day off. 

Catra was sleeping snuggled into the pillows and blankets of her bed. She felt someone rocking her arm and stirred. She blinked her eyes open to see the little face of Finn standing in her room. It was such a unusual sight that it jolted Catra into action and she sat upright abruptly. Finn was startled by the action, their eyes getting big and ears going back against the mess of their hair.

“Finn, what’s wrong?” Catra asked, trying not to panic. She registered that the sun was already up and it must have been at least eight o'clock. It was strange that Finn was here at this time. Usually they would be with Ms. Grey on their way to work by now.

“Mama’s sleeping,” Finn whispered, they were still in their pyjamas and they looked so unsure. “I’m hungry,” Finn said softly as their ears drooped and Catra blinked at them as her brain caught up to the information she was given. She looked at her phone, it was almost nine in the morning and Ms Grey was still sleeping? That was concerning.

Catra quickly got up and grabbed her robe to wrap around herself.

“Let's get you some breakfast,” Catra said, smiling at Finn as she scooped them up so they knew they didn’t do anything wrong. Finn tittered as they wiggled in her arms but seemed reassured that they did the right thing. Catra walked them into the kitchen and sat them down in their chair to quickly make their breakfast.

She placed their bowl in front of them and turned on the coffee machine to start her own breakfast. Catra ruffled Finn’s ears playfully and crouched to their height to talk to them.

“I’ll be back in just a second, I just wanna check on your mum,” Catra said and Finn nodded as they set out to eat their breakfast and Swifty hung around waiting for theirs. Catra gave them a pet and promised to be right back.

Catra crept down the hallway quietly and softly knocked on Ms Grey’s door. She heard complete silence from inside and decided she needed to check that Ms Grey was alright. She opened the door a crack and could see Ms Grey laying on the bed with papers around her and her laptop still open. She looked so tired despite sleeping deeply.

Catra breathed a sigh of relief that Adora was okay but very tired. Catra crept into the room silently and carefully picked up the papers. She put them in a pile and pulled the laptop from Adora's dormant hands before she closed it and added it to the pile of papers. Catra clicked the button to make the blinds go down and left the room again. Hopefully that would make Adora more comfortable and wasn’t overstepping. She clearly needed sleep, so in Catra’s mind she was on the clock now.

Catra was walking down the hall back to the kitchen when her work phone rang. She quickly muted it so it didn’t wake Ms Grey and answered.

“Hey,” Catra greeted Mermista.

“Great, at least someone answers my calls, I know it's your day off, but have you seen Ms Grey this morning?” Mermista asked and Catra returned to sit at the table.

“She’s sleeping, I think she really needs it,” Catra said and smiled as Finn looked at her curiously.

“I bet she does, she was up late for a meeting last night, I’ll rearrange her day,” Mermista said, the clicking of keys never stopping as she talked.

“Thanks, I’m home so I have Finn covered,” Catra said smiling at the little blonde who giggled.

“Great, I’ll see if I can move all her meetings to tomorrow, no need to overwork her if she does come in,” Mermista said and Catra nodded.

“True, thanks Mermista,” Catra said, ready to end the call.

“Speaking of working, are you, like, working this Friday night?” Mermista asked, the clicking of keys stopping.

“I’m not sure, I would have to check with Ms Grey, why?” Catra asked as Finn finished their food and wiggled out of their chair to go play. Catra picked up the bowl and took it to the sink.

“If you’re free, you should come out to drink with me after work,” Mermista said and Catra nodded. She hasn't been out to town in a long time, so it would be a nice change.

“Sure, who else is coming?” Catra asked curiously as she washed the bowl Finn used.

“Ugh, you think I like the people I work with?” Mermista said and Catra could hear her eye-roll.

“Good point, I’ll let you know,” Catra said, glancing over to check on Finn when she heard them drop something.

“Great, like, talk later,” Mermista said as the clicking keyboard resumed.

“Bye,” Catra said and put her work phone on vibrate before she opened her personal one to check the weather. It was going to be a sunny day which was perfect for a day off. If she ended up taking care of Finn for the day at least she knew she could convince them to nap in the sun with her.

Catra went to sit on the couch when Finn turned their attention to her.

“Mama’s really tired,” Finn said and Catra smiled at them as she leaned on her hand.

“Yeah, she's really busy,” Catra agreed.

“It's because she's a superhero and she saves people,” Finn said definitely and Catra smiled fondly at them.

“That's right buddy, she's making people's lives better,” Catra said and Finn nodded. Catra is set to make her own breakfast and feed Swifty. Once everyone was fed Catra played with Finn and their toys. Catra made sure they knew their mum was sleeping so they had to be quiet until she woke up. They seemed fine with that and played with Swifty once Swifty had inhaled their breakfast.

Catra’s work phone vibrated again and she answered it.

“Yeah?” Catra asked.

“I managed to get her meetings moved to tomorrow, so when she wakes up tell her she can go back to sleep,” Mermista said and Catra snorted.

“Yeah, sure. She will definitely listen to me,” Catra said, trying to brush a doll's hair with one hand, but it wasn't working very well.

“You’ve got as much of a chance as the rest of us,” Mermsita said and Catra thanked her before they ended the call. Catra returned to playing with Finn when she heard movement down the hallway.

“Mama,” Finn said with excitement and rushed over to the hallway just as Ms. Grey emerged into the light. She looked like she had gotten ready in a hurry, tidy but not immaculate like she usually was. As soon as she saw Finn she crouched to pick them up.

“Finny, I’m sorry I overslept,” Adora said quietly as Catra stood up, attracting her blue eyes.

“That's ok, Miss Catra said you were tired from helping so many people,” Finn said proudly and Catra felt her cheeks colour. Those weren't her exact words, but of course Finn would say it like that. Adora looked at Catra with a small smile that was warmer than she was used to. She supposed it wasn’t so bad to stretch the truth a little.

“I was very tired, but I’m awake now, so we can go to work,” Adora said and Catra lifted her hand to catch Adora’s attention.

“Mermista called, she moved your meetings." She said if you wanted to take the day to recover you could,” Catra explained and Adora looked a little taken aback.

“I couldn’t do that…” Adora said and Catra smiled.

“You could, I’m sure things will be fine if you take a sick day,” Catra said and Adora huffed a little laugh. Catra felt her fur fluff up at the unusual sound.

“I guess you’re right, what would you like to do, Finny?”

“Zoooooooooo!” Finn said with certainty and Adora smiled.

“Good, let's get ready,” Adora said, putting Finn down on the floor.

“Can Miss Catra come?” Finn begged immediately.

“Not today Finny, Miss Catra has the day off,” Adora reminded Finn diligently and Catra smiled.

“I actually wouldn’t mind coming, if that's ok,” Catra said and Adora looked up at her with surprise. Pleasantly surprised, Catra hoped.

“Are you sure? It’s your personal day,” Adora reminded her.

“I know, but I like the zoo, and it's nice to not go alone,” Catra said with a shrug as she tried to seem nonchalant. She hadn’t planned to go out today but the idea of going to the Zoo with Finn and Ms Grey was too tempting an offer to pass up. Ms Grey never took time off and it felt like a special opportunity to see her doing something she enjoyed rather than hanging around the house on her days off.

“Yess, Mama please!” Finn said with excitement and the biggest kitten eyes she had ever seen.

“We would be happy to have you, if that is what you would like to do,” Adora said and Catra smiled.

“Very diplomatic,” Catra teased, earning a small smile. Catra wanted Adora to say that she would like her to come with them, but it was a silly desire.

“Yes, well, work is work,” Adora said carefully and Catra rolled her eyes before she nodded. Finn ran off to their room to pick an outfit and Adora followed them to help. “Is half an hour enough to get ready?” Adora asked and Catra nodded.

“I can make that work,” Catra assured before Adora disappeared after Finn.

Adora ended up calling the office before they left the house just to make sure everything was fine and was promptly told to go back to sleep by Mermista.

Catra collected her analogue camera and dressed in a t-shirt and a pair of shorts from her own wardrobe. She ignored the little voice in her head that reminded Catra that Adora liked her personal wardrobe. That was not why she wore it.

Adora and Finn were both wearing casual clothing which was a nice change from their usual for business wear Wednesday. Adora looked amazing in her mum jeans, t-shirt and a sun hat, it was unfair how she could wear anything and look effortlessly beautiful. Finn picked their own outfit and picked out as many clothing pieces with animals on them as possible. Their outfit consisted of loud green pants with zebras on them, an orange shirt covered in baby tigers and a panda hat that was far too fluffy and warm for the weather.

It was a warm day with a slightly cool breeze that was perfect for a day of walking. Catra enjoyed having company at the zoo, it was nice to not be the only one watching Finn and to be able to relax a little bit and take photos.

Finn insisted on holding hands with both Catra and their mother as they walked around the zoo. It was sweet but made it hard to take photos since Catra’s camera required two hands to operate. Despite the limitations, Catra got some truly beautiful shots of Adora holding Finn as they gave food to a baby monkey.

Before she realised it, the sun was setting over the city and Adora glowed in the warm colours of the sunset. She looked relaxed for the first time in Catra’s memory and it was a breathtaking sight to see.

[...]
Finn was exhausted from running around at the zoo, and fell asleep in their car seat on the way home. Adora carefully carried them up to the penthouse while she wore both her own hat and Finn’s balanced on top of it.

“Thank you for coming out with us,” Adora said in the elevator. She felt so content and grateful to Catra for spending her personal time making Finn happy. It really felt like too much to ask for, but Catra seemed to have just as much fun at the zoo as Finn did with her there.

“It was my pleasure. It’s a lot easier with two people to keep an eye on Finn,” Catra said jokingly and Adora nodded. Finn could be a handful at times, and having someone else there to watch them made the whole experience easier.

“You should have seen them when they were two. They were barely walking but apparently they had places to be. It was terrifying to take my eyes off them for even a moment,” Adora said and gently kissed Finn’s head as they slept, a purr springing to life in their chest. That was something else Adora was grateful to Catra for. Finn has been purring much more lately, showing their joy the way that came naturally to them, and Adora couldn’t be more proud.

“I bet it was, they are smart and always up to something,” Catra agreed and Adora nodded.

“I know we took up your day off today. You should take another day off this week, I'm sure we can work it out,” Adora said and Catra nodded.

“Actually, I wanted to ask. Do you need me on Friday night?” Catra asked. Something needled in the back of Adora’s mind causing her to ask a stupid question.

“Why? Do you have a hot date?” Adora asked and immediately realised she overstepped. “Sorry, don’t answer that,”

“It's ok, Mermista asked me out for drinks. But I don’t have to go if you need me that night,” Catra said with a shrug like it wasn’t a big deal. Maybe it wasn’t for Catra. She didn’t have all the problems that Adora carried with her, so dating was probably a lot more fun for her.

“No, no, that's fine. We should be fine, you should go,” Adora said around the tightness in her throat. She didn’t really know why her heart was racing the way it was or why she felt anxious. It seemed to come out of nowhere.

“Are you sure?” Catra asked, she probably noticed how weird Adora was being about this.

“Yeah, it can make up for your missed morning off,” Adora tried to cover and Catra nodded.

“Oh, sure, if you like,” Catra agreed with a shrug as they stepped out of the elevator, holding the door for Adora and Finn. Once they were inside Adora felt that the tranquillity of the day had been broken by her intrusion and awkwardly excused herself to put Finn to bed.

[...]

Catra took Finn to the park to play on Friday afternoon and was surprised to see Glimmer Moon there with Angel. It was a nice surprise for Finn to see their cousin and Catra could talk to another adult for a while.

Glimmer and Catra were making small talk while watching the kids play. They talked about the weather, the latest shows and shopping. Whatever they could think of to not let the conversation fall silent. It wasn’t anything deep but it was nice. There was a brief pause in conversation when Catra noticed a lolly Angel was offering to Finn and her ears pricked up.

“Just a sec,” she said to Glimmer and walked over to Finn. “Wait a second Finny,” Catra asked and Finn stopped from opening the wrapper and looked up at Catra curiously.

“They’ve had them before, they aren't allergic,” Glimmer said, coming over with her, obviously reading Catra's concern correctly. Catra focused on Finn and crouched to their level.

“Have you had this lolly before buddy?” Catra asked curiously as she took the lolly from their hand. Finn nodded, their eyes round as they followed the treat with their eyes. “Do you remember how it made you feel?” Catra asked in a soft tone. Finn shook their head.

“I’ve had these lollies before and they make me pretty bananas,” Catra explained carefully. In reality she was talking down the way it affected her. It made her hyperactive and impulsive, like she was on 10 litres of coffee and then she crashed and was unwell after coming down.

“Bananas?” Finn asked tentatively. Catra smiled reassuringly.

“Yeah, it makes me hyper and then I feel really yucky afterwards,” Catra said “do you feel like that when you have it?” Catra asked and Finn frowned cutely.

“I don't remember,” Finn said with a pout.

“That’s okay, how about we try it and we pay special attention to how it makes you feel. Then we know if you react like I do,” Catra said, there was a possibility that Finn wouldn’t have the same reaction because their birthing parent wasn’t a magicat. Catra wasn’t sure how that might affect them when it came to allergies and reactions. Finn nodded, excited they would still get their treat. Catra handed it back and let Finn settle down with their cousin to enjoy their spoils.

Catra went back to Glimmer who smiled.

“You’re really good with them,” Glimmer said and Catra smiled.

“Thanks, that lolly has a colourant in it that affects magicats differently to other species,” Catra explained what she hadn't said to Finn.

“I had no idea,” Glimmer said, looking a little guilty. She had given them to Finn before and clearly didn’t know that something was happening.

“Yeah, not many people know. Magicats are pretty sensitive to artificial stuff,” Catra shrugged, Glimmer knew now so that was all that mattered.

“Well Finn is very lucky they have you looking out for them,” Glimmer said, with a smile, but her expression looked calculating. Catra just smiled and looked back at Finn. “Speaking of…how is Adora doing?” Glimmer asked, trying to sound nonchalant.

“I’m not going to share her private life without her permission, if that's what you're asking,” Catra said firmly. Everyone was entitled to their privacy and Catra wasn’t going to tell her sister anything she learnt by being in Adora’s space.

“But we’re family!” Glimmer whined slightly and Catra smiled.

“Then ask her yourself,” Catra said and Glimmer huffed before she crossed her arms and pouted.

“I've tried! She doesn't tell me anything,” Glimmer said and Catra felt sympathy for her. She had no doubt that Ms. Grey was a hard woman to get to know. Even living with her for over a month she felt like she barely knew anything about her at all.

“Then she doesn't want you to know. She's entitled to her privacy,” Catra said, Ms Grey had the right to share what she chose to with the world or her family. If she chose to share nothing, then that was her decision.

“I get that but she’s just worrying me. She acts more like Randy every day,” Glimmer said as she watched Angel and Finn jump up and run back to the monkey bars once they finished their treat.

“That's her father?” Catra confirmed, Randy was short for Randor, right?

“Yeah, he was selfless. He never asked for anything and was so loving,” Glimmer said, looking sad. “He was the kind of person you never had to ask for help, if you told him your problem he would just be there,” Glimmer said, sadness lacing her voice.

“He sounds like he was a great man,” Catra offered gently.

“He was, we were all really lucky to have him in our lives. I’m so worried that Adora will run herself into the ground like he did,” Glimmer said, watching the kids but she couldn’t hide her grief.

“How did he die?” Catra asked, unable to stop herself.

“He was in a car crash. They think he fell asleep at the wheel. He ran a red light and ended up in an intersection where a truck hit his car. He was the only casualty,” Glimmer said, holding herself a little tighter.

“That's so tragic, I'm sorry for your loss,” Catra said softly, wanting to offer some comfort but she wasn’t sure what was appropriate.

“Thank you. I understand you can't tell me anything, but I'm worried about my sister and I don't want to lose her. So please let me know if there is anything we can do to help her,” Glimmer asked, looking at Catra with glossy eyes full of emotion. Catra nodded slowly.

“I think she just needs to accept more support, maybe try talking to her?” Catra offered lamely and Glimmer frowned before she smiled softly.

“You’re right, I should talk to her. Thanks,” Glimmer said gently and they both looked back towards the children.

“No trouble,” Catra said, feeling like she didn’t help at all. She watched Finn running around the playground with Angel. Finn deserved to have their mother in their life for as long as possible, so in theory Catra’s job of taking care of Finn meant taking care of Ms Grey too.

Catra could handle that.

[...]

Finn whined softly as they burrowed into Catra’s neck. They had gotten hyper at the park, running around and having fun before they crashed. They had complained about a stomach ache all the way home. Catra held them in her arms as she rubbed their back gently on the ride up the elevator.

“I don’t like that lolly,” Finn said sadly, and Catra rocked them as they waited to get to the top floor.

“I know, it will be ok. We’ll get you some medicine when we get home and you’ll start to feel better,” Catra said as she opened the front door with one hand and was surprised to see that Ms Grey was already home. She was in the kitchen making something and Catra came into the room with wide surprised eyes.

Adora was in what Catra would call casual clothes for her and wearing an apron. Adora turned and noticed them with a start.

“Oh, hi,” Adora said and Finn groaned. “Is Finn ok?” Adora asked, looking worried.

“They had something that upset their stomach, can you hold them so I can make them something for it?” Catra asked and Adora wiped her hands before she quickly came over to scoop Finn from her arms. Finn clung to her as they tried to purr but couldn’t keep it consistent with the discomfort.

As soon as Catra had her hands free she rushed around the kitchen, grabbing ingredients to make tea to settle Finn’s stomach. She could feel Adora’s eyes on her as she mixed everything together. The kitchen looked like Adora was halfway through making cookies, Finn’s favourites if Catra had to guess. Catra wondered what the occasion was for Adora to be home so early.

Catra made the tea and put some ice in it to cool it enough for Finn to drink. Adora settled on the couch to rock Finn and the sight was absolutely adorable. Adora took the cup from Catra and took a sip to check the temperature before she made a sour face.

“It will help, it just tastes bad,” Catra said with a laugh.

“Tastes bad enough to be good for you,” Adora said softly as she helped Finn sit up and sip the tea. They whined but drank the sour liquid. Once they were done Catra took the mug from Adora.

“I know I have the night off, but I can cancel if you need me,” Catra offered and Adora shook her head.

“No need, it's your night, we can handle things on our own,” Adora said, pulling Finn close kissing their head. Finn looked sleepy from their sugar crash and with the tea helping with the pain they started to nod off in their mother's arms.

“Ok, if you’re sure,” Catra said uncertainly as she gripped the mug she was holding with both hands.

“Of course, I hope you enjoy your date,” Adora said as her cheeks looked a little pink.

“It's not a date, I don’t think…” Catra said. She was pretty sure Mermista would have been clear if it was a date. Catra had no idea why she felt the need to correct Ms Grey about her dating life. Adora didn’t comment and Catra went to put the mug into the kitchen while Adora took Finn to their room to settle them into bed.

With nothing else to do and her charge being taken from her care, Catra decided to get ready for her night out. Adora was home early so she had time to actually get ready instead of rushing through an outfit change.

Catra looked through all the clothing that Dee bought her but she didn’t want to use the work clothing she had since nothing really fit into the gay bar aesthetic. Catra turned to her own clothing instead. She found her favourite pair of black leather pants and a deep red crop top with a leather jacket over the top. It was the outfit she used to wear clubbing with Scorpia but somehow it felt like too much. She swapped the top for a red one with a boob window and it felt better. She did her makeup and hair before she realised she was ready too early instead.

The idea of loitering around the house while Adora was taking care of Finn felt weird to her so she put her jacket on and snuck out into the hall in her high heeled boots.

Adora was back in the kitchen making cookies when she heard Catra and looked up. She stopped moving immediately except for her eyes that skimmed over Catra’s outfit. Catra felt nervous under her appraisal but the colour that came to Adora's cheeks was a bit of a confidence boost. Adora looked back at the cookies.

“Enjoy your night,” Adora said, clearing her throat and Catra nodded.

“Call me if you need me,” Catra offered again.

“We won’t, but thank you,” Adora assured her, and it made Catra a little sad.

“Right…of course, goodnight,” Catra said and grabbed her bag. Ms Grey’s words felt painful even if they were true. Ms Grey was an independent woman, she didn’t need Catra’s help.

[...]

Catra arrived at the bar where she agreed to meet Mermista. It was on the corner of a big block with flashing lights in the windows and gay flags hanging from every surface possible. Catra got them a booth since it was still early in the night and sat down to wait for her partner in crime.

She wasn’t there long before someone approached her and started a conversation. It was flattering but Catra reminded herself that she wasn’t interested in dating and told the person she was waiting for someone. They seemed disappointed but they left her alone.

Mermista arrived looking like a million dollars draped in a gold and navy blue dress. Mermista looked at Catra’s outfit and whistled.

“You look hot,” Mermista said and Catra rolled her eyes at the compliment to hide her embarrassment.

“So do you,” Catra said and Mermista dramatically flipped her hair over her shoulder.

“I know, let's get some shots,” Mermista said and Catra reluctantly agreed. She didn’t want to get messy when she had to go back to her boss’ house at the end of the night. But she could start big and slow down later so her metabolism could sober her up.

Shots are usually not Catras' friend because when she drinks heavily she gets too blunt and that usually gets her into trouble. Catra kinda wanted to let off some steam and let loose a little but that meant giving her strong opinions centre stage.

Mermista had been talking about the latest celebrity gossip and Catra was listening with the same level of interest she gave her mum. She was considering how much Mermista and her mum would get along when she shook herself and forced herself to pay attention to what Mermista was saying.

“She was wearing this tight black dress with a slit up to her tits and it looked so hot, you should have seen it,” Mermista said, talking about a celebrity Catra forgot the name.

“Damn that's hot. You know who else is hot?” Catra asked, changing the subject immediately without knowing where she was going with it.

“Who?” Mermista asked, her eyes sparkling with mischief as she slipped her cocktail.

“Adora Grey,” Catra said, not expecting her own words as her cheeks burned with embarrassment.

“Oh my god, right? She’s so hot,” Mermista agreed as she swirled her drink and Catra tried to hide her blush by drinking more of her own cocktail.

“Have you ever hit on her?” Catra asked, because she had no control over her mouth right now. Her mind was apparently singularly attached to Ms Grey.

“Oh no, as much as I’d like to. I was there for the Melody era, so I know that ship has sailed.” Mermista said, though her eyebrows creased with a frown, “I was Mr Grey’s assistant first and Adora used to come and have lunch every week with her dad. Did you know that she used to be a dancer?”

“No, I had no idea what type of dancing?” Catra asked curiously, sipping her delicious drink despite how she didn’t need any more alcohol. It was just so tasty.

“Ballet, she was really good and she had a really promising career too, until Melody happened,” Mermista said, with venom in her words.

“Did you meet Melody?” Catra asked, she didn’t know much about Melody, but she was yet to hear a redeeming feature about that woman.

“I did, a couple of times, she didn’t like to talk to ‘the help’ as she put it,” Mermista said, rolling her eyes.

“What a bitch,” Catra said and blushed as she pushed her drink away. “I need to slow down on these,” she said, as much to herself as Mermista.

“You’re doing fine, safe space or whatever,” Mermista shrugged as she pushed Catra’s drink back towards her. Catra knew on some level she shouldn’t keep drinking it, but it tasted so good so she resumed sipping.

“What do you think of her? Melody I mean, since we already know what you think of Ms Grey,” Catra said playfully, feeling a little tight chested at her own joke. She pushed the feeling away.

“I would be LUCKY to catch Adora’s eye. In all the years I’ve worked for her I have never seen her look twice at someone, or show any interest,” Mermista said, holding eye contact with Catra for a moment before she shrugged. “Melody is the worst. After what she did to Adora, if I ever met her again, I would burn her alive.” Mermista said with a fire Catra hadn’t seen from her before. It was kind of sweet.

“After what Adora…uh, Ms Grey said about her, I think I would too,” Catra said thinking back to that night on the deck.

“Adora’s told you about her?” Mermista asked with surprise, she tipped her head as her expression evolved into a smirk.

“Uh, yes, but she wasn’t herself at the time, so it's not a big deal,” Catra excused. Ms Grey was intoxicated and everything she said was a reflection on her intoxicated state and had nothing to do with how she felt about Catra.

“I beg to differ, she never talks about Melody. Not since she won the custody case. She has been completely stone walling everyone about her,” Mermista said as she stabbed an olive in her drink and ate it with the toothpick.

“Custody case?” Catra asked, she wanted to stop asking, give Adora her privacy but she was so curious and she’d had too many drinks to hold back now.

“Yeah, back when Finn was born, Adora took Melody to court to get sole custody of Finn, since Melody was registered as their other parent. Melody didn’t really care about Finn, but she did want compensation, which Adora gave her. I hear it was alot,” Mermista said, drinking her drink and glancing towards the bar. “I know we said we would go to the club after this but did you wanna stay here and order food instead?” Mermista asked and Catra perked up.

“I am pro food, I didn’t eat before I left,” Catra explained, she didn’t realise how hungry she was until food was mentioned.

“That explains a lot, I didn’t expect you to be such a lightweight,” Mermista said playfully and Catra scoffed.

“I have literally drunk twice as many shots as you,” Catra defended, admittedly, that wasn’t much for a magicat and she should eat something to sober herself up before she drank more.

“Yeah but that's a lightweight for a magicat,” Mermista teased and Catra stuck her tongue out at her.

“Fine, lets get food and I can drink more,” Catra said and Mermista grinned.

“Sounds like a plan,” Mermista agreed.

As the night was wrapping up, Catra felt warm. She was full of alcohol and indigent bar food that she hadn’t had in the longest time.  Mermista and her shared many conversations that Catra remembered enjoying but couldn’t quite remember exactly what was said. She had a really fun night. Catra didn’t have many friends because of her previously strict study schedule so this was a nice night making a new friend.

They were waiting outside the bar for their driver to arrive and Mermista was wearing Catra’s jacket because it was cool but Catra was running hot. Mermista had called the same car service that Adora used and Catra had to wonder if Mermista or the company was paying.

A thought occurred to Catra as she considered her earlier conversation with Ms Grey and she turned to Mermista.

“Mermista, was this meant to be a date?” Catra asked bluntly and Mermista smirked.

“Do you want it to be a date?” Mermista asked, her eyes sparkling as she watched Catra with interest. Catra thought about it for a moment before she decided.

“No, I don’t think so,” She said honestly.

“Same, you’re hot as fuck, but it would never work between us,” Mermista said a little dramatically.

“Oh yeah, why not?” Catra asked and Mermista rolled her eyes.

“Well, besides that little problem of yours,” Catra wasn’t sure what that meant, had she talked about a problem she was having? “I’m not ready to settle down and you are the kind of girl someone needs to marry,” Mermista said and Catra hit her on the arm in outrage.

“What does that mean?” Catra asked, scandalised.

“Stars, I mean your wife material? Why are you, like, mad at me?” Mermista said, her cheeks colouring as she rubbed her arm.

“You make it sound like a bad thing. I’ve fucked around plenty,” Catra defended needlessly.

“Oh yeah? And who breaks it off? Them or you?” Mermista asked and Catra was quiet as Mermista smirked. “It’s always you isn’t it?”

“Well yeah, they always get so attached!” Catra said and Mermista lightly smacked her arm in return.

“It's because they want to take you home to their mum,” Mermista teased and Catra scowled.

“Noo, I’m not old enough to be wife material!” Catra whined like she wasn’t a twenty six year old woman and Mermista hooked her arm around her neck.

“Yes you are. Now let's get you home before someone tries to, like, propose,” Mermista teased and Catra stumbled under Mermista’s extra weight. Maybe she had too much to drink after all.

“That's probably a good idea,” Catra said, putting her hand to her head as she felt a little dizzy. When the car arrived the driver spent far too much time looking in the mirror at them. Catra was pretty sure she had seen this driver before, but right now his moustache was creeping her out.

[...]

Adora was seriously considering eating the cookie dough raw like she was a pining 16 year old. She instead cut up the cookies and put them in the oven. She wasn’t sure if Finn would be asleep for the night but at least they could have cookies if they did wake up feeling better.

Adora didn’t want to admit that she was feeling lonely, but she was. It would be nice to have someone else to make cookies with. She checked on Finn a few times to make sure they were sleeping soundly. They seemed content to sleep and didn’t wake up for dinner.

Despite being lonely, Adora was enjoying her free afternoon and evening. A major meeting was cancelled due to a city wide power failure in Dryl so she decided to spend the extra time with Finn. That had not worked out, but she hadn’t baked since before Finn was born and it felt good to reclaim something that was lost after Melody left.

Adora sat on the couch, turned on the tv and muted it while she waited for the cookies to be done. Catra, in a pair of leather pants, was a sight that Adora didn’t know she was missing and now may never get out of her head.

She tried to distract herself by looking at the bookshelves as she sat on the couch. She felt guilty neglecting her books and went to the only book she opened regularly. It used to be her favourite.

She cracked the spine to look through the pages. All over the pages was red writing. After Melody was told about the prenup she had taken her time to write all over Adora’s favourite book. Melody was a special kind of petty. She had read the book before and told Adora that she loved it, but her red angry words reminded Adora that she was a perfect little liar.

Adora hadn’t looked at this book in months, but every time she did it helped to remind her why she didn’t date. She may be lonely right now, but she needed to date with intention because it wasn’t just her she had to think about. She had Finn and she needed to find someone they would like too. Adora turned to another page and noticed something she hadn’t noticed the last time she had read this book.

Neat pencil writing in the margins rebutting the red writing.

On this page was the first meeting of the main character and the love interest, Melody’s words read “SHE WAS A FOOL FOR FALLING FOR THIS!” in a jagged angry script. Catra’s rebuttal was simply “we are all fools in love.” Adora recognised the line from the book Catra had been reading the other night. Has Catra finished Pride and Prejudice already and started on this one? Adora felt embarrassed that Catra had seen these words meant for Adora’s heart only. Words just meant to hurt her.

Adora rarely read romance, but she enjoyed the few books she had read. This story was her favourite because the romance was the kind she not only wanted to give, but also receive. Melody knew that, but Catra didn’t. Catra was simply rebutting the text in the book, not knowing who wrote it and she did it in pencil in case Adora wanted to remove it. Catra was arguing against Melody’s cruelty and mockery simply because she disagreed, not because she knew it was Melody.

Adora felt warmth spread through her chest as she walked back to the couch, excited to read through her favourite book for the first time in years.

She paused her reading only to take the cookies out of the oven and eventually turned off the TV since she wasn’t giving it any of her attention. Adora didn’t notice the time passing until she heard the jingle of keys in the door.

She looked up as the door opened and felt panic shoot through her. What if Catra thought she was waiting up for her? What if Catra brought Mermista back here? Adora only managed to get to her feet before a tipsy looking Catra stumbled out of her shoes as she came down the hall.

“Woah,” Catra said, righting herself by leaning on the wall. She saw Adora and blushed as she still tried to pull her boot off with one hand.

“Are you alright?” Adora asked lamely and Catra nodded her head before she dropped her boots on the floor.

“Yeah,” Catra said, looking at the book in Adora’s hands and pointing to it. “Some bitch wrote in that book, also me, sorry,” Catra said and looked towards the kitchen as her ears perked up “omg, you made cookies?!” Catra asked with excitement and then immediately shhh’ed herself. “Finn’s sleeping,” she scolded herself as she went to the kitchen island and instead of walking around it she laid her whole torso on the surface to reach the cookies on the other side.

Adora tried to stay in the living room but she felt pulled towards Catra. In a way she wanted to repay Catra’s care of her when Adora was intoxicated, but really she wanted to know Catra was alright and more than that, she wanted to be in her presence.

“Here, I’ll make you a cup of tea,” Adora said, going into the kitchen and putting the kettle on.

“Yess, that would be amazing,” Catra said, pulling one of the stools closer to sit on. She managed to do it without falling on the ground which was impressive given she almost missed the seat completely. “Merm’s gave me shots,” Catra grumbled and laid her face on the cool marble counter top before she realised she couldn’t eat her cookie and sat up again.

Adora was trying to keep herself from smiling at Catra’s adorable actions and commentary. She didn’t want Catra to think she was laughing at her, but it was so cute. The kettle finished boiling and Adora made Catra’s tea just how she liked it. Adora slid Catra’s drink over the counter but not too close in case she knocked it over.

“Did you have a good night?” Catra asked as she ate her cookie. Adora considered the question. She had enjoyed her night in the end. As much as she loved Finn, it was nice to relax and do nothing of value while they slept.

“I did. Finn didn’t get up, so I have been reading,” Adora said motioning to the book she had placed on the counter while making tea.

“Amazing, I love reading,” Catra said, around the cookie in her mouth. Adora was reminded of Finn for a moment and smiled.

“I know. You’ve given my books the love they deserve,” Adora said regretfully.

“You should make more time to read them, you have some really good ones,” Catra said, sliding the warm tea closer to dunk her cookie in the liquid. Adora watched with interest as she leaned back against the counter top across from Catra.

“You can’t create time,” Adora said and Catra made a noise in her throat. It was possibly the cutest thing Adora had ever heard.

“You’re right, but you can prioritise. You only have one life, why would you spend all your time at work?” Catra asked, taking a bite out of her partly dunked, melted cookie and looking pleased with the outcome. Adora blinked at Catra. She had a point. “Not to mention, Finn is growing so fast, do you want to miss that?” Catra asked, and Adora’s chest tightened. Drunk Catra was blunt.

“Are you trying to lose your job?” Adora tried to joke, but it didn’t land over the tightness in her chest.

“Are you going to fire me for being drunk on my own time, boss?” Catra rebutted quickly, her eyes hooding in challenge and Adora felt her cheeks warm.

“Please don’t call me that,” Adora said and Catra made a whining noise before she muttered something under her breath. “I meant, that if I was home all the time, I wouldn’t need a Nanny,”

“Not true, you need time for yourself. You know, read a book, date, or whatever you want to do with your time,” Catra said, her cheeks colouring as she looked away. She finished her cookie and picked up her tea with both hands.

“I’m not sure what I would do with that much time,” Adora said honestly and Catra looked back at her with an almost sober look in her eyes.

“Maybe it's time to think about what you want,” Catra said and Adora nodded her head slowly. Catra finished her tea and slid out of her chair to put the mug on the sink. She seemed much more sober already and Adora wondered if it was her fast metabolism at work. Adora jumped when Catra put her hand on Adora’s shoulder and looked at her seriously.

“I need to be horizontal. Good talk,” Catra said, in one smooth movement she slipped off her jacket and Adora saw her top for the first time that night. Another mistake. Adora’s eyes were drawn to the window over her chest when Catra turned and walked back to the hallway. Adora had the good sense to look away before Catra bent down to pick up her shoes. Adora didn’t need anything else to haunt her.

“Goodnight,” Adora said and Catra parroted it back before going into her room. Adora wanted to know more about Catra’s night but she knew it wasn’t her place to ask. They weren’t friends and it wasn’t Adora’s business. She just wanted to know because she was nosey.

That was all.

Chapter Text

The weather was warming every day and Catra couldn’t wait for the hot summer months. She loved the warm sunlight for napping but she couldn’t wait to get a chance to go to the beach. She had such sweet memories of her childhood when she would spend all summer at the beach with her friends. They would swim all day and then spend fifty cents on a lemonade icy pole just to cool down on their walk home. It was days like that which made her always love the warmth of summer. 

The photos she took in those summers were the reason Catra fell in love with photography. She looked at those blurry images of smiling faces to remind her of how it felt to be in those moments. Since then, she strived to capture those sweet moments filled with nostalgia so she never forgot them. 

Catra dressed Finn in lighter clothing to help them keep cool for the day ahead. She laid out a few options as usual and let Finn pick their outfit. They wore a pair of cargo shorts and a baggy top that had the round-faced design of a narwhal on the chest. Finn looked tiny whenever they wore baggy clothing but this shirt in particular looked big enough to belong to Ms Grey. 

Catra wondered how Adora would look wearing this shirt but it was hard to imagine. She would still like to see it though. 

Finn’s dentist appointment was the first thing on their agenda and it was making Finn nervous. Finn was scared of the dentist because they believed that they would have a cavity and need a filling. Catra did her best to reassure them that because they always brushed their teeth they wouldn’t have to have a filling but they were still worried. 

Catra promised Finn that she would be with them the whole time and that seemed to help them relax. Finn held Catra's tail during the car ride to the appointment, running their little fingers through the longer fur at the tip as they looked out the window quietly. When Catra took them out of their car seat they refused to walk themselves inside as they buried their face into Catra’s neck to hide. Catra didn’t fight it, just purring to sooth them as she carried them into the building.  

The dentist office was fancy and it looked a little like a space ship. It was both high tech and clinical so it was no wonder Finn was nervous. The man at the front desk was welcoming and quick to get them signed in as Catra held Finn. Catra found a seat and adjusted Finn on her lap to cuddle as they waited. There were other kids here but none of them seemed keen to play with the toy provided and instead chose to stay close to their parents. Catra looked at the other children and noticed some were watching Finn enviously. She knew from her experience with kids that some children weren’t allowed to show that they were scared and were even less likely to be comforted even if they did. One child was trying to get their mothers attention while she looked at her phone and Catra wished she could give them what they wanted. But it wasn’t her place to do that. Catra could remember her own aversion to the dentist when she was young and she wanted to make this a positive experience for Finn. 

Juliet stood nearby as she always did when Catra and Finn were out of the house together. The waiting room was reasonably large and full of other people so Juliet stood close. Catra had originally thought it was embarrassing to have a body guard following them but she liked Juliet and it felt normal now that they knew each other better. 

The dental assistant called out for Finn and they clung to Catra tighter in response. Catra hefted them into her arms as she followed the assistant to their room. Juliet paused at the door, the room was small with only one seat for a parent to sit with their kid. Juliet looked conflicted about going into the room because of the small space. 

“I’ll call if we need you,” Catra offered and Juliet nodded before she stood gaurd outside the door. 

With some soft reassurances, Catra was able to get Finn to reluctantly stop clinging to her. They sat in the dentist chair and Catra moved her own chair closer without getting in the way.

The dentist was great with kids, offering Finn a Magicat toy that mimicked a soothing purr to help them relax. They explained all the steps to Finn so they didn’t feel as scared and Finn finally relented to them looking inside their mouth. 

Thankfully, Finn’s teeth were in perfect health and Finn didn’t need any fillings. The dentist mentioned to Catra that one of Finn’s baby teeth was a little loose and to keep an eye on it so the tooth ferret* could bring them a gift.   

Finn was excited and Catra made a mental note to look for a gift worthy of a Magicat tooth. 

After the dentist, Finn was back to their carefree self and excited to visit the toy store for their reward. When they arrived Finn knew exactly what they wanted and went to the wall of oversized plushies. They proceeded to hug each one in order to see which gave the best hugs, the winner would be the one they take home. Juliet was standing nearby as Catra looked at the strangely breakable glass statue on the higher shelves with interest. 

“You're family, right Juliet?” Catra asked into the silence that had settled between them. Catra dragged her eyes away from the statues to look at the woman in question. Catra knew Juliet was family of some kind, but she didn’t remember how she was related to Adora.

“Yes Ma’am, Adora is my niece” Juliet explained.

“Great, do you know if she is a dolphin girl or a horse girl?”  Catra asked looking back at the crystal statues, one of a horse and one of a dolphin. Juliet followed her gaze before she answered. 

“Oh, horses, definitely,” Juliet said with a small laugh.  

“Hm, interesting,” Catra said, glancing over at Finn who was holding a teddy that was bigger than them as they hugged it.  

“Why do you ask?” Juliet asked.

“Curiosity,” Catra said with a shrug. She was curious to gather all the puzzle pieces of Ms Grey that she could find, especially now that it was turning into such a pretty picture. 

“Do you like horses?” Juliet asked casually and Catra glanced at her. 

“I’ve never met one before, but they are beautiful,” Catra said with a shrug.

“They are. The Grey’s own a ranch full of them in the Crimson Desert, you know,” Juliet said and Catra blinked at her. 

“They own a ranch. Why?” Catra asked in disbelief. 

“It was a gift to Mr Grey,” Juliet said and Catra scoffed. It was a wild concept that a large property like a ranch could be a ‘gift’, but with the kind of money they had, it shouldn’t really surprise her. 

“Miss Catra, can I have this one please?” Finn called and Catra’s attention was captured by the small blond. Finn decided to get an Emperor Penguin toy because it was not only life sized but Finn claimed that it was very soft and gave good hugs. 

Catra was paying for the toy while Finn watched the cashier struggle to put the giant toy in a bag so it wouldn’t drag on the ground when Finn carried it. 

Catra glanced at the items around the counter as she waited and a fat little unicorn stress ball caught her attention. She smiled a little and added it to her purchases. She knew a horse girl who might like that. 

[...]

Catra was making lunch while Finn was trying to put some of their own clothing on their new toy. Catra was watching them from the kitchen as she cut up meat when her personal phone started to ring.  

Catra looked at the ID and it was her mum. Catra was tempted to call her back, but answered anyway. She was seeing her mum on Wednesday so maybe she needed Catra to bring something.  

“Hey mum, how are you?” Catra asked as she wedged the phone against her shoulder and ear. 

“Right as rain, how are you?” C’yra asked, her tone light and airy. 

“Good, pretty busy at the moment. Did you need something?” Catra asked, trying to work out if something was wrong as she continued to cut food. 

“Oh, sorry love. Just checking are you still coming over on Wednesday?” C’yra asked, sounding far too casual for Catra’s liking. 

“Yes, I am, did you want me to bring anything?” Catra asked, trying to work out what her mother wasn’t saying. 

“No no, just yourself,” C’yra said and Catra rolled her eyes, her mum was up to something. She was terrible at hiding it, as usual. 

“Sure, I can do that,” Catra said slowly as she tried to think of a way to get her mum to spill the information. 

“Miss Catra, look!” Finn called from the living room, their ears pointed with excitement before they realised she was on the phone and they ducked their head awkwardly. 

“Oh! They look great!” Catra responded to the presented penguin in a sailor suit. She didn’t even think about whether she should respond to Finn while on the phone to her mum. 

“Oh my! It's Monday! I forgot this was your day at child care, I’ll talk to you later,” C’yra said in a panic. 

“Its alright, love you,” Catra said. She would have to work out what was going on later. 

“Love you,” C’yra parroted and hung up the phone. Finn put down their toy and walked into the kitchen to watch Catra making food. 

“Who was that?” Finn asked curiously. 

“That was my mum,” Catra offered and Finn’s ears twitched with interest. 

“Is she nice?” Finn asked curiously and Catra smiled. 

“She’s very nice,” Catra assured, and Finn grinned. 

“That’s why you love her, right?” Finn asked innocently. 

“One of many reasons,” Catra agreed. 

“Am I nice?” Finn asked curiously and Catra grinned. 

“You are so nice and sweet Finny, one of your many good qualities,” Finn grinned and purred at the compliments before stealing a slice of ham and running back to the living room. Catra laughed and returned to her lunch preparations. 

[…]

Adora hated meetings with Mystacor, because they were five hours behind Bright Moon. The meetings were too early and that meant she couldn’t cuddle with Finn before work. The meeting was uneventful but unfortunately they had new discussions about the technology that was specific to She-ra. Adora hated talking about She-ra. Her father had made She-ra for Adora, and no other prosthetic they made was like it. It had the most advanced technology the company could afford, but the price of those advancements were far beyond consumer budgets to be marketable. 

The military had a very different budget than normal consumers, but Adora wasn’t interested. She wasn’t going to allow She-ra’s technology to be manipulated for war. Adam and Adora still held controlling shares in the company and despite how the investors begged, Adora wasn’t going to entertain this advancement. Their profit margins were already substantial, so everyone was already making plenty of money and she wasn’t going to allow them to get greedy.  

Adora’s early meeting was the reason Finn needed to be brought to her office by Catra for lunch on Tuesday. Adora could spend some time with her kitten and Catra could get an hour to herself, even if Catra didn’t seem to mind. Catra stayed for a few minutes to talk to Mermista before she went to find something to do with her freedom. 

Finn came into the office once Catra left and carefully placed a small ball in Adora’s lap. Adora picked up the ball to look at it. It looked like a round unicorn with too much stuffing, but it was soft to squish in her hand. Adora looked back at Finn as they settled into their chair and started arranging their pencils by colour on their desk. 

Adora had a few things to finish up before they went to lunch and Finn knew the drill.  

“Whats this?” Adora asked and Finn looked up. 

“Miss Catra bought it for you,” Finn said and Adora’s eyes widened at the information. 

“Miss Catra did…” Adora said looking back at the stress ball. She felt her cheeks warm, wondering if Catra bought it because she knew how stressed Adora had been lately. Adora couldn’t imagine Catra giving a gift maliciously like that, she wasn’t Melody after all. 

“That was nice of her,” Adora said and Finn grinned. 

“She bought me a penguin because my teeth were good,” Finn explained and Adora smiled. She didn’t remember a payment for the toy store coming off Catra’s company credit card. Adora knew Catra rarely used it, but surely buying Finn a reward was a work expense.  

“You take care of your teeth so its no wonder they are so good,” Adora praised Finn and they beamed, showing off their sharp white teeth. 

“Yeah, they said I have a loose one, so I might get a present when it falls out,” Finn continued and Adora chuckled. 

“I’m sure you’ll get a great gift for a tooth as special as yours,” Adora assured them and Finn’s tail lashed with excitement as they considered the information. Adora would look into getting something special for when Finn lost their tooth, she knew losing teeth was special to Magicats as a sign of their growth and maturity. 

“Yeah! Maybe two penguins,” Finn said starting a drawing with a black pencil in a big circle on the page. 

“You’ll have a whole colony in no time,” Adora said, watching them with affection. 

“Two mommy ones and a baby one is all I need,” Finn said and Adora’s stomach dropped. The older Finn got, the more it felt like the gap of what Adora could give them widened. She was only one person after all, and Finn needed another parent to help them grow and develop. As much as Adora wanted to do things on her own, she couldn’t do this and she owed Finn better than that. 

“That sounds good,” Adora said and let Finn focus on their drawing.

Adora wasn’t blind to the benefits of having a partner to rely on. She knew finding someone would be easy if her romantic heart didn’t wish for someone that she could also love. She wanted what was best for Finn, and finding someone for them would be easy. Finn was adorable and kind and friendly, and anyone who met them fell in love instantly. But finding someone to love Adora was harder. She wasn’t afraid to care for her partner and give them everything money could buy, but she was afraid of that being all she was good for. She wanted to be romanced, to be swept off her feet and to feel loved like she never felt with Melody. 

She just didn’t know how to find that, or more importantly, how to open up enough to let someone love her like that. 

[…] 

A family dinner at Moon Mansion to celebrate Angella’s birthday would be a sight to behold. Catra was sure it would be a hell of an event with so many people. Catra had spent most of her afternoon playing at the park with Finn expecting them to be tired enough to nap on the way to Angella’s but they were buzzing with excitement instead. 

When they arrived at the Moon Mansion Catra got out of the car and went to get Finn out of their car seat. Catra pulled Finn out and put them on the ground as they wiggled with excitement.

“Mama!” Finn yelled and ran up the steps to the house. Catra looked up as Ms Grey scooped up the little blonde bundle into her arms. Catra smiled at the sight. Ms Grey always looked her happiest with Finn in her arms. 

Catra looked around as another car pulled up to the estate behind them and Ms Grey walked down to meet her.

“WILDCAT” Scorpia’s voice boomed and Catra jumped at the loud sound. She closed the door to the car and it pulled forward to park. 

“Scorpia? What are you doing here?” Catra asked as Ms Grey approached Perfuma to press a kiss on her cheek and share a hug. Finn seemed unsure of Perfuma but reluctantly participated in the hug. 

Scorpia came straight over and wrapped Catra in a careful hug which she returned as her brain tried to fill in the details.  

“It’s family dinner so Perfuma invited me,” Scorpia offered.

“Oh of course, I forgot Opal is dating Angella,” Catra said with a little laugh and Scorpia grinned. 

“Small world right?” Scorpia offered and Catra nodded. “Are you joining us for dinner?” Scorpia asked as Perfuma and Ms Grey joined them and Scorpia shook her hand in greeting. Scorpia was a hugger, so it was strange to see her shaking hands with anyone. It all made sense when Catra glanced at Finn who was hiding shyly from Scorpia in their mothers shoulder. Scorpia was a hugger but she wasn't about to scare a kid by hugging too soon.   

“Oh, um, no, I’m not,” Catra said awkwardly. She was just here to deliver Finn to Ms Grey then she could go home to make dinner for herself and maybe read.  

“You are welcome to join us, if you would like,” Ms Grey said and Catra felt butterflies fill her stomach as a warm look came to Ms Grey’s eyes. Catra was so distracted by the expression that she forgot to think of any reason at all to say no. 

“Oh…ok,” Catra said, softly, a little stunned. She could see Perfuma and Scorpia look at each other in the corner of her eye but she couldn’t look away to understand their expressions.  

“Great!” Scorpia said with excitement and looped her arm with Catra to drag her into the house. Catra was suddenly filled with nerves and glanced at Perfuma for reassurance. Perfuna just smiled, looking incredibly pleased that Catra was joining them. 

Once they were inside Ms Grey put Finn on the ground and they ran up to Catra to grab her hand. 

“Come play with Mama and me in the game room,” Finn said quickly and looked at their mother. Adora nodded her head. 

“I’ll be in shortly, I just need to advise the staff of our new addition, and find your grandmother,” Adora said. 

Scorpia and Perfuma followed Finn through the house and Ms Grey disappeared into the maze of halls and rooms.  

“How have you been, Catra?” Perfuma asked gently as they entered the games room. Angel was already in the room playing with the train set and a small fluffy dog. 

“Angel!” Finn crowed with excitement and ran to tackle them. The little fluffy dog barked excitedly as Angel yelped and laughed. Once the hug was over Finn crouched to speak to the dog. “Hi Pixie, how are you?” they asked and the dog ran in circles excitedly. 

“I’ve been good. Mostly just busy,” Catra said. Finn wasn’t focused on playing with her yet so she turned her attention to Perfuma.

“A live in position is hard to not be busy,” Perfuma said as Scorpia immediately set to making friends with Pixie and talk to Angel and Finn until they allowed her to play with them. 

“Yeah, it is. How have you been?” Catra asked in return, and Perfuma talked about her cafe with equal parts serene love for her job and exhaustion. She talked about Scorpia’s work too and how she's been caring for triplets lately and they were a handful. After a little chatting and some games with the kids, Angel warmed to Catra quickly but they didn't get much time to play before everyone was called to the dining room. 

Entering a room of almost twenty people was a little overwhelming but at least she knew some faces. Adam was already sitting in a seat that had been turned towards the other family members still standing. There was an elderly man and woman sitting at the table talking quietly to each other.

When Catra entered the room the elderly woman with giant glasses tapped the man's hand quickly so he would look over. 

Catra was relieved when she saw Ms Grey spot her and excuse herself from the conversation she was having with Adam and Mara. Looks were exchanged between Adam and Mara when Adora departed but Catra was focused on Adora. Adora's face was relaxed and her smile was gentle. She looked in her element like Catra hadn't seen before, completely surrounded by her rediculously sized family. 

Stars, she’s beautiful.  

Finn pulled at Catra’s hand and she looked away from Adora to see their ears flicked back. Catra could see in Finn’s blue eyes that they were getting tired. Finn motioned silently before being picked up and placed on Catra's hip. She looked back as Adora arrived before her.

“Let me introduce you to everyone,” Adora offered and Catra smiled in relief. She knew the names of each family member but putting a face to the name would have been tricky without help.  

“That would be great, thank you,” Catra said and Adora motioned to follow her. Adora started with the closest group, which consisted of Juliet and another women who seemed to be around Angella’s age. 

“You know Juliet but this is Casta. Casta this is Catra,” Adora offered and Catra adjusted Finn on her hip to offer her hand to shake. Casta shook her hand and looked her up and down but Catra wasn’t sure how to take the look. 

“Both Casta and Juliet are my aunts. Juliet is my late mother's sister, and Casta is Angella’s late husband’s sister. But they have been dating for about 10 years at this point,” Adora explained the strange dynamic.

“Eight and a half,” Casta corrected and Juliet rolled her eyes. 

“It's close enough, love,” Juliet said and Casta pouted.

“It is not, I would have knitted you a 10 year sweater if it was 10 years,” Casta said and Catra grinned at the cute interaction. It was nice to see Juliet relaxed when she wasn’t working and the look she gave her partner was absolutely smitten. 

“Stars forbid that happens,” Juliet said, pulling Casta closer by the waist, causing her to blush. “It’s nice to meet you Catra, we’ve heard a lot about you,” Casta continued and Catra glanced at Juliet at that admittance. 

“Oh yeah?” Catra asked curiously. 

“Not by me, I am sworn to secrecy,” Juliet said with a smile. Catra glanced at Adora, wondering if she had said something about Catra to her aunt. 

“Angella loves to gossip,” Casta explained with a laugh as she leaned closer to Catra as if she was about to tell her something juicy. Catra was surprised when Ms Grey put her hand on Catra’s back to steer her away instead.

“Anyway, lots of people to meet,” Ms Grey said and Catra allowed herself to be led away. Adora leaned down to speak into her ear. “It's best to not get them started, they can talk for hours about gossip,” Adora said and Catra felt her cheeks warm as she looked at Adora. 

“I know someone just like that,” Catra said, thinking of her mother. 

“Don’t we all,” Ms Grey said, putting distance between them but not removing her hand. They stopped at the group which had Mara, Adam and a woman Catra hadn’t met yet. 

“You know Adam and unfortunately Mara,” Adora said with great affection for her older sister. Mara scoffed theatrically. 

“Rude. We got along well, didn’t we?” Mara asked before she winked at Catra. Ms Grey’s hand moved from her back abruptly and Catra adjusted Finn on her hip carefully. Finn was finally getting sleepy after spending most of the afternoon at the park. 

“If you call getting told off ‘getting along’,” Catra said playfully and Mara grinned. 

“I call that getting along very well,” Mara said with a playful smile in return. Adora cleared her throat. 

“This is Teela, Adam’s wife,” Adora said and Catra offered her hand and Teela shook. Teela was tall and toned with long red hair, she honestly looked like a supermodel. 

“Great to meet you Catra, I’m glad you could join us,” Teela said and Catra smiled. 

“Thanks, it’s nice to meet you too,” Catra said, adjusting Finn again as they started to become a sleepy dead weight on her hip.   

“Do you want me to take them?” Adora offered, already moving to get them, but Catra moved so she couldn’t. A soft purr springing to life in Finn’s chest as she refused to give them up warmed her heart.  

“I played at the park all afternoon to get these sleepy cuddles. You wait your turn,” Catra said playfully and Adora looked surprised before a small smile came to her lips.

“Fine, but tell me if you need help,” Adora asked and Catra nodded.

“I will,” Catra said, bouncing the sleepy bundle she held as she rubbed their back. 

“Is Demetre coming?” Adora asked Mara and she shook her head. 

“No Dad’s in Dryl at the moment, on some project,” Mara said, rolling her eyes and Ms Grey nodded. 

“I assume Abigail won't be here then?” Adora asked another name that Catra knew from the list but hadn’t met. 

“Granny’s not been well. The dementia is getting pretty bad so Dad put her into care so she couldn’t hurt herself,” Mara said, her brows creased with concern. 

“I’m sorry to hear that. How is she taking it?” Adora asked and Mara shrugged as she smiled. 

“She loves it, she's been out socialising everyday and she got in trouble for selling snacks to the other residents. So, she's having a blast,” Mara said with a mischievous smile.

“Sounds like Abigail to be honest. I’m glad someone is watching her,” Adora said with a small chuckle that sent a shiver racing down Catra’s back. She adjusted Finn to cover her reaction but the heat that came to her face was harder to hide. Adora’s soft carefree chuckle was becoming Catra’s new addiction.  

“Razz would love to go to a retirement village but she doesn’t want to leave her garden,” Adam said casually as Finn perked up from their sleepy state to look at their uncle. 

“Uncle Adam,” they said with excitement and Adam grinned. Finn leaned like they wanted Adam to take them and Catra looked at Adam for confirmation.

Adam moved in his seat carefully and reached out to take the blond from Catra. Adam carefully put them on their lap and Finn was excitedly explaining their day at the park to them. Adam looked completely captured by their stories just like Adora was when Finn told them tales. 

Adora was talking to Mara about someone called Razz and Teela was nodding along. Catra glanced over at the table to the two elderly people were sitting talking before the woman spoke up loudly. 

“I can hear you talking about me,” She said, scowling at Mara and Adora. Mara laughed, but stopped their discussion regardless. Teela leaned closer to Catra to whisper.

“Razz is known for her selective hearing,” Teela said softly and Catra smiled.  

“The perks of getting old, I guess,” Catra said and Teela laughed. Catra felt a tug on her sleeve and half expected to see Finn but was surprised to see Frosta instead. 

“Oh, hey Frosta,” Catra said and Frosta crossed her arms. 

“The petting zoo idea got approved. Mum will send you details of when it's happening so you can bring Finn,” Frosta said, like her mum was her secretary or something and Catra grinned. 

“That’s great to hear, you should tell Angel as well, they might enjoy it too,” Catra suggested and Frosta considered it for a moment before nodding. 

“Good point,” Frosta said, walking away towards the Moon family.

“I think that's the most I’ve ever heard Frosta say,” Teela said and Catra looked at her with surprise.

“Really?” Catra asked, she had hardly heard Frosta stop talking since they had met so it was hard to believe. 

“Yeah, I think it's hard for her being the youngest,” Teela said and Adora turned to Catra. 

“You’ve met Bow and Glimmer, so I’ll introduce you to Archie and Razz,” Adora said and Catra nodded. Finn seemed content with their uncle so she followed Adora to the table. 

“Papa Archie, Grandma Razz, this is Catra,” Adora introduced and Razz looked at Catra with consideration. 

“Oh yes, your girlfriend. We’ve already met dear,” Razz said and Catra blushed. Adora made a strange sound in her throat that seemed like a mix between a whine and choking.

“Oh, no Razz, this is my Nanny, she takes care of Finn,” Adora rushed to explain and Razz looked at Catra through her thick glasses before she turned to look back at Adora. 

“That's ridiculous. Why would you bring your Nanny to family dinner?” Razz said and Adora was blushing as she was caught off guard. 

Stars, she was so cute. 

“She has a point,” Catra giggled, realising how funny this really was now that Ms. Grey was as embarrassed as she was by the accusation. Razz motioned to Catra like ‘see’ with her hands.

“Don’t agree with her,” Adora said in a firm tone that absolutely ruined Catra. Catra’s eyes widened as her body had a very unexpected reaction to her tone. Catra’s fur fluffed up as lightning raced down her spine. Adora thankfully read her reaction as a surprise and rushed to explain. “Sorry, she gets confused and if you don’t correct her she will remember it forever,” Adora explained and Catra nodded. 

“Sorry, I didn’t realise,” Catra said, recovering quickly and offering her hand to Razz to shake.

“I’m Catra. I’m the Nanny, not a girlfriend,” Catra said and Razz watched her critically before she took her hand.

“Hm, not yet then. My mistake,” Razz said cryptically and Catra frowned in confusion. 

“Archie,” Adora said, a little louder, touching his arm. He looked towards Adora and smiled brightly. 

“Adora, my dear girl, and who's this?” Archie asked, looking at Catra curiously. 

“Catra, the nanny,” Catra said, offering her hand to shake again but he took it and kissed the back softly like the old fashion man he was.  

“How lovely. Nice to meet you,” Archie said and Catra smiled. Archie’s eyes were dark, almost black but they held great warmth to them. His face was round and friendly with many years of laugh lines etched on his face. He had deep lines on his forehead like he was often surprised but rarely angry. What a sweet man. 

Adora cleared her throat. 

“Grandma Razz is my late father's mother, and Papa Archie is Angella’s father-in-law,” Adora explained and Catra nodded her head in understanding. “Great, we have some more introductions to make, so please excuse us,” Adora said and put her hand on Catra’s back to lead her away. Catra tried to keep her breath even from the touch but it was short lived after the unusually high number of heart racing things Adora was doing. Adora was in her element and Catra felt so blessed to witness her in such a state without being intoxicated. Unfortunately for Catra, it was alarmingly attractive. 

“They can be a lot,” Adora explained simply.

“It's sweet. They clearly care about you greatly,” Catra said and Adora nodded in agreement.

“Have you met Opal?” Adora asked, leading Catra over to the Moon and Plum section of the family. Bow grinned brightly at Catra as she approached and Angel looked tired as he leaned on his dad's leg. Glimmer was talking quickly to Perfuma about something Catra couldn’t catch and Opal and Angella were talking and making goo goo eyes at each other. 

“I have once or twice,” Catra said and they didn’t need to explore that further because the butler announced that dinner was ready so they had not time for more introductions.

Adora excused herself from Catra’s side to help Mara adjust Adam’s chair to sit correctly and Teela helped Finn to their chair. Catra approached the table, unsure if there were seating arrangements when Angella appeared at her side. 

“Catra, I’m glad you could join us,” Angella said, her expression open and warm like every time Catra had met her. Catra smiled. 

“Thanks for having me,” she said and glanced at the table again, her confusion was clearly showing. 

“Let me show you to your seat,” Angella said and Catra felt a sense of relief. Catra quickly saw a pattern emerging as people sat at the table, the siblings on every second chair and their partners on their left. There was a kids table too which was more appropriately sized for Finn, Angel and surprisingly Frosta to enjoy their dinner. 

Catra noticed Adora take the seat at one head of the table and Catra could only assume it used to be her father's chair. Angella led Catra to the seat at Adora’s left. 

“Angie,” Adora said firmly as she noticed whatever Angella was doing. Ms Grey frowned and Angella simply shrugged. 

“What? It's the only available spot,”  Angella said, waving down the table as everyone settled into their chairs. 

“That's not true, the spot beside Mara is empty,” Ms Grey argued and Angella looked half way down the table to the empty seat in question. 

“Oh, you’re right, would you rather sit with Mara?” Angella asked, looking at Catra with amusement. Catra wasn’t sure what was happening but she would rather sit with Adora than Mara. She was sure Mara and her would bicker all through dinner, no one wanted to see that. 

“It's fine,” Adora interrupted, and motioned for Catra to sit. Catra wasn’t sure what she had missed but Adora seemed more tense than she had been only moments ago. Was Catra doing something wrong without even knowing it? 

Angella looked pleased with herself before she went to the other end of the table to her seat beside Opal. Catra paused before she took her seat at the table. 

Teela was sitting across from Catra and winked at her, like Catra was meant to know what all this meant. Catra smiled and glanced at Adora who was watching Angella down the table with a displeased look on her face. 

Dinner was nice and conversation flowed easily. Catra was lucky that she had Glimmer on her left and Teela across the table from her, and they were both curious about her upbringing and what she was studying. 

Ms Grey didn’t talk much through dinner but she was obviously listening to Catra as she told stories about her childhood and her mum. Teela asked plenty of questions about her studies and Catra explained her masters project with enthusiasm. 

Catra didn’t notice until the table fell silent that more people were listening to her ranting about the importance of supporting children and families trying to do the right thing. She blushed as she realised they were watching her and she fell silent. 

“It’s very admirable work,” Adora said, breaking the silence and Catra smiled at her gratefully. 

“Well someone has to do it and I have experience, so who better to do it than me?” Catra asked and Adora gave a small smile and nod. 

“What do you do on your days off?” Glimmer asked and Catra turned her attention to her. 

“Usually read. Tomorrow I’m seeing my mum,” Catra explained as chatter resumed on the table and Glimmer tipped her head. 

“Do you like shopping?” Glimmer asked and Catra shrugged a little. She took a bite of her chicken and it melted in her mouth like it was made of butter. The food had been amazing all night, blowing her mind with every new dish that came out. 

“I don’t mind it, but I like second hand shops better than boutiques,” Catra said and Glimmer looked curious.

“I’ve never been, maybe we could go together some time?” Glimmer asked and Catra smiled. 

“Me too, I’d love to get something vintage for the baby,” Teela said and Glimmer gasped.

“What baby?!” She asked and Teela grinned. 

“Oh, we’re pregnant!” Teela said now that she had the table's attention. Everyone jumped up and dinner was quickly forgotten in the rush to congratulate the expecting couple. 

Adora was watching her family with a small smile on her face and Catra smiled to match it. Catra didn’t have experience with big families herself, but she wondered if this was what it would have been like, if she was born into a family so large and full of love.

[...]

Catra arrived at her mum’s house just after six to find dinner was already made and set out on the table. Catra gulped nervously, she had seen this method before. 

The last time Catra saw her mother use it, C'rya had been trying to get information out of Catra about a girl she had been seeing. Catra wasn’t one to kiss and tell. She preferred to keep things between herself and her partner. Unfortunately, for her, her mother loved to gossip and loved to hear all about Catra’s love life. Catra had no idea what C’yra thought was going on, but Catra wasn’t seeing anyone right now. 

Catra greeted her mother with a hug and a purr as she rubbed her cheek to hers. She had barely sat down at the table before C’yra started her questinging, it seemed she was unable to hold back any longer. 

“How was your trip to the zoo?” C’yra asked and Catra blinked at her in confusion. Catra was sure she hadn’t told her mum about her zoo trip with the Greys. The trip in reality would only cause more questions for Catra.

“…Good…How did you…?” Catra asked confused and C’yra grabbed one of her magazines which was still on the tablet and dramatically flipped it over to show Catra a photograph.

Catra looked at the image with wide eyes. The visit to the zoo was burnt into her memory so she hadn’t forgotten the moment shown in the picture, but it was strange to see it from an outside perspective. 

“I think its a rather good photo of you. I might frame it,” C’yra teased. 

Adora, Catra and Finn visited the bird section of the zoo during their trip. They entered a large cage to look at the birds in a more natural environment and hopefully feed some ducks. Finn had run slightly ahead of them to look at the strangely coloured ducks in a little pond with their bag of approved food. 

Catra and Adora had been walking side by side on the wooden path when a parrot swooped Catra. Catra wasn’t super into birds, especially the swooping kind, but when she was startled she ducked into Ms Grey’s side to hide. 

Ms Grey had simply put her hand out to the bird and it landed there like she was some kind of Disney Princess. A photo of Catra tucked into Ms Grey’s side without Finn visible made them look like something they weren’t. They looked like a couple.

“Oh…” Catra said, her brain running through a million options of how she could avoid telling her mother about her job and that she delayed her masters program.

“You didn’t tell me you knew Ms Grey!” C’yra said like this was a tragedy. “How did you meet? Is this a date?” C’yra asked excitedly as she put her hands to her cheeks and leaned forward to listen. 

“No. It's not a date. I uh…” Think, think, think. “Ms Grey’s kid is a Magicat. Scorpia knows the family and mentioned me, so she asked for help with Magicat stuff for Finn,” Catra said, scrambling for a lie to tell her mother that wouldn’t break her heart like the truth would. The truth that Catra didn’t get a scholarship for her masters this year and she was lying about getting free accommodation as well. 

“Oh! That’s so sweet. You should bring them around. I would be happy to help. Mother to mother,” C’yra said excitedly and Catra smiled. 

“I’ll let her know,” Catra said and C’yra took the magazine back to look at the picture. 

“You two sure seem cuddly in this picture,” C’yra said, smirking slightly as she looked back at her daugheter. 

“We’re just friends,” Catra assured as colour bloomed over her cheeks. She did not need her mother to read into this any more than she already was.

“Uh huh,” C’yra said, looking unconvinced “Well, I look forward to meeting your ‘friend’ and Finn,” C’yra said getting to her feet and going to the kitchen to pick up the scissors. 

“What are you doing?” Catra asked curiously. 

“Cutting out the picture, my daughter is famous!” C’yra rejoiced and Catra rolled her eyes with an affectionate laugh. 

Chapter Text

The monthly Sunday morning markets that took place at the bay were one of Catra’s favourite rituals. She had the day off work so she spent the morning with Scorpia and Perfuma walking around the stalls in the fresh seaside air. They ate street food as they enjoyed the sunshine on this brisk spring morning. Catra bought homemade magicat soap for her mum and a small hand carved wooden toy that was a common gift from the Tooth Ferret for a magicat tooth. 

Catra didn’t want to risk not having something if Finn’s tooth came out sooner than expected, so she bought the gift with full intention to get more treasures if she had more time. 

The sun was high in the sky when Catra returned to the Greyskull residents. She called out that she was home but heard no reply from the quiet penthouse. She assumed that Ms Grey had taken Finn out somewhere and went about putting her things away in her room before she made herself a cup of tea to enjoy on the deck.

Catra took her tea and a book to enjoy in the warm spring sun. When she went outside Swifty was already sleeping in the sun by the vertical garden so Catra carefully stepped around him to get to the table in the sun. 

Catra realised with a soft pattering of her heart that she wasn’t home alone after all. Adora sat low on one of the wooden chairs with her feet up on a second chair and Finn snuggled into her arms as they napped in the sun together. They looked completely dead to the world enjoying the warm afternoon and Catra wished she had brought her camera to capture the sweet moment. 

She still wanted to take a photo as a memory so she sat down at the table where she took out her phone. She took the rare photo on her phone camera before she settled in her chair to read her book and drink her tea.

Catra was engrossed in her book and wasn’t watching the time as she sat listening to the rush of the wind as it whipped around the building and the distant sound of the street below. The loud snores of Swifty was only overshadowed but the confident purr of the blonde magicat as they slept. 

Adora softly groaned as she attempted to move positions to get more comfortable and was trapped. Adora blinked open her eyes blearily as she frowned in confusion. Catra watched her as she bit her lip to stop from making a sound at how cute Adora’s sleepy, confused face was. Adora noticed Catra and looked at her with wide eyes. 

“Hi,” Adora whispered, trying to push herself into a sitting position with Finn laying on her. Catra giggled a little at her attempt to move with the bundle in her arms. 

“Its great weather for napping,” Catra greeted, putting her book down and stretching herself into a more comfortable position before she relaxed. “I was just thinking about doing the same,” Catra commented and looked back at Adora who looked away quickly.

“Finn likes to nap in the sun,” Adora said as she finally managed to sit up and Finn adjusted without waking up. 

“Finn and I often come out here in the afternoon when the suns out,” Catra agreed and Adora nodded. Adora came home after dark commonly and Catra wondered if she missed the sun on those days.    

“Its very nice in the sun,” Adora said and looked down at Catra’s book. “What are you reading?” She asked. 

Catra picked up the book to show Ms Grey the cover. She looked too surprised to see the name of the book like it wasn’t one in her library. Catra had been reading this book that the Grey’s owned but the big red writing was ruining her enjoyment of the story. So, Catra went and bought her own copy the day before and decided to let whatever demons lived in that book be forgotten. Adora didn’t respond as the time stretched between them while she stared at Catra quietly. 

“Are you enjoying it?” Adora asked in a small voice. Catra didn’t understand why she seemed so timid about the book but she smiled. 

“I am, its a sweet story. I think it's a little silly and dramatic in places, but it makes it really fun to read,” Catra said looking at the cover as she considered bringing up why she bought her own copy. It seemed strange to Catra to keep a book with so much negativity written into its pages. Catra wondered why Adora held onto those words so tightly. 

Catra remembered Adora reading that book when she got home from the bar and she hadn’t really expected her to look at it after it was so harshly criticised. But Adora was there, reading that book around the big red words that Catra couldn’t stomach. Catra added her own opinion in pencil only because the harsh words angered her. They were unjustified and came across as someone just trying to be hurtful. Whoever did it, didn’t read the book properly. 

Catra hadn’t considered that the writing might have been Adora’s. It seemed out of character for her to be so unkind to a book when she had proved to show them so much respect. Catra didn’t know Ms Grey that well and people could be unpredictable when they were angry, but still, she didn’t think Adora had it in her. 

“It’s my favourite book,” Adora said softly as she moved Finn on her lap and lifted her feet from the other chair so she could sit up straight. Catra smiled but it dimmed a little as she realised that someone else really did tarnish her favourite book. It was malicious and intentional, who would do something like that? 

“Then who-” Catra started, unable to keep her curiosity to herself but she forced herself to stop. It felt too personal to ask who did that to her book. It would have to be someone who knew Adora well enough to know how to hurt her, and that suggested intimacy and vulnerability. Ms Grey had such a steady, protective hold on her heart, and Catra wondered, not for the first time, who made her this way. 

“My ex. She is a vindictive woman,” Adora said with a shrug as she glanced down at Finn’s face to make sure they were still sleeping and pressed a kiss to their head. Catra looked at Finn too, their little ears twitching as they dreamed, a steady purr coming from their chest as their chubby cheek was smooshed against their mother's shoulder. 

“I’m sorry for what she did to your book,” Catra said gently and Adora gave her a little smile. 

“Thank you,” she said genuinely and Catra felt warmth fill her chest at the sight. 

Catra and Adora relaxed into easy silence between them until Finn woke from their nap hungry and full of energy. Adora lead them inside so she could make them all a late lunch to enjoy in the sun. 

#

Adora wanted to keep a professional distance from Catra, but it felt too easy to be drawn in. It was like Adora was a planet and Catra was a bright shining star offering her warmth and to breath new life into her bones. Adora wanted to be closer, and the very act of wanting made it dangerous. She didn’t want to be burned, and she didn’t want to overstep the confines of their working relationship. 

In reality Adora needed to keep her distance and leave Catra in peace. Catra hadn’t offered any details of her date on Friday, and Adora didn’t dare ask. She knew it was overstepping and it was private but it consumed her mind as she wondered if Catra had enjoyed her time with Mermista and if they would go out again. It was none of her business to know. Yes, it might effect which days Catra could work, she might swap Friday night and Sunday morning so she could go on more dates but that wasn’t a big change to make if Catra needed it. Adora could adapt.    

It was late in the evening when the first strikes of lightning spread like branches across the city skyline. The day was moody and grey as the weather quickly changed from the sunny weekend and rain settled on the city. The drizzling rain in the afternoon soon made way for strong winds, causing a howl as it whipped around the buildings. The penthouse was only on the 12th floor so it was a relief that the building didn’t rock the way her office did on very windy days.  

Adora was getting dressed in her pyjamas when she saw the light flash outside her windows and worry filled her chest. Tonight would be a long night for Finn because they were terrified of storms. The storm that was forecast was meant to miss the city completely, but apparently the weather man had once again gotten it wrong.  

Adora counted the seconds from the lightning strike as she left her room heading to Finn’s. The deep rumbling of the thunder surrounded the penthouse as the rain loudly arrived to fill the penthouse with white noise. The rain was almost enough to cover Swifty’s “boof” in response to the noise as he skittered out of his bed to join Adora in the hall. 

Adora opened Finn’s door a crack. If she was lucky they would still be asleep and could stay undisturbed through the storm. Adora could see the lump under the blankets trembling and realised that they had woken to the sound. 

“Finny,” Adora said softly as she approached the bed and pulled back the blankets to reveal her scared little kitten. Adora quickly scooped them up into her arms and held them against her chest. They had a system for nights like these so Finn could stay in her room and they rode out the storm together. Finn clung on to Adora as they trembled and Adora rubbed their back to sooth them as she moved back towards her room. 

Adora cursed herself for not being more decisive in her quest to get Finn some sound cancelling headphones for storms like these, but with summer coming, she foolishly believed that she had time to consider all her options. She would get them soon, because as long as they worked that was better than nothing.   

“Wait, we have to get Miss Catra,” Finn said as Swifty whined as he butted his big head against Adora’s thigh and she pet his head. Swifty didn’t love storms either, loud sounds were never going to be fun for anyone with better hearing than a human. 

“I’m sure Miss Catra can handle herself,” Adora said gently and Finn shook their head adamantly. 

“No, we have to get her, what if she's scared too?” Finn asked, clearly pained by the idea that Catra was scared and alone. Finn was trying to be brave and Adora didn’t want to deny their courageous act. There was no harm in asking after all. 

“Okay, we can ask,” Adora agreed and Finn hid in her shoulder again as Adora crossed the hall to Catra’s door. She knocked gently. It was late so it was possible that Catra was asleep and if she was then Adora didn’t want to wake her.  

The door cracked open after a short pause and Catra was standing there in her pyjamas looking curious. She seemed fine, and Adora felt a little silly for disturbing her. 

Adora opened her mouth to offer her invitation when another rumble of thunder filled the house. Adora held Finn tightly as they hid in her shoulder and tried to offer whatever comfort she could. The thunder ended and as it quieted Adora heard a soft, frightened whimper. She thought it was Finn or Swifty but she realised she was wrong. It came from Catra. Catra had her eyes closed at the sound and her face was pinched with discomfort while she held her hands in trembling fists. 

Catra was afraid?

When Catra opened her eyes, her pupils the size of pinpricks, Adora was grateful Finn suggested this. Adora would have felt horrible if she had left Catra alone with her fear. 

“We are going to hold up in my room till the storm passes, would you like to join us?” Adora asked in a gentle tone she reserved for Finn. Catra looked unsure and embarrassed but she seemed to be seriously considering the offer. 

“Um, yes, thank you,” Catra agreed and Adora gave her what she hoped was a reassuring smile. Adora led her little party of terrified companions back to her room. 

Catra walked into the room and stood by the door, looking unsure of herself in this space.
Adora was reminded that this was the second time that Catra had been in her room, but at least this time Adora would remember it. 

Adora pulled back her bedding and laid Finn in the middle of the large bed so they could get comfortable. Finn snuggled down into the pillows and blankets until another rumble of thunder sent them under the covers to hide. 

Adora looked at Swifty and he eyed the bed hopefully. 

“Fine, just this once,” Adora rolled her eyes, usually he wasn’t allowed on the furniture but in these circumstances, Adora would allow it. Swifty perked up before jumping onto the bed to settle at the end. Adora turned to her final guest and Catra was still standing awkwardly by the door. She looked scared but nervous too. 

“Are you okay?” Adora asked. 

“Yeah.” Catra nodded her head as she stepped further into the room. Adora picked up the remote that controlled her curtains when Catra stopped her. “Can you leave the curtains open? It's easier to tell when the thunder is coming if we can see the lightning,” Catra said softly as a flash of lighting lit up the sky. Adora nodded as she put the remote down and settled into bed before Finn crawled to hide in her arms.
 
Catra came closer and sat on the bed without getting under the blankets as her fur slowly fluffed up in the cold. Adora could see - from years of experience reading Finn’s body language - that Catra was trying to hide her discomfort, but her body showed all the signs if someone knew what to look for. 

“You can get under the blankets,” Adora offered gently as she stroked Finn’s hair to sooth them. Finn watched Catra curiously as they waited for the thunder that would follow the lightning.

“I know,” Catra rebutted a little defensively before moving the blankets back and getting under the covers. Finn moved so they were between Adora and Catra on the bed before they took Catra’s hand gently. Catra looked surprised. Finn was trying to show they weren’t scared so Catra wouldn’t be scared either. Adora was so proud of them. 
 
“It’s okay Miss Catra, if it gets really scary Mama will sing to us,” Finn said and Adora felt her cheeks burn. She only ever sang for Finn and never anyone else. She sang to Melody once and it was not well received. It was hard to shake that memory every time she sang to her kitten over the years. Adora pushed through her embarrassment for them but she wasn’t ready to hear those words again.  

Catra smiled at Finn as another rumble of thunder rattled the windows and both magicat’s closed their eyes. The storm was getting closer and louder. Adora pet Finn’s ears as they tried not to hide under the blankets at the sound.

“That sounds really nice actually,” Catra said softly as she opened her eyes and looked at Adora with a slightly pleading expression. Adora felt her heart pick up under her two toned gaze and had to stamp down the feelings that bubbled in her chest. Adora looked between the two sets of eyes requesting her to sing and decided that her embarrassment was a small price to pay for their comfort. 

Adora tried to think of a song but she mostly knew nursery rhymes and Finn’s music that they played in the car. She tried to think of any other songs she knew and they were all from the 80’s or from the ballet performances she was in. Adora realised she really needed to listen to more music for occasions like this. 

“You are my sunshine,” Adora started and Catra giggled at her choice. “My only sunshine,” Adora continued as Catra and Finn watched her with rapped attention. 

While Adora sang, the thunder came and went as the Magicats focused on her voice. By the time the thunder was moving away, Catra and Finn were snuggled together and breathing deeply as they slept. Adora could hear Swifty’s monstrous snores and was content to enjoy the sound of the rain while everyone rested around her. 

Despite the addition of another frightened wayward soul, this storm seemed to pass with much less stress and fear than the last. Adora hoped that meant Finn wasn’t as scared as they used to be of the storms, but a part of Adora considered if maybe the addition of another adult that Finn trusted made them feel just a little bit safer. 

Adora rubbed Finn’s tiny fingers as she held their hand. Catra’s ears were twitching like Finn’s did when they dreamed and Adora was only further charmed with every piece of information she learnt about Catra. 

Adora clicked the remote control for the curtains and allowed them to slip closed as she settled in to sleep. Catra shifted beside her at the sound, holding Finn closer and reaching out another hand across the bed. 

Adora thought for just a second that Catra was reaching for her, but Catra was asleep and returned to her deep purr as she settled again. Adora tried to calm her swiftly beating heart and banish the thought of what it would be like to fall asleep holding Catra’s hand.     

[…]

Adora groaned as something wet touched her face and she flinched away. She pushed the big head away as Swifty whined and begged for breakfast. Adora tried to wipe her face without disturbing Finn who was still sleeping cradled in her arms. 

Adora tried to roll onto her back to avoid another attack when she realised something was pressed against her and preventing her from rolling over. Adora looked over her shoulder to see dark ears and a mass of curls before the previous night rushed back to her mind. 

Catra was snuggled up against Adora’s back with her hands tucked against her chest as she purred in her sleep. 

As much as Adora didn’t want to get out of this bed, she knew she had to. Catra had avoided their last morning together and it felt only right to allow this one to pass without awkward embarrassment as well. Adora didn’t want Catra to be ashamed of her need for help in the storm, which meant the best way forward was to treat it as if nothing had happened.   

It took some manoeuvring for Adora to get up without disturbing either of her bed mates but she thankfully managed. Once Adora was free, she moved Finn closer to Catra who cuddled into Finn as she continued to sleep.

It was adorable to witness but Adora couldn’t stay any longer. She could see by the time that she had overslept so she needed to get moving or she would be late for her first meeting. She went into her closet to change. 

[...]

Saturday was a sleep in day, and Catra’s birthday, which meant she shouldn't expect to sleep in at all. Catra awoke to the sound of knocking on the front door of the penthouse and grumbled as she attempted to hide in the covers. It was unusual for there to be guests on the weekend and that set Catra’s mind buzzing with who might now be in the house. Catra laid with her ears perked to listen to the movement in the other part of the house. Ms Grey was already awake and making breakfast for Finn from what Catra could tell but no one else was making noise. 

Finn’s had become obsessed with the song that Ms Grey had sung during the storm and their little voice was singing it on repeat even now. Catra enjoyed Adora’s singing - she wasn’t a professional by any means - but she was as devoted to holding key as she was to anything she did. 

It was nice. 

It was unfair how Adora, in bed with her hair down, cheeks pink and singing to Catra had been on her mind a lot since then. 

Catra was definitely awake and flustered now so it was just as good to go join the Grey’s for breakfast.

Catra’s pyjama’s were a pair of long pants and a t-shirt to stay warm after the rain practically froze the city. Catra crept out of her room to investigate the delicious smell coming from the kitchen. If she had to guess, it smelt like apple pancakes.  

Ms Grey was wearing a grey pair of jeans with a soft coral coloured t-shirt that brought warmth to her cheeks and made her eyes look even more blue. She was wearing an apron over the top that was simple and black but it made Catra feel warm at how cute she looked. A vase full of flowers sat on the kitchen island with bright colours standing out against the usual backdrop of the kitchen. 

“Oo, secret admirer?” Catra asked playfully. She was sure Adora had plenty of women vying for her attention but Adora just smiled as she turned to look at Catra over her shoulder. 

“You tell me, they’re for you,” Adora explained and Catra felt colour come to her cheeks. Not many people knew where she lived, so she was pretty sure she knew who they were from. Catra checked the note and smiled as she saw the birthday wishes from Scorpia and Perfuma written in Perfuma’s perfectly loopy handwriting. For one panicked moment Catra thought her mother might have sent them, but that made no sense because she had no idea where Ms Grey or Catra really lived.

“They’re from Scorpia and Perfuma,” Catra felt the need to explain and Adora nodded. 

“Whats the occasions?” Adora asked curiously and Catra felt her cheeks warm further.

“My Birthday,” Catra said softly and a gentle smile came to Adora’s face as she turned to face Catra fully, ignoring the pan full of pancakes. 

“You didn’t tell me it was your birthday, I would have gotten you something,” Ms Grey said and the pinch of her brow told Catra that she was serious, and maybe a little disappointed that she missed the opportunity. 

“Oh, that’s not necessary. I don’t do much for my birthday,” Catra said smelling the flowers as an excuse to hide her face from Ms Grey’s curious gaze. 

“Why is that?” Ms Grey asked, 

“Well, we never really had birthday parties. We would always have dinner and invite the neighbours over and share food. So that tradition just continued into my adulthood,“ Catra said with a shrug. 

“That sounds like a party to me,” Adora said, her eyes gentle. 

“Yeah, but I didn’t have a kids party,” Catra said and Adora nodded. 

“Well, happy birthday. I hope you enjoy your day with your mum,” Adora said and Finn’s little ears perked up as they heard what their mother said. They ran over from where they had been playing in the living room and looked up at Catra.

“Birthday?!” Finn asked and Catra smiled at them. 

“Yeah, I’m turning twenty-six this year,”

“Wow, you’re so old,” Finn said with a cheeky smile and Catra blew a raspberry at them. “Not as old as Mama though, shes almost thirty!” Finn said and Adora scoffed. 

“Excuse me, I’m not ever twenty-nine yet,” Adora said, looking scandalised as Catra giggled. 

“Well as long as I’m not THAT old,” Catra said and crouched to Finn’s height while Ms. Grey returned to the pancakes. “Thank you Finny,” Catra said and Finn rubbed their cheek against Catra’s affectionately.  

Catra hadn’t wanted to announce her birthday to Ms Grey and Finn, but she should have expected Scorpia to send her something since she does it every year. It wasn’t that Catra didn’t want anyone to know but she just didn’t want them to make a big deal out of it. It wasn’t a milestone birthday and she didn’t expect gifts so there was no need to fuss.   

Catra went to her mother's house for the day and her mother surprised her with a spa day for a cute little hybrid spar that was having a buy one get one free offer for their grand opening. C’yra loved a sale, she wasn’t struggling with money by any means and she was comfortable, but she didn’t believe in paying full price for something you could only use once. 

They waited in line for about half an hour for their turn but even that was entertaining as her mother talked to anyone in line about anything and everything. 

Catra spent the day with her mum, purring and being pampered until they returned to C’yra’s apartment. They invited the neighbours over and everyone brought a dish to share, including one neighbour bringing a cake to celebrate. 

C’yra and Catra lived in this building for most of Catra’s life and their neighbours were more like family. C’yra didn’t have any family left - being an only child and losing her parents years ago - so their neighbours became Catra’s aunts, uncles and grandparents. Catra knew it wasn’t the most normal family in the world, but she never felt like she was missing out. Especially when her ‘cousins’ were her best friends and she had the freedom of exploring her independence under the safety of many protective eyes. 

It wasn’t always fun and games, like when Catra tried to sneak out to spend time with her first girlfriend and got caught by Granny Stella within minutes. So embarrassing. 

The night was filled with good food, music and people. Everyone talked and drank, getting rowdy enough to embarrass Catra by singing happy birthday before C’yra presented Catra with her gift. A brand new laptop for her ‘masters’. Catra had avoided talking too much about her masters all night and was confronted with a confusing mix of guilty and grateful. So, she cried. Catra’s mother and several others hugged her as they assured her that she deserved the gift and much more.    

“Have I told you lately how much I appreciate you and everything you do for me?” Catra asked her C’yra which prompted her to get teary. “I promise I’m going to repay you for all the money you’ve spent on me,” Catra said seriously and her mother just laughed.

“You don’t have to repay me, I want you to live a good life, that’s all,” C’yra said, wiping Catra’s tears away. Her mum's words were sweet but Catra desperately wanted to repay all the stress and energy that she put into raising Catra against the odds. She wanted her mother to be comfortable and happy just like she had made Catra.  
 
Catra returned to the Grey house late that night and it was quiet except for Swifty’s snores. Catra quietly crept into the house. There was a single light on in the kitchen and Catra walked over to turn it off before she went to bed. When she reached the light switch she realised a beautifully wrapped gift box was left on the counter under the light. She approached the box and saw her name on the label. 

Catra blushed a little as she took the box in her hand and ran her nail over the tape to carefully open the the gift. Once it was open she stared at it with confusion. They were sound cancelling earbuds designed for a magicat. Catra knew from her own research that these were expensive.  

Catra was torn because she always wanted a pair for studying and surviving thunderstorms, but this gift was definitely too much. Catra opened the card sitting under the gift and read the message as her mind raced. How was she going to convince Ms Grey to return these and get her money back without seeming ungrateful?  

Miss Catra,
Before you attempt to give these back, please note I bought some for Finn too and they are very excited to match with you. 

For all the times the world gets too loud, I hope these help you feel more at ease. 

Happy birthday,

Finn and Adora Grey  

*Drawing of Catra riding a lion* 

Catra laughed, she couldn’t give them back knowing that it would disappoint Finn. Ms Grey had identified her weakness to get the outcome that she wanted. Usually Catra didn’t like those tactics. She hated feeling controlled and often resented anyone who tried but felt kind of nice to be understood so easily. Ms Grey knew Catra would resist the gift because of the price. Adora might not have known that Catra would feel guilty, but she knew enough to try to sooth her. 

Catra held the gift to her chest gently like it would stop the butterflies congregating there. She took the present into her room and placed them under the flowers that Scorpia and Perfuma sent her. She pulled out the laptop her mother gave her to pose the gifts together before grabbing her camera to snap a photo. 

Catra felt spoiled to be surrounded by so many good people who cared about her. She might not be close to many people, but she felt wealthy for having them in her life. 

This was a good birthday. 

Chapter Text

Catra loved Halloween. As a kid she would spend months making her costume from anything she could find. When she could afford to buy one with her pocket money when she was older it was even better and she would collect her candy to savour it all year long. Her mum took her trick or treating when she could, but it was much more exciting when Catra was old enough to go around the neighbourhood with her peers. Catra would trade her chocolates with her friends and people at school for treats she could eat and stash them to share with her mum on hard days. She loved Halloween for the way it brought a light to her childhood, but she had never experience Halloween quite like this.

Catra expected the Grey-Skull-Moon’s to go all out with their costumes. They had the money for intricate costumes and lavished events, but these outfits were not costumes. Catra was wearing a full historically accurate recreation of a regency dress and it was far too expensive for Catra to wear outside and possibly get mud on. She was sure that the dress alone was worth more than her yearly income, even as well paid as she was with the Grey’s.

Tuesday was Catra’s night off so she was surprised when Glimmer invited her personally to join the Grey’s at Glimmer’s Halloween block party. Catra didn’t have other plans for Halloween since Scorpia and Perfuma were already going to this event so she decided to join them for the festivities. She was sure that the party was going to be exuberant enough to gather a large crowd and plenty to do. It was Catra’s day off but spending the evening with the Greys was far from the worst thing in the world.

Glimmer didn’t live on a fancy street uptown, but somewhere in the suburbs where cherry blossoms trees grew down the street. The whole block had rented rides and attractions to set up at the park at the centre of the street. If Catra’s younger self had known about this party, she would have milked it for all the candy and rides it was worth.

Catra knew the family was following a theme, but she wasn’t sure what that theme was but her dress was what she got for listening to an almost-five-year-old when they gave her costume demands. 

Catra didn’t like big poofy dresses much because of how they obstructed the free movement of her tail. This costume was made for a magicat though and not only any magicat, but this magicat. Which meant she had a tail hole in her gown and a perfectly fitted crown on her head.

The outfit had complex layers of fabric to navigate so it was a relief when Dee helped with her dressing. Dee did her makeup and the combination of eye shadow and blush not only made her eyes look more intense but made her freckles stand out against her tanned skin.

Catra’s dress was magenta with a gold neckline and belt which hung low on her hips and sat against the front of her full skirt. The shape of her dress really made her look taller and more slender with a small waist. It was the style but it felt strange to see it in action. Catra moved around, testing out her flexibility in the dress and was relieved to realised that she was comfortable as she relaxed into the supports. She could still move despite the corset fixing her posture.

Finn had decided to be the cutest little “scary” dragon this year. Finn was delighted that this year they got to do trick or treat “on their own”. Finn didn’t care that it was in their aunt Glimmer’s very safe neighbourhood, or that Catra and/or Ms Grey would be waiting on the sidewalk for them between each house. It was still a good mix between freedom and safety which made them excited to be more independent while they went house to house with their cousin.

Ms Grey was just a touch protective of Finn, but Angel was almost seven and perfectly safe to trick or treat around the neighbourhood on their own. Catra didn’t want to tell Ms Grey that she might be overdoing it, because at five years old, Catra was given too much responsibility and independence to be healthy.

Catra knew her childhood home life wasn’t an ideal environment. She knew her upbringing was hard, and it was that way because they didn’t have a choice. If child protection and support spent more time trying to help them when they were struggling and less time trying to take Catra away from her mum, then they would have been much better off. If Catra’s dad had stayed and not run out on her mum, Catra knew her life would have been very different. But they made due and everything turned out fine. Catra had therapy for the things she wrongly believed were her fault and for growing up too fast. 

Now Catra was studying to fight for other family’s to be able to support themselves and give their kids a good life. It all worked out.

Catra refocused on the task at hand and left her room to join Finn in the living room. Catra stepped out of the hallway into the main room and immediately stopped in her tracks.

Ms Grey was dressed as a prince.

Ms Grey’s hair was tied back with a gold ribbon a the base of her neck and soft curls attempted to escape their confines. A few wayward strands fell from their place to frame around her face. She wore a white and gold military jacket with gold shoulder pads and red pants. She had a black belt that cinched in her waist along with long black boots that her pants were tucked in to. She looked an incredible mix between strong and feminine. Her muscles pushed gently against her jacket and the belt on her waist gave her a hourglass shape. Catra would not survive this kind of treatment because stars, Adora was handsome.

Ms Grey looked up from Finn who had been telling her stories about dragons before Catra stole their attention away. Adora’s eyes widened slightly as she looked at Catra and Catra felt her cheeks colour. She hoped that look was a good one. Catra still didn’t like dresses, but she might consider wearing them more if Ms Grey looked at her like that.

“Miss Catra! You look so pretty! Just like a princess,” Finn said bouncing with excitement causing their wings to flap behind them.

“Thank you Finny,” Catra smiled.

Ms Grey looked away suddenly as she cleared her throat. Her cheeks were colouring quickly and Catra felt a bit of smug satisfaction at the sight of Ms Grey being so emotive.

“Ready to go Finny?” Adora asked, her voice sounding a little strained before she cleared her throat again. Catra grabbed the small clutch that she left on the couch and checked its content quickly before they were off.

[…]

Adora was annoyed at Glimmer’s insistence of inviting Catra to the Halloween block party but now she was absolutely livid. Glimmer had bullied Adora into giving her Catra’s number and Adora had held out hope that maybe Catra had a prior engagement for the night. It was her day off, so it made sense for her to be busy. The problem with that was that Glimmer also invited Perfuma - which was great - but it also meant Scorpia was coming and that meant Catra had said yes. Catra coming to the party wasn’t why Adora was angry however. Adora should have been suspicious when Dee let themselves out of the apartment after throwing a coy “good luck” over their shoulder.

Adora tries to focus on Finn’s story about dragons but her mind was conjuring up reasons for Dee’s comment. Finn’s attention was snatched away when Catra entered the room and Adora’s stomach was already filled with butterflies before she looked at her.

Stars, Catra made a beautiful princess.

She looked regal, soft and a little bit dangerous. Her crown was custom made, Adora knew that because she saw the invoice on her desk the day before and didn’t think much of it. It framed her face and gave her a mysterious aloofness that was really working for her. Adora was trying to keep her eyes in respectable places but Catra was wearing a necklace with a red jewel that was begging to draw her eyes lower. Adora looked away, feeling her cheeks flush painfully as she tried to right herself.

She understood now why Dee had wished her luck. Adora wasn’t sure how she was going to keep her eyes off Catra if she was going to look like that.

“Ready to go Finny?” Adora asked, horrified as her voice sounded so strained before she cleared her throat. Catra grabbed the small clutch that she left on the couch and checked its content quickly before they called a car to join the party.

Adora ordered a larger car so that everyone would be comfortable on the drive but the service was busy on Halloween and a regular sized car arrived instead.

“Sorry about the car Ms Grey, its been a busy night,” the driver explained as he opened the door for Adora to get inside.
 
Catra helped Finn remove their wings and carefully strapped them into their car seat while Adora waited. Finn was still safer in a car seat in case they were in an accident but that seat meant that they took up one side of the car. Adora was too big to sit in the middle so she hoped Catra would be fine squeezing in.

“I can sit in the back with Finn and you can take the front seat if you like?” Catra offered, clearly thinking the same thing.

“No, I-uh, I can’t,” Adora said, an unreasonable level of panic quickly filled her chest. She knew she was too quick to respond and she tried to avoid Catra’s curious gaze. Adora hadn’t been able to sit in the front passenger seat of a car since the accident that killed her mother. She was terrified and despite knowing her fears were unfounded she had never had a serious reason to face them.

“That’s okay, I can sit up front,” Catra offered kindly and Adora felt her stomach knot at the idea that Catra could be hurt in that cursed seat.

“No, it's fine, it's a short ride, we can make it work,” Adora justified, and Catra nodded her agreement. Catra slipped by Adora, bundling up her dress as best she could and sliding into the middle seat. Catra was petite so she fit just fine. Adora got in after her and tried to give her space. Adora’s attempts were ignored as Catra was distracted with Finn, poking them with her tail while Finn tried to catch it. They were distractingly close but Catra wasn’t making a big deal about it so Adora tried to ignore it too. Lucky for her, it was a short ride to Glimmers street.

They were dropped off at the end of the closed street. Adora held Finn’s hand while they walked down the sidewalk to look at the Halloween decorations outside each house. Adora was trying to pay attention to the hard work put into each display but Catra was too distracting. Every time Catra picked up her dress to avoid something on the ground she captured Adora’s eager attention.

“You don’t have to be so precious with the dress. Anything you get on it will wash out,” Adora mentioned and Catra huffed a little.

“I know, but the longer I can keep it clean the more I can show it off,” Catra said lifting her dress in a dramatic sweep and Adora smiled. Catra seemed to genuinely like her costume and she wore it well. Adora hadn’t seen Catra in anything that showed off how small and toned she was until now and it was both impressive and frustrating to see.

Catra was too adorable.

Catra’s ears wiggled and she perked up a little to look down the street. Adora looked for what captured her attention and saw Perfuma and Scorpia waving excitedly from three houses down. Catra chuckled and waved back.

“You can walk ahead if you prefer,” Adora offered as Finn got too close to an moving dummy’s sensor and when it jumped at them they hissed and ran back to safety. Adora smiled and put her hand to Finn’s head as they hid behind her leg.

“That’s okay. We’ll catch up soon, I want to see the decorations first,” Catra said, stepping forward into the dummies sensor and when it jumped at her she made a big show of telling it off for scaring Finn. Finn watched curiously until they realised it was fake. They quickly stopped being afraid as they laughed at Catra’s dramatics and Adora couldn’t seem to take her eyes off her.

[…]

Finn got a big haul of candy for their amazing dragon costume, which was to be expected. They sat down with Catra and Angel to go through the candy and Catra helped Finn pick out the ones they couldn't have so they could trade with Angel for what they could eat.

When they caught up with Perfuma and Scorpia they gushed over the costumes and Catra showed off her pretty dress with pleasure.

When the other Grey twin arrived it became apparently why Adora was a prince. When Adam, with his cane, he was dressed in a white backless dress and crown. Finn thought this was amazing and told Adam that he was the prettiest princess. Catra was only slightly sulky about being upstaged so quickly but she couldn’t blame Finn. Adam was wearing the hell out of that dress.

Teela was wearing a bar wench outfit and had padded her stomach to look heavily pregnant and Finn was convinced that she had snacks hidden in her belly. It later became clear that she was hiding snacks when Teela kept picking popcorn out of her belly pouch whenever Finn wasn’t looking.

The family theme was apparently royals with their unconventional partners. Glimmer was dressed as a queen and Bow looked like a robin hood type. The whole family couldn’t make the party so it was a smaller group than Catra expected.

Angel and Finn went on all the rides that Finn was tall enough to go on and there was only one left. Angel was too scared for the haunted house but since Finn had seen that the scary things were pretend they had been getting braver over the course of the night.

Ms Grey didn’t seem at all concerned with the idea of a haunted house, it was probably because she was six foot and had muscles to defend herself with, but Catra was simply small and bitey. She didn’t mind mannequins or things that jumped at her but she was terrified of actual people acting like killers or murdered because what if they actually were?

Regardless, Catra wasn’t afraid of anything - except murderers and being harmed in any way - and she was going to go through this scary haunted house with her crush and a three foot tall kitten.

“You seem nervous,” Ms Grey commented casually as she attempted to untangle the chains that hung over the chest of her costume. Catra could see her struggling with her gloves on and rolled her eyes before she stepped forward to help.

“I’m not a chicken,” Catra said and Ms Grey smiled as her hands fell away to allow Catra to work. Catra untangled the chains easily enough but didn’t step away immediately. “I don’t like when its real people,” Catra whispered like a secret and glanced up at Adora. Ms Grey was closer than she expected and her eyes were warm as she gave her a reassuring smile.

“Its still pretend,” Adora offered and Catra crossed her arms defensively.

“Yeah, but what if its not?” Catra huffed.

“Then I’ll protect you,” Adora said simply and Catra looked up at her wide eyes. Catra was independent. She liked to pave her own way, to be free and self-reliant. Yes, she liked to prove her own strength to the world but she couldn’t deny how Adora’s word made her feel warm and safe. Catra knew she was capable of protecting herself, but it was nice to think that she didn’t have to.

“Fine,” Catra huffed dramatically, “If I die, its your fault,” Catra said, trying to hide the way her face felt warm.

“Deal, we’re next,” Adora said, calling Finn to join them in line from where they had been sitting with Glimmer, Bow and Angel after getting bored of waiting. Finn bounced up and roared at the person ushering them into the house and they clearly tried their hardest to look scared and not coo at the adorable display.

The house was surprisingly quiet, it was many twisted corridors and judging by the size of the outside it was going to take them a while to get through it. Finn seemed excited until the first time someone jumped out at them and they realised it was a real person. Catra yelped in surprise the same moment Finn screamed. Catra grabbed onto Adora’s arm after she picked Finn up into her arms. 

Finn was able to calm themselves again after seeing several mechanical scares and Adora put them back on their feet when they were ready but Catra was still clinging to her. Catra could hear people walking around them and was unsure if it was other haunted house goers or people waiting to jump out at them. The not knowing was killing her.

“You’re going to put holes in my jacket,” Adora said softly to Catra as Finn played with scary touchable stuff in the ‘lab’ area that was meant to feel like a brain. Catra quickly released Adora’s arm, she hadn’t noticed her claws pricking into her and she felt her face colour with embarrassment.

“Sorry,” Catra muttered and Adora just smiled at her. Her blue eyes were all kinds of strange colours as the light source changed in the haunted house. 

They were getting close to the end when Finn noticed a person ready to scare them and decided they were done.

“No thank you! I’m already scared enough, please don’t scare me,” Finn said confidently and incredibly politely. The person who looked like they were meant to be a murderer covered in fake blood with a chainsaw just looked at Finn with surprise and didn’t move.

“Thank you,” Finn said when they let them pass and go to the end of the house and run outside. Adora and Catra went to the door and right as they were leaving someone jumped out and scared Catra. She yelled and grabbed onto Adora to stop herself from punching the guy in the face and Adora just chuckled. Finn was waiting a few feet ahead smiling proudly at their achievement.

Once Catra’s heart rate returned to normal she praised Finn’s bravery and when Finn went to brag to Angel about it Adora stepped closer to her.

“You did well, too,” Ms Grey praised and Catra felt her cheeks warm.

“Easy for you to say, handsome princes are meant to be brave,” Catra said. Adora’s smile turned playful and Catra was transfixed by it. She had never seen that look on Adora’s face before.

“Would you like to know a secret?” Adora asked, leaning a little closer to whisper and Catra’s heart raced at her proximity.

“What?” Catra asked, her eyes glued to Adora’s sky blue eyes as they crinkled with her smile.

“I’m actually just a prince,” Adora said. Catra’s face burned as she realised what she said. She just told Adora that she thought she was handsome. To her face. Catra wished the floor would swallow her whole in that moment. Adora just gave Catra a little smirk before she walked away to join Bow and Glimmer. Catra was mortified at herself but tried to calm her heart. Adora was just teasing her, it didn’t mean anything. Catra just wanted Adora to flirt with her, she wasn’t actually flirting with her.

[…]

Adora was waiting in line for the fresh cinnamon doughnut stand when Glimmer turned to her with determination in her eyes. Adora wanted to groan, she should have known her sister would have another reason to indulge Adora’s sweet tooth.

“Adora, I need you to level with me,” Glimmer said firmly and Adora huffed.

“I have never lied to you,” Adora said and when Glimmer gave her a disbelieving look she adjusted her statement. “I rarely lie to you…about things that matter,” Adora corrected and Glimmer rolled her eyes.

“Good, keep that energy going,” Glimmer said and Adora sighed.

“What is it?” Adora asked and Glimmer seemed to be considering her words carefully.

“Are you dating Catra?” Glimmer asked and Adora gasped so hard that she choked on spit.

“Glimmer!” She scolded as she tried to recover. “Why would you ask me that?”

“What! Its a valid question,” Glimmer defended and Adora frowned. She was horrified that her sister could think so little of her to believe she would cross that line.

“No its not, she’s my employee,” Adora reminded her and Glimmer shrugged.

“Yeah, people date their employees all the time,” Glimmer said and Adora glared at her, people may, but Adora did not.

“Well I don’t. That’s a gross misuse of power, how could you think so lowly of me?” Adora asked, her voice coming out hurt and Glimmer rushed to explain herself.

“I don’t think lowly of you or whatever words you’re putting in my mouth. I’ve just seen the way you look at her,” Glimmer said, thankfully lowering her voice.

“I look at her completely normally, like I look at anyone,” Adora said, which she knew was fundamentally a lie. She wanted to look at Catra like she looked at everyone else but it was unlikely. She just hoped Catra hadn’t also noticed.

“Ha, no, I’ve seen those puppy eyes you give her, you had them the whole time with-”
 
“Don’t say it,” Adora cut into Glimmer’s statement, knowing exactly where she was going. Glimmer had the sense to pause but she elected to finish the sentence regardless.

“…Melody,” Glimmer said and Adora felt rage and pain boil up in her chest at the mention of her ex. She didn’t want to talk about this, especially not in public, surrounded by people and barely thirty meters from Catra herself.

“She is nothing like Melody,” Adora snapped and Glimmer flinched a little at her cold tone.

“I’m not saying she is, I’m just worried about you,” Glimmer said, her voice placating and soft.

“Well you don’t have to worry, because we aren’t dating,” Adora reiterated and Glimmer bit her lip before she charged ahead anyway. Glimmer could be as thoughtful as she wanted, but she rarely chose to keep her opinions to herself, no matter how misguided.

“If that’s true, you need to do something about this, or you’re going to get a workplace sexual harassment case against you,” Glimmer said and Adora’s face coloured, whether it was from embarrassment or rage she didn’t know but she glared at her sister. “Won’t the papers love that story,” Glimmer said rolling her eyes.

“What do you suggest then?” Adora asked through clenched teeth. Of all the places Glimmer could have brought this up, waiting in line for doughnuts was a poor choice.

“Dating,” Glimmer said like it was the most obvious thing.

“I don’t have time for a relationship,” Adora repeated her feelings which had not changed after five years as a single mother.

“I didn’t say a relationship, go on a date, or a few. Even if its just to burn off steam and get a little human contact so you don’t fall in the lap of the first attractive woman you see,” Glimmer said and Adora glared. She wasn’t falling in anyone’s lap. Catra and Adora were just friendly, they worked together and lived together, of course they would be friendly.

“That’s very disrespectful,” Adora said and Glimmer sighed like Adora was the one being unreasonable.

“Look, I’m just trying to look out for my big sister,” Glimmer said, changing tactics to her begging little sister act. Adora scoffed.

“I am barely two months older than you,” Adora reminded Glimmer and she rolled her eyes.

“One and a half, but with how high strung you are these days you could easily pass for forty,” Glimmer said and Adora huffed. They were finally at the front of the line and the man smiled at the two of them.

“You should listen to the little lady,” The man said, and Adora was mortified as she realised he had heard their conversation. “Never date your employees,” the man said before looking over his shoulder at the woman making doughnuts in the back. “Right hunny?” he asked with cheeky grin on his face.

“That’s right, worst thing I ever did. Thirty years later and I still can’t get rid of him,” the woman said with a wink and the man laughed good naturally. The sweet exchange did nothing to tamper Adora’s feeling of humiliation.

“Now what can I get you?” The man asked.

“A dozen doughnuts,” Adora said, completely straight faced. She was barely holding back her emotions but this man wasn’t the reason for her anger and did not deserve her bad attitude.

“Do you think that’s enough for everyone?” Glimmer asked curiously as she tapped her chin in thought.

“No, these are for me, what are you getting?” Adora asked and Glimmer rolled her eyes. Adora wanted to be done with this conversation as soon as possible and Glimmer acting like she had done nothing wrong was only making her angrier.

“Make that three dozen please,” Glimmer said offering her card but Adora beat her to it simply by being taller.

“Adora!” Glimmer grumbled and Adora ignored her. “At least let me pay after you listened to my opinion,”

“Maybe you should think about being more considerate next time you choose to berate me about my love life,” Adora snapped and Glimmer looked surprised.

“Adora…”

“Save it, I’m going to go check on Finn,” Adora said and stalked away.

[…]

Adora returned to the group in a worse mood that when she left. Catra could see how the others noticed the change but tried not to bring attention to it. Adora rejoined the table, sitting across from Scorpia and allowed Finn to crawl into her lap.

Finn had gotten tired of their costume after they started getting hungry, so they were wearing normal clothing now and their Uncle Bow’s jacket to keep them warm. Adora wrapped her arms around Finn and hid her face in their fluffy hair.

No one else was reacting to the strange behaviour but Catra hadn’t seen Ms Grey act like this before so she was worried. Catra looked to Scorpia and Perfuma for guidance, Scorpia looked equally confused and concerned but Perfuma just looked sympathetic. Catra hadn’t seen this before but maybe it was something that happened more often when she was around family. Around people she trusted.

Glimmer arrived to the group with doughnuts and everyone set to enjoying their treats. After several attempts from Finn to feed Adora doughnuts - resulting in sugar in one or both of their hair - Adora emerged from her hiding place. Adora was talking softly to Finn while she ate the doughnut they gave her, asking how they were enjoying the night and their favourite parts. Ms Grey wasn’t talking with the other adults anymore and solely focused on Finn.

Catra looked around the table again as she ate her treat and noticed the guilty look on Glimmers face as she glanced at Adora. Catra wondered what she might have said to make Adora so withdrawn.

“Can we go home? I’m tired,” Finn whispered to Adora as they snuggled into her arms. Adora pressed a kiss to their head.

“Of course, kitten, we can go as soon as you like,” Adora said gently and Catra felt her cheeks heat up slightly. She could have lived her whole life not knowing what Adora sounded like using that pet name.
It was strange that she used it for Finn though. It was used the same way a baby, or baby were used. One was an infant, a kitten, and one was a pet name for a partner, kitten. Maybe Adora didn’t know there was a difference? Catra really didn’t want to have that awkward conversation with her. Maybe it was a slip up and she said it by accident. Catra hoped it was a one time thing so she never had to tell Adora that it was more appreciate for her to call her girlfriend “kitten” than Finn.

Adora carried a sleeping Finn while Catra carried their costume back towards the end of the block to get their car home. Adora was still quiet and her brow was crinkled adorably like she was thinking hard about something.

“Did you have a good night?” Catra asked to try to get Adora talking. Adora nodded without looking at her before she adjusted Finn. Adora hadn’t really looked at Catra since her mood change and Catra was starting to wonder if she had been the cause of it. As if to dispel Catra’s fears Adora looked over at her.

“I’m sorry if I made you uncomfortable with my comment earlier,” Adora said with a determined frown that crinkled her eyebrows just slightly. Catra looked at her with confusion for a moment before she smiled. Adora was still thinking about that? That was kind of sweet.

“You didn’t make me uncomfortable,” Catra said, uncomfortable was possibly the furthest thing from what she felt in that moment.

“I’m glad but please tell me if I ever do. I don’t want to overstep,” Adora said. She looked so concerned and Catra couldn’t help but smile.

“If that happens, you will be the first to know, believe me,” Catra said and Adora smiled. “Besides, you were just responding to my comment, so I’m sorry if I made you uncomfortable,” Catra offered, Adora didn’t seem uncomfortable, but that might have changed after the moment was over.

“I’m not used to compliments, but it did not make me uncomfortable,” Adora assured and Catra bit her lip to stop herself from saying more. She found it hard to believe that Adora didn’t get many compliments, unless people were simply intimidated by her. That was possible.

Adora stopped at the end of the block when their car pulled up and turned to Catra.

“For the record, you look lovely in your costume too,” Adora said with earnest eyes and Catra couldn’t help the playful smirk that came to her lips.

“I know,” Catra said playfully, and Adora was unable to stop her short bark of laughter that erupted from her chest. Catra felt her fur fluff up as her body covered with goose bumps.

“You surprise me,” Adora said with a smile.

“I’m going to take that as a compliment,” Catra said, taking some pride in surprising a woman like Ms Grey. It felt like an achievement.

“It is,” Adora said, her eyes soft for a moment in what was quickly becoming Catra’s favourite expression on her. It was only a moment though, a small frown came to Ms Grey’s face as the look disappeared and she glanced away. She was silent as she went to the car to get Finn settled into their seat.

Catra was even more convinced that whatever had upset Adora was her doing as she wondered what happened.

[…]

Monday was exhausting. Adora had meetings all day and she was sporting a terrible headache. Her shareholders were insisting on changing the the quarterly meeting from January to the start of December in order to discuss these idiotic military applications research. Adora hadn’t been concerned about them previously, but the idea had been gaining traction and Adora needed to act before they got out of hand.

Adora needed to meet with Angella and Adam to ensure the board hadn’t gotten in their ear about this. Angella was retired, but she had a seat on the board because of her marriage to their father. When their dad passed, Adora and Adam were given equal parts of the company to ensure they maintained majority over the shareholders. Adam had allowed Adora to control his assets to ensure his role remained stress free, but Adora needed to bring this to his attention before she started swinging her weight around. She needed them to back down but if they refused to listen, she would make the call regardless.

Adora let herself into the house and put her coat into the closet before she walked down the hall into the living room to possibly the cutest thing she had ever seen.

Finn and Catra were wearing their new headphones and dancing around in complete silence. Finn was attempting to sing to the music they could hear in their headphones but it didn’t help Adora understand what song they were listening to. Finn was mostly jumping around and bopping their head with their hands in the air but Catra was dancing like a complete dork. Catra was clearly dancing to entertain Finn as they giggled in delight at her dramatic dance moves.

Swifty had no idea what was going on, but was running around excitedly trying to join the fun. When Swifty spotted Adora they ran to jump on her. Adora pushed him down, he didn’t usually jump but he was clearly excited, so she just clicked her tongue in displeasure and he sat to retrieve pets.

“Mama! We are having a disco!” Finn yelled loudly which attracted Catra’s attention and she had the good sense to take one earbud out before talking.

“Welcome home, would you care to join our silent disco? I can share an earbud,” Catra offered, holding out the red earpiece.

“Thank you, but I don’t dance,” Adora said and Finn pouted as they took their earbuds out.

“Please! It’s really fun,” Finn said and Adora was helpless to resist their kitten eyes.

“Show us your moves, I’ve seen you dance with Finn before,” Catra said, shaking her shoulders ridiculously and Adora tried to hide her smile as she stepped closer.

“I don’t know how to dance with adults,” Adora clarified and Catra’s eyebrows went up quickly which caused Adora’s cheeks to warm. “I mean…I only know how to dance with someone who I can carry,”

“I don’t doubt you could carry me, but that’s fine. Dance with Finn, my moves are too smooth for you anyway,” Catra said playfully before she winked at Finn who giggled and bounced to be picked up. Adora was a little lost at the playful look in Catra’s face as she continued to boogy as she held the earbud out to Adora.

Adora felt like she was in a trance as she took the earbud holding Catra’s playful eyes. She put the earbud in her ear and heard a rock song she didn’t recognise before she hefted Finn into her arms. She danced how she usually would with Finn, stepping to the beat in a circle, a semi-waltz that she failed to practice but Finn enjoyed. Finn giggled in delight as they continued to sing to their song which was nothing like the song Catra was listening to.

Catra started bouncing around with Swifty, singing her song in a silly baby talk voice that only made Swifty much more excited. He tried to jump up on Catra but she dodged him in silky movements like they were dancing and Adora tried not to laugh.

After some time dancing in the living room Adora completely forgot she had a headache at all.

Chapter Text

Adora’s days were always long, rising with the sun and carrying Finn around until she left for work and starting her day long before the 9-5 grind. The company needed it, she could pay other people to take care of these things, but it was important to her fathers life work and her own sanity that she kept things under her control.

This day started like any other, meetings, talking with investors, arranging outfits and travel for important events, all very normal. The unusual meeting was one that was dropped on her last minute by the company board members and Adora detested poor planning. The meeting was long, but its goal was clear. The board wanted to invite the major investors to the quarterly meeting to try to convince Adora to accept researching the military applications proposal for her prosthetics. They wanted to mass produce She-ra and if they requested a vote of the major investors they would likely follow the money and vote with the growing support from the board.

Adora hadn’t been in a great mood, and that had evolved into a bad day, but now she was angry. The meeting concluded with the decision to move the meeting to the end of the week and span over the weekend to include as many board members and investors as possible. Last minute planning irked Adora’s strict schedule, and she hated feeling out of control of her own company. She had caved, to keep the peace, but she was soon seeing red. She hung up the call before she had a chance to vent her frustrations and got to her feet immediately.

Adora liked to think she was a calm and rational person, she could use her intercom to ask Mermista to come into the room to discuss the change of plans but anger was bubbling under her her skin and she wasn’t well versed in dealing with such an uncontrollable emotion. The only way she had found was moving her body to expel the energy. Adora walked to her door and yanked it open with far too much force for a calm and rational person.

Mermista was at her desk - as expected - and her eyes snapped to Adora at the sudden sound. Mermista was a picture of calm, perched on her chair, legs crossed and filing her nails into sharp points. Her eyes skimmed over Adora in a quick assessment before she pushed her finger to her earbud.

“I’m going to, like, call you back,” Mermista said, putting down the nail file as she got to her feet. Adora didn’t say a word as she turned and walked back into her office. Mermista followed her and closed the door behind her with a click. “Bad meeting?” Mermista asked, her voice tentative in a way she never usually showed.

Adora wanted to scream but she held it back as she went to her window and looked down at the city below. She took some calming breaths to try to quell the rising tension in her chest. “I’m going to ring Primus’ stupid neck,” Adora said lowly and Mermista huffed a laugh.

“Okay but seriously, I would pay to see that. Maybe you can do it at the Gala, provide some free entertainment” Mermista said, her voice lilting playfully as she approached Adora’s desk to lean against it casually.

Adora’s mind was racing, the Gala would be the first time she would see Primus after this meeting and no matter how it went, it promised to be an awkward interaction. Adora continued with her slow and steady breaths until her heart had stopped racing and her analytical mind could reengage. This was not a good enough reason to be emotional, she needed to act logically to ensure this vote went in her favour. It took several minutes to get her thoughts straight but Mermista waited patiently.

“They want to move the investment meeting up,” Adora said and Mermista quietly hummed as she waited for her to continue. “The board requested the investors vote,” Adora continued and Mermista’s nails started clicking on her phone before Adora voiced her request “I need you to move my flight to Friday and change the hotel reservations,” Adora said, turning to Mermista. She was back in control.

“Are you still going to take Finn?” Mermista asked, glancing up from her phone. Adora had planned to take Finn because the one day meeting was a good excuse to show Finn snow and skiing since they were big enough to learn. Now that the meeting was going to be bigger it would likely take days and it was easy to park Finn in a boring meeting for a few hours, but not a few days.

“Yes, with the investors joining us the meeting will take a few days,” Adora said with a frown. She had hoped to not need to invite Catra on this trip, not only would it make her family talk but it now spanned over her weekend and Catra could have plans.

“There are three first class seats on the red eye, Friday,” Mermista said and Adora sighed.

“I’d prefer Thursday night if possible, and I need to speak to Catra before I book her a flight. It’s her time off,” Adora said and Mermista nodded.

“Thursday night only has two first class seats available, but I’ll call Catra and ask,” Mermista said and Adora wanted to object. She was still unsure what Mermista and Catra’s relationship was but she had no reason to stop them speaking regardless of their relationship.

“Thank you, and please push back my next meeting,” Adora said, moving her shoulders to try to dispel the tension that gripped her. She needed to move, to vent, to expel this energy.

“Gym?” Mermista asked, and Adora nodded. She went to the closet in the corner of her office and grabbed her gym bag before she shrugged it onto her shoulder. The ground floor had a gym facility that was well stocked so Adora didn’t need to leave the building to keep up her exercise routine, plus her employees enjoyed it.

“Don’t you have dance class tonight?” Mermista asked as she pushed off the desk to stand and follow Adora to the door.

“I can do both,” Adora said dismissively, as she opened the door for Mermista to go first. Mermista watched her silently but didn’t comment before she returned to her desk.

“I’ll send you the new flights and hotel details once I’ve spoken to Catra,” Mermista said instead.

“Thank you,” Adora said, walking to the elevator and taking it down to the ground level. It was around lunch time so some people were in the gym working out already. Adora went to change, hanging up her suit carefully so it didn’t wrinkle before she changed into her workout gear.

Adora returned to the main room, starting on the treadmill to warm up when her phone rang, stopping her music. Adora had expected the board to contact investors and to hear from a few of her family members. Specifically she was sure that Angella would call and Adam would check in.

There was no way Adam would be able to travel to the snow for the meeting, so he would likely defer his vote to Adora as usual. The cold did not agree with his condition and it exacerbated his joint pain. Adora would never ask him to go through that for the company. She knew Adam agreed with her about the military research and their votes still had control.

Angella’s name flashed across her phone and Adora paused the treadmill. She took a few stabilising breaths before she answered the phone. Angella was usually happy to travel for meetings, even if she found them dreadfully boring but she liked to visit new locations and was particularly fond of skiing.

“Hey Angie, ready for the cold weather?” Adora tried to joke, but her voice sounded tight and too uncomfortable to be casual. She cleared her throat like it would dislodge the anxiety that was still pressing on her chest.

“I’m sorry darling, you know I usually would, but I’ve got something else booked this weekend and with the late notice I can’t change it,” Angella explained with an apologetic tone.

“You’re really not coming?” Adora asked, trying not to voice her disappointment. She wasn’t a child - needing her parental figure there to hold her hand - but she had hoped to see some friendly faces in the crowd of money hungry investors.

“Sorry, I’ve deferred my vote to you. I know you’ll do what needs to be done,” Angella said and Adora’s stomach twisted as the heavy but familiar weight rested on her shoulders.

“You know its a bad look for me to use your vote,” Adora said. It was frowned upon to have Adora used investors votes, but Adams was a different story.

“I know. I’ll have to send a representative. I’ll have to find someone, don’t worry,” Angella fluttered through her reassurance and Adora nodded.

“I was hoping we could go skiing together,” Adora said, her voice sounding more convincingly light hearted.

“You’ve got this covered, you don’t need me there,” Angella said with confidence and although it was meant to reassure Adora that she was more than capable, it made the mounting pressure feel almost suffocating.

“You’re right, I can handle it,” Adora said, despite her trepidation's, failure wasn’t an option, she would handle it. She had no other choice.

“Excellent, I’m too old for all this travel anyway,” Angella said playfully and Adora rolled her eyes even though Angella couldn’t see them.

“Do we have to cancel the Christmas trip too?” Adora asked matching her tone and Angella laughed.

“Goodness no, I am more than happy to travel somewhere sunny and warm,” Angella said, sounding wistful for their trip.

“The destination makes all the difference. I’ll have to let you go, I’m at the gym,” Adora said, her tight chest demanding that she wasn’t stationary any longer.

“You work too hard dear,” Angella chastised gently and Adora nodded.

“I know, I’ll talk to you later,” Adora said and they hung up the phone after a few goodbyes. Adora leaned on the supports of the treadmill and sighed. She would be going it alone after all. She could handle this.

#

Adora couldn’t seem to get the song Catra was dancing to on Monday out of her head. Every moment of silence she hummed it under her breath, or tapped it into surfaces with her fingers. She was singing it now, under her breath as she walked from the Greyskull building to the dance studio. She remembered teaching beginners dance classes at this studio when she was barely twenty. She was sure it was owned by a different company now, the name had changed from French to English in an attempt to get new clients.

Adora liked this studio for its closeness to her work, which meant she didn’t have to get a driver to take her. Finn had enjoyed the classes when they were three, but she was sure they had been too young for the attention span needed for a long class. Finn wanting to dance again filled Adora with pride to share something so important to her with her child.

Adora was excited to have Catra joining the class, not only to help keep Finn enthusiastic about this new skill but also to share it with Catra. She wondered if Catra would be a natural, she had moved effortlessly to the music on Monday. Her slender, toned frame was completely under her control, even if she was doing a silly dance. Adora was interested to see if she was able to use that control to master ballet.

Adora arrived at the studio and went to the changing room for her third outfit change of the day. Slipping into her old leotard was like wearing a second skin. It was tight and restrictive but the pressure on her body was familiar and comforting. Maybe dancing was just what she needed after such a long stressful day.

Adora put her suit in the bag, far less concerned about keeping it unwrinkled now that this was her final stop for the day. She slipped her coat back over the top of her uniform and walked to the practice room.

The room was large with mirrors all around the outside and support polls both against the wall and freestanding in the centre of the room. There were a lot of other mothers there, people she was sure she had taught once upon a time. But she didn’t feel the need to smile until she saw Finn and Catra.

Catra was talking to the teacher of the class, Adora recognised her from the website she had used to confirm their booking. As soon as Finn saw Adora they started to bounce on their feet and Adora smiled as she crossed the room. She could hear whispers around her but she knew from experience that she didn’t want to listen to whatever they were saying.

#

Catra was nervous about their first dance class. She knew she was going to be terrible, but she didn’t want to embarrass herself in front of all these rich people. She knew Ms Grey’s family were unusually kind for being so wealthy but she didn’t want to deal with the backlash of real rich snobbery that she had already experienced in her life.

Catra tried not to look at the other mothers with their kids, she was far from the only non-human here, but they were the only Magicats and it was hard to ignore the looks of delight some kids got when they saw her kind. Catra smiled at their excitement but hoped they knew better than to ask to pet their tails or ears.

Catra noted that Finn and herself were dressed differently from the other groups, her own baggy jumper hiding her workout clothes from the cool evening air outside. Finn wore a big, baggy shirt and with tights underneath for maximum movement. But Finn was fussing with their clothing and Catra crouched to help them arrange the layers more comfortably against their fur. They stood patiently as she worked and once she was done they looked happier.

“You must be Ms Grey,” the instructor said coming over and Catra stood to face the woman.

“Catra D’riluith,” Catra corrected. It was an easy mistake to make, but it made Catra cut a glass smile.

“Oh, I apologise, your friend must have made the booking,” The woman said, looking down at her tablet to click something.

“It’s fine,” Catra smiled and noted how Finn gripped her sleeve to hide close behind her leg. It was rare that Finn felt shy around new people but Catra was pretty certain that her own reaction to the woman was colouring the kittens response. Catra decided to be friendlier at least to put Finn at ease.

“Do you have any dance experience?” The woman asked curiously as she looked back at Catra, offering a small smile to the shy blond.

“No I don’t,” Catra said, feeling only slightly inadequate as the woman looked over her clothing. Putting on a happy demeanour was going to be harder than she thought. Catra and Finn were the only ones not in leotards and tights, with some pairs already doing warm up stretches. Catra had no idea what they were doing.

“That’s fine, this is the beginners class,” the woman stated obviously and group of women nearby started whispering with excitement.

“Is that Adora Grey? Whats she doing here?” One woman asked and Catra looked to the door to see Adora looking around. “Do you think she is helping teach the class?” The other woman asked in barely a whisper.

Adora spotted Finn as they started bouncing in spot at the sight of their mum. Adora came over to join them with a small smile. She took her gym bag off her shoulder and picked up Finn to give them a big hug. Catra smiled at Adora and looked back at the instructor who looked completely starstruck.

“Adora Grey,” The woman whispered like a prayer and Adora noticed the instructor for the first time.

“Hello, sorry. I’m a little late,” Adora said politely, she wasn’t actually late but was right on time.

“Its fine, we haven’t started yet,” the instructor said, looking Adora up and down for a moment before she tipped her head. “Why… why are you…” The woman attempted twice and Adora offered a polite smile.

“In a beginners class?” Adora finished the question for her and the woman looked relieved that Adora didn’t seem insulted by her question.

“Yes, if you don’t mind me asking,” The woman said and Adora shrugged one shoulder as she held Finn against her chest.

“Well Finn and Catra are beginners, so…” Adora said as she put her hand on Finn’s back to motion to them and nodded towards Catra.

“Right, of course,” she said, following the motion to look back at Catra and remembering her existence with a shock.

“We should get started,” the woman said suddenly realising the time and going to the front of the class. Adora put Finn down and took off her jacket. She was wearing a long sleeved black leotard and white stockings. Catra was a little distracted from taking off her own outer layers by looking at Adora’s skin tight clothing.

Stars, she looked amazing. Does she know how good she looks?

“Right, everyone ready? We have a special guest today, Ms Adora Grey and her family,” the woman said and a light colour came to Adora’s face at the introduction and applause. She still crossed her feet and dipped into a bow like a perfect ballerina, despite her embarrassment.

Catra stopped her staring to shuck her own outer layers quickly. Catra’s outfit was very different to the other women. She was wearing black exercise pants and a red crop top. Catra put her clothes with Adora’s and turned back to face the front of the class. She caught Adora’s eye as she was looking at Catra’s clothing and her tail lashed when she couldn’t read her expression. Ms Grey smiled softly before Catra smiled back and the class began.

The whole class went through warm ups, then the positions and names. Finn seemed to remember most of them reasonably easily but they were much more interested in talking to their mother at every opportunity. Adora showed the same level of eager interest in return, talking to Finn while helping to adjust their poses when needed.

Adora was obviously a professional and everyone could see that. Adora moved with perfect practised control of her body and it was breathtaking to witness up close. Catra was sure she spent far too long staring at Adora as she moved. Just like every other woman in that room.

Class was exhausting. Catra’s feet were sore from using muscles she wasn’t used to and her whole body felt like it had a workout. Catra couldn’t imagine how sore she would be if she had to use pointer shoes. Lucky for her, young kids weren’t allowed to use them so their guardians didn’t either. Finn seemed to adapt quickly to the new skill and only needed a little help.

Catra had done some research about what to expect from this class but she didn’t expect when Ms Grey turned from Finn to look at her. The way her blue-grey eyes skimmed over her form should not have excited her the way it did but she was only mortal. Catra wobbled just a little as her knees tried to give out under her heavy gaze and Adora looked back at Catra’s face.

“May I?” Adora asked and Catra wasn’t sure what she was asking for but the answer was the same.

“You may…” Adora gave a small smile before her hand came to her arm and gently adjusted her position. Catra thought that was all she would do but she gently put her hands to Catra’s hips and pushed them back slightly. It was like magic as her tired muscles were relieved by the stronger muscles of her thighs and her shaking stopped. Adora looked at her form before she nodded.

“Perfect,” Adora said and Catra tried to fight a blush as Adora turned her attention back to Finn.

Catra wouldn’t call herself strong, but she was flexible, and it was something she was proud of as a magicat. So when she was given an opportunity to show her flexibility in front of everyone she took it readily.

At the end of the class the teacher challenged everyone to try to lift their leg as high as it went to touch a plate. Ms Grey did it easily, showing off her years of training and easy flexibility.

The other women had varying levels of success but no other manage to complete the challenge. Catra was the only other woman that could lift her leg high enough to match Ms Grey and the instructor. Ms Grey looked impressed that Catra did it with so little effort and Catra was a little ashamed to admit to herself that her mind had quickly devolved into wonder how flexible Adora really was.

Finn was a ball of energy after the class, full of beans until the moment Ms Grey picked them up to carry them outside so they didn’t have to put their shoes back on. Finn went out like a light and Catra helped to carry Adora’s bag while they waited for the car to come and pick them up.

“Did Mermista call you?” Adora asked and Catra turned to look at her in the light of the streetlamp. The night was chilly and none of them bothered to change from their dance clothing, but Adora had used her jacket for Finn instead of keeping herself warm. Catra wished her jacket was big enough to fit Ms Grey’s beautiful shoulders but she was sure her offer would be rejected regardless of the fit.

“She did, we’re going to the Snow, hey?” Catra asked, Mermista had told Catra about the meeting and explained that she could return to the penthouse for the final 4 days of solitude or remain at the snow to enjoy the destination without the need to work. Catra had obviously elected to stay and experience the snow for as long as possible before returning home.

“Yes, we are leaving very early on Friday, and I know you had Finn this afternoon but I can give you tomorrow afternoon off and you can bring Finn into work so you have time to pack, and get things organised for the time away,” Adora offered and Catra shrugged, holding Adora’s the gym bag closer to her chest like it was an oversized plushy.

“I don’t need much time to pack, what should I bring?” Catra asked, she had never been to the snow before, surely it wasn’t as cold as everyone claimed, most species didn’t have fur quite like hers.

“I requested Dee get some clothes for you, so you should have them before we leave, a warm jacket is very important and snow boots,” Adora said and Catra nodded her head “We will be staying in a cabin, because Finn doesn’t like the loud noises of hotels, so we should have some peace and quiet,”

“That sounds nice, I told Mermista that I’d like to stay to enjoy the sights after my services are no longer needed, is that okay?”

“Of course, have you ever been to the snow?” Adora asked curiously as she swayed back and forth as she held Finn.

“Never,” Catra confirmed and Adora nodded.

“Well, you and Finn will be in the same boat, so I’d be happy to show you the sights,” Adora offered easily and Catra grinned.

“Thank you, that sounds good,” Catra agreed and Adora looked into Catra’s eyes.

“Good,” Adora said and smiled before she glanced away quickly. She looked down the road and the headlights of their car lit the street. Once they were warm and situated into the back seat Catra noticed Ms Grey’s leg softly trembling against the outside of her thigh. Catra wanted to do something to warm her up but knew she had nothing to offer. In the end, Adora stopped trembling on her own as the warmth of the car seeped into her bones.

#

Catra didn’t bother to change immediately when they got home. Adora took Finn to bed before retiring to her room for the night. Catra pottered around the house making tea and petting Swifty before she returned to her room with an idea in mind to entertain herself.

She grabbed her new laptop and putting her tea on the beside table to lay on her stomach and type on her laptop’s search engine.

Adora Grey, ballerina.

Catra wasn’t left wanting with articles about Ms Grey and her mysterious disappearance from the stage. She was in the height of her career but rejected a world tour to be the White Swan Queen Odette in Swan Lake along side a (apparently very famous) ballerino. The production continued in her absence but many articles mentioned how the replacement ballerina was not up to the job.

Catra made sure her volume was muted on her laptop before she clicked into the first video of Adora dominating the stage. Adora was more slender than she was now, fitting the delicate shape expected of professional ballerina’s. She had her hair pinned back into a bun without a single strand out of place and her expression was one of concentration and determination as she flowed through her routine.

Catra was captivated as she watched her, in the safety of her room, she could look at Adora without feeling ashamed of her own wondering eyes. Adora was wearing a soft pink outfit with a full skirted tutu that moved as she sprang through her steps. Catra assumed she was following the pace of the music but she didn’t need to hear it to appreciate Adora’s devotion.

The video was short and another played in the queue straight after, another of Adora’s performances. Adora looked beautiful, made up like a perfect ballerina, feminine and strong in her tutu. She looked ethereal but Catra couldn’t drag her eyes away from Adora’s face. The pure enjoyment and tranquillity on her face was breathtaking. Catra didn’t need to be told how much Adora loved to dance, she could see it clear as day.

That video ended and Catra mindlessly clicked on another one, this was her third already, but each video felt like another piece of the puzzle she was making of Adora Grey.

The next video of Adora was different. Adora looked stressed as her eyebrows pinched in frustration while she danced. It wasn’t a performance, but a video taken on a phone in a studio as she moved through her steps. Whenever she made a mistake she dropped her frame with a frustrated expression before she walked back to her starting spot to begin again.

Catra’s heart ached for her, Adora looked close to tears. She started the dance again, this time it was more controlled, but less flow, going through the motions until the end. She stopped and shook her arms out before she started once again.

The video ended and Catra looked at the date the video was uploaded. Seven years ago. Would she have been with Melody at that time? Catra assumed they had dated for more than a year before they decided to have a child together but she didn’t know for sure.

Catra clicked on another recommended video and realised it was a news report on Mr Grey’s accident. Catra couldn’t hear the words of the report but saw the images flashing on scene of the truck and what remained of the car it hit. When they talked about his family there was a photo that someone clearly took of them grieving in the hospital after receiving the news of his passing. Adora looked inconsolable as she sobbed into Adam’s shoulder as he quietly cried. Adora was heavily pregnant.

It was disgusting to think that someone thought it was appropriate to take a photo of such a vulnerable moment for the family.

The report skipped forward to photos of Greyskull enterprises building before repeating photo’s of the crashed car and the truck. Catra’s stomach turned and she closed her laptop. She didn’t want to see all that. She rolled onto her back and closed her eyes to try to clear the images from her mind.

It was a tragedy what Adora and her family went through made even worse by how kind and sweet they had all been to her. Bad things did really happen to good people. Catra frowned. She hadn’t seen a magicat in the images of the family, was Melody really not there with Adora when she lost her father?

Catra already had a bad opinion of that woman but to think she could be so heartless as to leave her heavily pregnant girlfriend - possibly fiancee - alone while she grieved her father was completely wicked. Adora deserved better than Melody, and she hoped she knew that now.

Catra stared at the light colour of her roof, basked in warm hues of her lamp and bit her lip as she let her mind wander.

Catra felt guilty about thinking this way about a her boss, especially when she was grieving but she couldn’t help but think that motherhood looked good on Adora. Catra hadn’t considered what Adora looked like when she was pregnant but she was beautiful. There wasn’t many images online of her pregnancy, not that Catra had looked or anything. But motherhood suited Adora even now, she just needed more time to enjoy it and Catra desperately wanted to see Adora enjoy her family more.

#

Thursday morning was a mad dash to get everything organised for the trip. She was dead set that she was going to spend 4 days relaxing with Finn and Catra in the snow, she would do whatever it took to get things ready for her break.

Adora remembered that she needed to check Dee had bought what Catra needed for the trip. When she called Dee they had assured her that Catra had everything she needed from the first shop. They told her to check the invoice and let them know if they were wrong.

Adora assumed they were correct but decided to check the invoice for herself quickly. Adora didn’t get far down the list before she saw Dee had bought Catra lingerie and Adora felt her cheeks heat at the thought. She clicked out of the invoice immediately and decided to trust Dee’s word on this. Adora did not need to know that Catra had a red bra in her arsenal.

Adora shook her head to try to dispel the creeping thoughts when her intercom beeped and she hit the button to accept the call.

“Catra is running a little late, the young Princen lost a tooth,” Mermista said in a low drawl and Adora sat up straight in her chair at the news.

“Are they alright?” She asked in a panic.

“They’re fine, she said it was the lose one,” Mermista assured her and she let out a relieved breath as she leaned back into her chair.

“That’s a relief,” Adora said and Mermista hummed.

“Yeah, she’ll be about twenty minutes,” Mermista said and Adora thanked her before the line cut and Adora leaned back in her chair. She had a gift for Finn for their tooth but it was the same gift she had gotten them for all their teeth, maybe it was getting boring? Adora had gold teeth made that replicated the ones that Finn had been loosing, they had a little box they kept the teeth in. Finn thought they were cool but now that they had lost six of their teeth, Adora wondered if the gift was getting old.

Maybe Adora could get something else as a bonus gift for from the Tooth Ferret. She would have to do some research before Finn arrived.

#

Catra had finished packing what clothes she had, the jacket Dee had got her didn’t seem as thick as Adora suggested she might need, but she was covered in fur so she would probably be fine. When Finn and Adora arrived home Finn excitedly checked their glass of water with a tooth at the bottom which was sitting on the counter in the kitchen. They were disappointed to see that the tooth was still there.

“The Tooth Ferret doesn’t come in the daylight, they will come when you are sleeping and they will leave you something special,” Adora said to Finn and their disappointment returned to excitement as they had dinner and got ready for bed.

Finn helped Adora pack their clothing for their trip before being put to bed with extra books to help them relax. Catra was tired from her day but waited up till she was sure Finn was sleeping and went out into the kitchen to leave her wooden toy. Adora was in the kitchen pouring out the glass of water and removing Finn’s baby tooth.

“You beat me to it,” Catra whispered and Adora jumped, spilling some water on the counter near the sink. Catra grinned at the light glare she received and Adora dropped a gold tooth into the empty glass before she placed it back on the counter. Catra leaned down to look at the tooth replica with interest before she smiled.

“Very educational,” Catra said with a playful glance at Adora who was cleaning the mess she made.

“They’ll have a full set once they stop losing baby teeth,” Adora informed her, not denying it was a practical gift.

“Your Tooth Ferret is more bougie than mine was, how much are these teeth worth?” Catra said, putting the wooden toy on the counter. Adora looked at the toy curiously.

“The set is about 30 grand. You got something for Finn’s tooth?” Adora said brushing past the price like it wasn’t important just to ask about Catra’s ten dollar toy. She suddenly felt embarrassed by how small her gift was, but it wasn’t the price that mattered, it was the meaning.

“Yeah, loosing teeth is a big deal for Magicats, and the more gifts the merrier, though I can’t really compete with gold,” Catra said, playfully but her words were true. Adora picked up the small wooden toy to play with the moving joints with interest.

“That’s very sweet of you. This is really well made,” Adora said and Catra smiled.

“Yeah, I got it from the markets I go to on Sunday mornings, you should come check it out,” Catra offered and Adora nodded.

“Did you use your company card to pay for this?” Adora asked, sounding suspicious. Catra rarely put anything on her company credit card and it seemed that Ms Grey had noticed.

“No, it didn’t cost that much,” Catra said, shrugging her shoulders but only received a mild glare as Ms Grey considered her.

“Expenses for Finn are work expenses,” She said firmly and Catra rolled her eyes. Yes, it was a work expense if Catra didn’t want to get gifts for Finn, but she did so she used her money to do it.

“Gifts are gifts. I can afford it,” Catra said and Adora looked like she wanted to argue but didn’t push any further as she looked back at the toy. They were both silent for a moment as Adora folded and unfolded the joints.

“Thank you, for getting this for Finn,” Adora said, sounding a little in awe of the gesture.

“You’re welcome, its traditional to give toys like these for lost teeth. Losing teeth is about growing up but growing up doesn’t mean giving up things that make you happy, like toys,” Catra said and Adora looked deep in thought for a long moment before she put the toy beside the glass. She nodded her head with a little frown before she raised her eyes to look at Catra.

“That is a good lesson to teach,” Adora said, her soft blue eyes causing Catra’s heart to flutter. Adora tone was so gentle that Catra’s embarrassment wash away to be replaced by a spreading warmth in her chest. Adora didn’t shy away from the eye contact this time but when Catra felt her cheeks heating up she broke the gaze in an attempt to hide.

“I should get to bed,” Catra said quickly and Adora nodded as she looked away.

“Yes, we’ll see you bright and early tomorrow,” Adora said, her voice sounding a little higher and faster than usual. She turned towards the sink like there was still water to clean but nothing remained.

“Yes, goodnight,” Catra said, trying to hide her returning embarrassment. The subject had changed but this embarrassment was much stronger.

“Night,” Ms Grey threw over her shoulder and Catra quickly returned to her room as her heart raced too fast against her ribs. Catra leaned back against the door and sighed deeply. She put her hand to her chest to try to slow her heart, she was being ridiculous, but she knew one thing was for sure, this crush was quickly getting out of control.

Chapter Text

It turned out that waking Finn before four in the morning was a surefire way to get a very fussy kitten. They were tired and grumpy enough to refuse to cooperate while getting dressed. Usually Finn would handle dressing themselves but Catra had to help with every garment as they sluggishly moved through the motions.

As Ms Grey entered the room to check on them Finn started to cry and wanted to be picked up as fussy turned into overwhelmed in an instant at the sight of their mother.

Adora soothed them while Catra picked up where Adora left off, packing some snacks for Finn for the trip. When Adora came into the kitchen she told Finn that the Tooth Ferret had come. It wasn’t enough to get Finn smiling but the tears stopped as they looked at their gifts. Adora was whispering to them, using her softest mum voice, to ask if Finn wanted to put their tooth away. Finn nodded their head and Adora took them back to their room to put things away safely.

When they returned Catra was done getting the last of their things together and there was a knock at the door. Catra answered it so the security staff could take their bags down to the lobby for them. Finn was clutching the wooden toy to their chest as they snuggled into their mothers shoulder and Catra made eye contact with Adora’s over their head.

“So fussy,” Catra mouthed and Adora smiled, her eyes crinkling with the motion before she nodded. Adora gave some pets to Swifty as he came to see what they were doing. Adora had arranged for Glimmer to come pick up Swifty to stay with them for the week, but Glimmer couldn’t come get them till the evening so he would have a lazy day at home before he got to play with Pixie.

They locked up the house and armed the alarm before following security down to the lobby and out to the street. There were two cars parked there and Catra looked at the second four wheel drive curiously. Juliet stepped out with two other security people to talk to Adora.

“This is a little overkill isn’t it?” Adora asked, her tone light but her nerves coming through at the end. Juliet looked apologetic.

“Someone told the press you are travelling today,” Juliet said and Adora sighed from deep within her chest. “We’ve alerted the security at the airport and we have enough for crowd control if more than a few journalists show up. The staff will take you straight through security to the first class lounge where you can wait for the flight and I’ve organised someone to meet you at the other end,” Juliet said and Adora nodded her head.

“Thanks,” she said tightly and focused on getting Finn into their seat as they fussed about not letting go of their mum. “You’re okay, I’ll be right beside you,” Adora said softly and Finn nodded and finally let go.

Catra was standing on the other side of the car with the door open. She was waiting for Ms Grey to sit in the middle - somehow - when she heard Finn’s little voice call.

“Miss Catra…” Catra’s ears pricked up and she crouched to look at them. Adora had finished putting them into their seat and closed the door. Finn’s little hand was outstretched to her and Catra wanted to slide in beside them. Adora arrived next to her and smiled.

“You can sit with them, I don’t think I will fit in the middle,” Adora said and Catra smiled. She wanted to tease Ms Grey about being ‘too big’ but she bit her tongue to stop herself. Catra slid in beside Finn and took their hand. They started to purr and she matched it as she bucked herself in.

Adora slid in beside her and did her own seat belt before the convoy set off to the airport. The Grey’s house was surprisingly far from the airport and both Catra and Finn dozed off in the time it took to get there.

Catra woke slowly, rubbing her cheek against the comfortable surface she laid against. The soft trembling of the surface alerted her to the fact that maybe what she was laying against was alive. Catra’s eyes snapped open and she looked up at the side of Adora’s face. Adora was watching her from the corner of her eye and the soft shaking was apparently barely contained laughter at her actions. Catra’s face heated up and she sat up straight quickly adding what little distance she could between them without waking Finn.

“Sorry,” Catra whispered and Adora shrugged her shoulder casually.

“Its fine, I’m sorry She-ra isn’t very comfortable,” Adora said with a small smile.

“She is pretty comfortable actually,” Catra said, her cheeks hot as she didn’t look directly at Adora and instead out the window to try to orient herself.

“I’ll be sure to tell Entrapta that there was an unintentional benefit to her design,” Adora said with a small smile. Catra sleepily looked at her smile for too long and Adora cleared her throat. She glanced out the window. “We’ll be there soon, the driver will get our bags and Juliet will keep the press away, but keep your head down unless you’d like to be in the news,” Adora said with a frown wrinkling her brow.

“Oh, no thanks, I don’t need Mum to ask more questions,” Catra said rolling her eyes before she realised what she said. She must still be half asleep to say something like that. “I mean, she, uh…”

“Does she worry?” Adora asked gently and Catra looked back at her.

“She does, but she likes gossip magazines so she would be delighted to see me in another one,” Catra said with a smile and Adora nodded.

“Her and Casta would get along well,” Adora said thoughtfully and Catra grinned.

“Like a house on fire,” Catra said, her tail flicking playfully.

“Mn, perhaps we should avoid that,” Adora said, the playful tone coming back as her blue eyes tracked Catra’s wayward tail.

“Probably for the best,” Catra agreed, trying to school her face to be serious. Adora’s lip twitched before she looked back at Catra’s face.

Catra noticed the car slowing down and looked around to take in the environment they were going into. Adora looked too, distracted by a crowd of people by the doors of the airport. Adora let out a long and slow sigh.

“Can you unbuckle Finn when we stop and we will all get out together and go inside,” Adora said like she was reciting battle plans and Catra nodded her agreement. She turned to Finn, gently rocking them to rouse them enough that they wouldn’t be startled awake.

“Its just me, Finny,” Catra reassured and Finn’s hands gripped around to try to get their toy they had been holding. Catra’s heart swelled at the sleepy grabby hands and gave them the wooden toy before the car stopped and it was go time.

Catra unbuckled Finn and carefully lifted them out of their seat to wrap them in her arms. Adora nodded and Catra nodded back before she opened the door. Catra slid along the chair as Adora got out of the car. Catra misunderstood the assignment and thought Adora would take Finn from her arms so she could get up but instead Adora helped her to her feet with one strong arm around her waist.

Catra felt herself blush but as soon as she was on her feet they were moving towards the airport doors. The flashes of camera’s and shouted questions were loud in the early morning air but the airport security stopped them getting any closer and they didn’t stay to chat. Adora’s arm remained around Catra’s waist, her body sufficient cover for not only Finn but Catra as well. Catra’s face was warm at the contact but it didn’t disappear until they reached security and were scanned through.

Only when they were inside the first class lounge with plenty of security did Adora relax and turned to check on Finn in Catra’s arms. Finn was a dead weight as they purred sleepily. Adora gave their ears a few gentle pets before she sighed with relief.

“I’m glad they slept through that,” Adora said gently and Catra nodded.

“Definitely the preferred option, I wish I could have done that,” Catra joked and Adora smiled.

“I could have carried you,” Adora said playfully and Catra rolled her eyes.

“The press would have loved to see that,” Catra said and instead of Ms Grey finding that funny, it seemed to dampen her mood. Catra could imagine that any novelty or humour about the press had worn off a long time ago.

“Lets get some breakfast,”Adora said, gently directing Catra to move towards the soft lounges and tables.

Catra sat down and looked at the menu as Finn settled in her lap with their head against her shoulder, they were content not to move and Catra didn’t mind her weighted blanket.

“Uh, nothing has prices,” Catra said, she looked up to see Adora smile.

“Its included in the price of the ticket,” Adora said and Catra scoffed.

“You’re telling me grade A wagyu beef skewers is included in my ticket price?” Catra asked and Adora nodded “How? How much did the ticket cost?” Catra asked then reconsidered when Adora opened her mouth to respond. “Actually, don’t answer that, it will just depress me if its more than my masters program,” Catra said looking back at the menu when Adora laughed. After a short silence Adora asked.

“How much is your masters?”

“Just under 50k,” Catra said looking back at Adora’s face to see her trying to hide a smile.

“Your ticket isn’t worth more than your masters,” Adora said but Catra didn’t like the emphasis she put on the word ‘your’. What that suggested to Catra was that their three ticket did. Catra huffed again.

“If its free I’m eating steak for breakfast,” Catra said and Adora just smiled. When someone came over to take their orders Adora ordered Catra two serves of the wagyu steak and she got some high protein breakfast bowl for herself and chicken for Finn when they woke up.

When the food arrived Catra tried the succulent juicy steak curiously and moaned perhaps too convincingly as Ms Grey’s cheeks coloured. Adora glanced around the room a little shyly but no one seemed to care about Catra’s over the top reaction to the food.

“Ohmahgawh,” Catra said, her hand covering her mouth as she tried to talk before she even swallowed. “Its so soft, it just melts in your mouth,” Catra said, after swallowing and quickly taking another bite. Adora cleared her throat as she looked back at Catra with a small smile and red cheeks.

“I’m glad you like it,” Adora said, looking genuine. Catra felt bad for embarrassing Adora but she couldn’t help her reaction. She’s had some fancy food since working for the Grey’s but this was her new favourite.

“I’m in heaven,” Catra said dramatically and Adora’s smile grew as she watched Catra enjoy herself and Adora tucked into her healthy breakfast.

Finn woke with enough time to eat their breakfast and play with their toy for a while before they were called to the gate for boarding.

Finn was still fussy and not their normal self. Catra couldn’t blame them, the airport had a lot of sounds and when she realised they were possibly reacting to the extra stimulation she got out their earphones to lower one trigger. Adora was talking to the flight attendant before she came back to Finn and Catra.

“The seats are split by room,” Adora said and Catra turned to her.

“Rooms? On the air plane?” Catra asked, confusion clearly on her face.

“Yeah, two of the rooms are adjoined so Finn and I will take that one, but you’ll have your own room,”

“On the air plane?” Catra asked again, Adora was clearly not taking her question seriously and smiled a little cocky. Why did she have to do that to Catra?

“Yes, rooms, on the plane. You are welcome to join us, I’m sure Finn will want to watch something since they are having a hard travel day,” Adora said, stroking Finns little ears which they leaned into. They couldn’t hear their conversation but they didn’t try to take their earphones out in order to hear them, so they didn’t seem to care what they were missing.

It didn’t take long for them to start boarding, Catra found her room and was shocked that it was actually a room. It had a chair, a fold out bed and a large television screen. Catra put down her carry on luggage as she looked around. Adora and Finn were across the hall from her and Catra was still questioning how this was a plane.

“Our room is bigger,” Finn said, looking into the room curiously and Catra smiled at them.

“Oh yeah, show me,” Catra said playfully and Finn grabbed her hand to pull her into the other room. It was indeed bigger, at least twice the size with two folded bed in the middle and a divider that had been lowered. Catra was in awe. She now really didn’t want to know how much this ticket cost and why Ms Grey had bought her one at all. Catra could have travelled economy without complaint.

#

They had to take their seats for takeoff and landing but Catra spent her time in the Grey’s room watching kids movies with Finn while Adora worked on her laptop to ignore the view out the plane window. Finn napped on and off during the movies and when the plane landed they were recovered enough to return to their normal levels of energy.

The first step when they arrived was to get their bags and to meet their security detail before they left the airport. They dressed in their snow clothes before leaving but Catra immediately shivered when they stepped out into the cold.

Adora had been focused on the next step of the plan to get them to the relative safety of their secluded cabin and hadn’t noticed the jacket Catra was wearing. Catra made a little squeak as she wrapped her arms around herself and Finn looked up at her curiously.

“Why are you wearing that jacket? Didn’t Dee buy you snow gear?” Adora asked, her voice coming out clipped. She was going to be angry if it turned out that Dee had lied about Catra having the appropriate clothing.

“N-no,” Catra chattered, she was already trembling like a leaf and Adora wrapped an arm around her to help with the cold.

“Lets get you warmed up first, then I’ll buy you some proper snow gear,” And fire Dee.

“T-thank you,” Catra said. They were rushed to the car by security and whisked away before any press could see them. The car was warm and large, so Catra wasn’t squished between the car seat and Ms Grey on the drive into the city.

Adora requested they make a stop at a store for snow gear and the driver took them directly. Adora was worried that Finn would be spotted by the press so they stayed in the car with the driver while Catra and Adora went in to shop.

When Catra entered the shop the attendant noticed her immediately. “Oh you poor dear!” The male Magicat cooed and Catra flushed. “You must be freezing.” Adora stepped into the shop behind her and the man looked at her curiously. “Do my eyes deceive me? Adora Grey?” The man asked, his eyes big and sparkling with excitement.

“Yes?” Adora asked, her voice guarded and unsure what she was being recognised from.

“My husband and I loved you in Sleeping beauty! He’s not going to believe me when I tell him,” The man said clearly starstruck and Adora offered a tentative smile. It was nice to know some people still recognised her from her time on stage.

“Thank you, that’s good to hear,”

“Anytime, anytime, what can I do for you ladies?” the man asked, his eyes skimming from Adora to Catra and back before he remembered. “You are going to need a better jacket than that honey or you’ll freeze out here,” he said and Adora nodded.

“Yes, can you help Catra pick out some snow clothes, she’ll need enough for the week and some snow boots,” Adora said and Catra still hadn’t managed to stop shaking yet.

“Right away, Ms Grey, oh, that kinda rhymed, come with me,” the man motioned for Catra to follow and she did. Adora looked around the shop as she waited while the two Magicats talked quietly and Adora gravitated closer to hear their conversation.

“Anything but pink,” Catra said firmly.

“That’s a shame, you would look great in pink,”

“I hate pink with a passion, so any other colour is fine,” Catra said, her arms crossed not only from the chill but petulance as she pouted cutely. Adora silently agreed with the shop keep but wisely kept her mouth shut. She wanted Catra to be comfortable and she didn’t need any help looking good.

The shop keep made Catra try on some things and several boots before she had a nice maroon jacket and thick black pants with black snow boots on. She looked incredible.

Adora paid for the items without asking how much they cost and was only a little caught off guard when the shop keep asked for an autograph to show his husband. Adora wrote in and signed a little book the man offered and soon they were on their way to the cabin.

Catra was quiet on the drive there but no one could get a word in as Finn regaled the car with one of their stories, so maybe she was just listening.

The cabin was high in the mountains, far from the main hotel to ensure they were isolated and difficult to find on foot. Adora didn’t want to be bothered while she was out here and their earlier run in with the press had her on edge.

The cabin was large, with three rooms and a large kitchen and living room area. Adora had requested the kitchen was stocked with food. Their dinner was already made for the night so they could relax and unwind from travel before Adora started her meetings the next morning.

Catra seemed in awe of the cabin, it wasn’t as big as the penthouse but it was roomy and the bathroom was big enough for a spa bath. Adora could admit to herself that she might enjoy wowing Catra.

The way Catra reacted to breakfast and the first class rooms filled Adora with a strange need to spoil her with new experiences. Catra’s appreciation of the smaller things in life made Adora want to show her the things she’d been missing. Not because she thought Catra would like them more, but just to see the way her eyes grew big as she stared in wonder.

The living room had a fireplace that Adora wasted no time lighting and their suitcases were taken to their rooms before the driver left. He would return in the morning to take Adora to her meeting, but for now, she could relax.

Finn was running in and out of the rooms excitedly as the house warmed up with the combined efforts of the heating and the fireplace. Adora sat down on the couch and stared at the fire. Taking a moment to enjoy no one needing anything from her as she watched the flames licking the wood.

The creak of floorboards was the only sound as Catra came back into the room and went to the kitchen to look at their supplies. Catra turned on the kettle and started to look through the teas before she opened cabinets to try to find the mugs.

“Tea?” Catra’s voice travelled but she kept it light. They had been served lunch in the air and it was now approaching late afternoon. They could probably have dinner soon and an early night before Finn started the classes and activities Adora had found for them to do while she was busy.

“Sure, what do we have?” Adora asked and Catra made a face as she looked at the options.

“Honestly, I’m not sure I can pronounce some of these,” Catra said, her tail waving playfully as she squinted at the names.

“I’ll try anything once,” Adora said casually and Catra smiled before she sniffed one of the teabags.

“This smells like black tea,”

“That works,” Adora agreed and Catra nodded, making Adora and herself tea before she went to check on Finn. Finn came back with Catra and she made them a hot chocolate with the magicat blend and added marshmallows before they came to join them in the living room.

They sat in silence as they enjoyed their drinks. Finn was equally transfixed with the fire as Adora was. Finn was still tired, but it was more in a, ‘its already been a long day’ kind of way instead of a ‘I’ll die if I don’t get more sleep’ kind of way. Finn finished their drink and snuggled into Adora’s side as they watched the flames. Their ears were twitching adorably every time the flames moved unexpectedly.

Catra’s soft gasp caught Adora’s attention and she looked over at her. Catra got to her feet and went to the window.

“Is that snow?” Catra asked. Adora frowned, it was far too early in the season for snow, surely. Finn was intrigued and jumped up to join Catra at the window. Catra picked them up when requested and they both stared at the falling ice.

Adora was surprised to realise, it really was snow. She watched the two Magicats tracking the falling crystals. At one point Finn moved their hand like they could catch one. The soft ‘donk’ of their hand hitting the glass didn’t seem to bother them as they both focused on the snowflake Finn attempted to catch.

It was adorable.

Adora was completely distracted from the fire to watch the two of them as their tails swayed playfully and they watched the snow fall.

#

It took hours before Catra and Finn lost interest in the snow. Adora was organising dinner when Catra came over to the kitchen to join her, finally spent on her staring.

“Its really coming down out there,” Catra said casually and reached forward to try to steal some of the sausage off the charcuterie board. Adora was surprisingly fast as she blocked Catra’s attempt with her hand. Her gaze only a little challenging, daring her to try again. Catra refrained, only just.

“I checked the forecast and it seems we are going to get a lot of snow overnight,” Adora confirmed.

“That wont cause any trouble getting out of here tomorrow right?” Catra asked, a little nervous because of her lack of experience with snow. Adora shook her head.

“It should be fine, it might just take a little longer to get around,” Adora said and picked up the board to take it back to the warmth of the fire. The heating did okay, but the fire was pumping out some serious heat, so they gravitated close to it as the temperature dropped and the sun set.

Adora, Catra and Finn were sitting on the couch watching a movie when the lights went out and Finn screamed.

“Its okay, we’re okay,” Adora said gently and Catra felt Finn move beside her as Adora took them into her lap. Catra sat where she was, blinking to adjust her eyes to the new light. It was so dark and the fire was now the only light in the room. She looked at the warm glow of light that outlined Adora and Finn.

“I’ll have a look for a generator,” Catra said and pushed herself up from the couch. Catra checked the whole house carefully but didn’t find any sign of a generator. She was sure a place like this should have one so she put on her boots to check outside.

Catra went to the back door but when she turned the handle it didn’t budge. She tried again with some more force but the wood just creaked and didn’t move. The handle was moving but the door was not, she looked at the gap by the hinges and noticed the ice growing there.

Catra sighed and went back to the room to get Adora. “I think the generator is outside, but I can’t open the back door,” Catra explained. Adora got to her feet and with some gentle coaxing, got Finn to agree to go with Catra for the time being. Catra held them close and purred soothingly as she heard the loud crash of the door being forced open. The cool breeze from the outside washing away some of the warmth from the room and Catra grabbed a blanket from the couch to wrap around Finn and herself.

It wasn’t long before Adora returned with an unimpressed look on her face.

“The generator is out there, but there’s no fuel in the canister,” Adora said, pushing her hair back from her face with both her hands. “I’ll call the resort and see if they can send someone out,” Adora said and Catra nodded.

The one sided call was not promising. Adora was using her business voice and Catra was rocking Finn as they hid their face in the blanket.

“Thank you,” Ms Grey said before she hung up and sighed.

“Bad news?” Catra asked curiously and Adora nodded her head.

“The power is out for the whole area, emergency services is aware and trying to get it back as soon as possible but they have higher risk people to worry about. If we really need it they can send someone out in a few hours,” Adora said and Catra frowned a little but nodded.

“Okay, so we should work out how to keep the heat from escaping and go from there,” Catra said and Adora nodded. Adora took Finn back and Catra helped to close as many curtains and blinds as she could find. She closed all the rooms that they weren’t using except the bedrooms.

Finn sits on the couch to watch them doing things and Adora brought more wood inside to keep the fire going. Once the fire was heating the house they decided to go to their rooms to hunker down for the night.

#

Adora wasn’t in her room for long before Finn’s shaking forced her back into the living room. She brought every blanket she could find that didn’t belong to Catra in order to make a nest of bedding right near the fire. Once Adora got it all set up and got Finn settled into the warmth they were asleep in no time. It had been a long and stressful travel day for them and Adora was happy to see them finally settled.

Adora was laying in front of the fire holding Finn close to keep them warm. The room was freezing but they were warm and comfortable enough to sleep. Adora was struggling to fall asleep because Catra was still in her room and Adora was worried she must be cold.

She was relieved when she heard the soft click of a door opening and quick footsteps from the dark.

Adora couldn’t see Catra until she stepped into the warm glow of the fire but she appeared completely wrapped up in a blanket with only her face showing. Adora smiled at the image. Catra looked a embarrassed as she looked down at the pile of blankets and pillows Adora had made to keep them warm.

“My windows are freezing over,” Catra murmured as an excuse and Adora nodded.

“Please join us,” Adora said and Catra looked unsure for a moment.

“Should I… uh, how?” Catra asked how to enter the nest of blankets Adora had made.

“Oh, here,” She motioned to the edge of the blanket Finn and her were under. “Maybe put your blankets on top too and then come under here,” Adora continued.

“Okay,” Catra said, pulling the blankets from around her and immediately starting to shake. She laid the blankets down before quickly getting into the nest but kept a distance from Adora and Finn that Adora felt was unnecessary. They needed to get through the night and sharing body heat would be the best way to keep them all comfortable.

“Come here, you’ll warm up faster if we are close together,” Adora explained and saw Catra’s face colour. She bit her lip as she appeared to be thinking before she scooted closer to Adora. Adora rolled onto her back, keeping Finn against her right side and put her left arm around Catra to pull her against her side. “You’re not going to get any warmth from She-ra,” Adora said and Catra nodded.

Catra barely appeared to be breathing but soon her trembling stopped with a sigh. Adora let out a breath she didn’t know that she was holding as Catra relaxed against her side. Catra was warm and soft against her and Adora tried to ignore that information as she attempted sleep again.

“Thank you,” Catra whispered and Adora smiled.

“Goodnight, Catra,” Adora whispered, finally feeling the pull of sleep as the anxiety left her body.

“Goodnight…Adora…” Catra murmured as she tucked her face against Adora’s shoulder and her hand flexed against her side. A gentle purr springing to life in the still cold night as the fire crackled to keep them warm.

Morning came and with it, the warmth from the sun. The light spilled into the living room through the gaps in the curtains and warmed their little nest. Adora moved during the night and Finn had found a new comfy spot between Catra and Adora’s bodies. Adora was wrapped around Catra as she was burrowed into her neck and held Finn pressed against her chest.

The two Magicats were purring loudly, their breaths slightly out of sync like a tiny echo. Adora didn’t want to disturb their sleep or move away from their warmth, so instead of rising with the sun, she pretended to not notice their unprofessional proximity and decided to go back to sleep for once. She was on holiday - technically - and if Catra asked, she could use staying warm as an excuse.

#

Catra woke up slowly, she was warm, purring and comfortable. She planned to nestle down further into the warmth and sleep some more when she felt someone move against her. She was aware of the small purring bundle in her arms who was sleeping soundly as they shared warmth but Catra became aware of another moving body. The heavy arm wrapped around her back moved and the gentle stroke filled Catra with warmth as she realised the warm thing her face was buried in was unlikely to be a pillow.

Catra peaked an eye open to see the blue fleas pyjamas that Adora had put on the night before and the button barely hanging on as it tried to keep her chest covered. Her pyjamas were twisted around her body tightly like she moved a lot in her sleep but she was laying contently as a gentle snore left her lips parted.

Adora looked so beautiful when she slept, seeing her so relaxed made Catra feel lucky. The soft light of the early morning was coming in through the window and it made Adora look like an angel. Adora started to moved again and Catra realised she was waking up and closed her eyes to resumed her strong purr as she pretended to be asleep.

Catra expected Adora to move away to a more appropriate distance but she only stretched and adjusted her clothing. She then wrapped her arm around Catra and Finn again before she promptly went back to sleep. Catra was so surprised that Adora had decided to sleep and followed Adora’s example by returning to sleep herself.

When they woke again, Finn was fussing to get out of the blankets so Catra had to move away from Adora to allow them to get up and run to the bathroom. Adora laid on her back to rub her face with her palms and Catra wished she could curl into her again and sleep.

Once Adora was done rubbing the sleep from her eyes she got out of the bed to get more firewood to stoke the fire. It wasn’t awkward like Catra had feared, but it did feel like not nearly enough.

Catra distracted herself from her feelings as she set to making breakfast for Finn. Half way through making Finn’s food, the power whirled back to life. Finn giggled with excitement and jumped around asking for a hot chocolate which Catra provided with their meal.

Once the house was warmed up again, they remade their beds before Adora and Catra made their breakfast together. After breakfast the driver arrived to take them to the resort and start the days properly.

Catra was looking forward to seeing Ms Grey in holiday mode once her meetings were over, but when Adora left them to enjoy the snow, Catra couldn’t help but miss her a little.

Chapter Text

Adora was concerned that she would look into the crowd of hungry investors and not see a friendly face among them. Without Adam and Angella she felt unsteady with no one to ground her or her ideas. But, she was wrong. As she entered the meeting room and saw the smiling faces of two of her board members who agreed with her fathers legacy. Because they helped write it. She was reminded that she was privileged to have two of her fathers closest friends on her board of directors and they had offered nothing but support over the years. 

Adora offered a warm smile to Stefen Dyperia, with his mop of brown hair and his fluffy winter jacket pulled up around his neck even in the warmth of the room. He had been her fathers first investor, best friend, and best man at his wedding. Many thought they were brothers, built strong and tall but with kind smiles. Stefen looked freezing, he spent most of his life in Mystacor and its surrounding tropical islands, so the weather was hitting him hard. He returned Adora’s smile with a dorky thumbs up that would have make her father proud. 

Sitting to his left was Carnivus Fervelius, his long ginger coat keeping him warm in the cold weather. His feline ears were laid back in a hat to keep them warm. He looked toasty in his light jacket, much more acclimatise to to the snow since he live here all year round. He offered a smile to Adora that was all fanged exhilaration for the meeting to come. His fluffy tail was flicking with interest as everyone settled around the room. Carn was a chaotic being by nature.  

Carn and Stef had both agreed with Adora’s desire to not use Greyskull for military research and it was a relief. Not only because she had known them her whole life, but because she would never want to argue a point against them. They were both brilliant men in their own right and owned their own well established businesses. 

The first day of meetings was long and boring.  They had speakers for each side of the debate, talking about the research they would like to encourage Greyskull to participate in and the profits they could garner. Adora was interested in a few suggestions that were non-military and did make a note to look into several avenues that the investors brought to her attention. Not a completely wasted day at least. 

The board wouldn’t be speaking until the second day with Adora and Primus both choosing to speak at the end of the third day before the votes were placed. They would know the outcome of this whole farce by the end of Monday at least. 

With so many investors speaking on the first day, it ran into the night and they decided to finish the speakers while they ordered dinner from the resort. 

Adora was disappointed when she got back to the cabin to find Catra and Finn had already gone to bed. She checked on Finn, their room toasty warm as they purred happily snuggled into their blankets with at least three plushies surrounding them. 

Adora wanted to check on Catra too but she didn’t want to invade her privacy or startle her awake so instead Adora forced herself to go to bed. The day had been long and tomorrow would be the same. 

The second day of meetings was filled with varying opinions from the board members. Adora listened keenly, so she could address all their claims when it was her turn to speak. 

Adora was starting to get agitated by the repeated reference to the military research and benefits of high powered prosthetics and how they could save lives. They had completely ignored how those same prosthetics they were suggesting could easily kill someone, including the user themselves. Adora wasn’t going to allow that, it was a gross misuse of company information and far too dangerous. She might not know the depths of the technology like Entrapta did, but Adora had her own experiences to share. 

Adora breathed a sigh of relief as the meeting came to a close and everyone was permitted to leave. Carn and Stef both hung back and came to join Adora as she rose to from her chair. She glanced at them curiously. 

“Lets get dinner, its been too long,” Carn said, his smile warm but no less sharp. His desire to speak of the meeting somewhere private was evident in the excited twitch of the end of his tail. 

“Where did you have in mind?” Adora asked, pulling out her phone to check the time. She didn’t want to be out late again so she could see Finn and Catra before they went to sleep. 

“The resort restaurant has private booths. I booked one for tonight. Did you bring Finn?” Stef offered warmly, even as his arms were crossed over his chest to hold his jacket close to his body. The way he was acting anyone would think he was dying from the cold. 

“I did, I’ll get my driver to pick them up,” Adora agreed.

“Excellent!” Carn said, “We’re going to change and will meet you there when you’re ready,” Adora nodded. 

“Sure, we’ll see you soon,” Adora said and they took their leave while she made a call to her driver and then to Catra.

“Hello?” Catra answered, a giggle in her voice as a soft thud sounded somewhere in the background. 

“Would you like to go to dinner at the resort?” Adora asked and Catra made a surprised trilling sound. It was so cute. 

“To dinner?” Catra’s voice was barely more than a whisper.

“Yes, I sent the car to get you both, if you are interested in coming to have dinner with me and two of my fathers friends,” Adora explained, her cheeks warming needlessly as she explained. She wanted Catra to come, but she didn’t want to deny her the opportunity to have the night off if she wanted it. 

“Oh, I see, is this, like, a work meeting?” Catra asked.

“We will likely talk about the meeting a little, but mostly its a chance to catch up with old friends,” Adora offered, finally leaving the meeting room and heading for the lounge area to wait. 

“Oh, that’s easy, is there a dress code?”

“No dress code, whatever your wearing will be fine,” Adora said, imagining Catra and Finn hadn’t been home long from their ski lessons. 

“I doubt that, we are in pyjamas and making a pillow fort,” Catra said proudly and Adora smiled.

“Ah, then you will have to dress up more than that,” Adora corrected and Catra giggled. 

“I thought so. I’ll get the little lion ready and we’ll see you soon,” Catra said, a smile in her voice that made it impossible to stop Adora’s from growing. 

“See you soon,” she confirmed and after a moment there was a soft click to end the call. 

Adora put the phone away before sitting in the lounge area by the fire. As soon as she sat down a woman appeared to take her order. Adora ordered something sweet but non-alcoholic. She wasn’t really much of a drinker, unless it was socially. She had stopped drinking all together when she was pregnant with Finn and never really returned to it after they were born and no longer nursing. 

Adora was enjoying sitting in the lounge watching the fire across the coffee table when she became aware of someone behind her. When she realised, She-ra flexed against her will and Adora glanced over her shoulder. She relaxed once she recognised the woman standing there. 

“Hello Ms Powers,” Adora said as the woman moved around the couch to sit beside her. Adora instinctively hunched in her shoulders and adjusted her seating to take up less space, and widening the gap between them. Adora was paranoid about the press taking pictures of her with anyone, but even more so now with them hot on their tail for this trip. She didn’t need someone starting a rumour about her spending her evenings with a board member. 

“I’ve told you before that you can call me Evelyn, Adora,” Evelyn said with a smile as she crossed her legs and adjusted her skirt. Adora didn’t respond to the offer. She had been told before, but in honesty, Adora liked the clear distinction between her personal life and her work life. Adora did wonder if Ms Powers was cold in her skirt though. Adora definitely didn’t see herself wearing that to the snow, no matter how nice and warm it was by the fire in the lounge. 

“Your speech was informative. I was disappointed to hear you were interested in military research,” Adora said instead. Evelyn laughed, like it was a funny joke. 

“Oh please Adora, you know military is where the big money is, its the way of the future, how do you plan to keep this company afloat if you ignore the possibilities,” 

“I think you will find that the company is more than just afloat, Ms Powers,” Adora said, her tone clipped and she sipped her forgotten drink to calm her temper. Adora didn’t look at Evelyn, her eyes scanning the room behind the fireplace for any signs of Catra and Finn. None yet. 

“For now maybe, but you can’t stick to your fathers model forever. It will get outdated and you’ll have to make some big changes if you don’t take the opportunities as they come,” Evelyn said and Adora shot her a glare. 

“I heard your speech Ms Powers, I don’t need the cliff-notes,” Adora said coldly and Evelyn sat back against the couch with a small, surprised laugh. 

“You’re right, I apologise. What are you doing out here all on your lonesome?” Evelyn asked, her tone changing to a light hearted tease. 

“I am far from lonesome. I was just enjoying the fire before I go to dinner,” Adora said, finishing her drink and placing it on the coffee table to be scooped up in an instant. 

“Do you have company for dinner?” Evelyn asked in a lower tone and Adora tried to ignore her flirty undertone. Evelyn had made her interest very clear over the years since Melody and Adora broke up, but Adora was not the same clueless woman she once was, and now she could spot a snake in the grass when she saw one.  

“Mama!” Finn’s little voice yelled excitedly as they ran to the couch to jump into Adora’s lap. Adora smiled and hugged them tightly. 

“There you are, Finny,” Adora said, warmth spreading through her at the sight of her child in such high spirits. Catra walked over to join them and put the bag she was holding on the coffee table. 

“I was being a lion and Miss Catra taught me to pounce,” Finn explained excitedly and Adora smiled at the adorable image that came to mind. 

“Sorry we’re late,” Catra said with a laugh. The small white specks in her hair dancing in the firelight as they slowly thawed. “In case you were wondering, its snowing outside,”  Catra pushed her hands into her curls to tussle the snow out and the droplets fell like fire crystals in the warm light. 

Adora may have been a little distracted by the display before Catra took off her outside jacket now that it was too warm by the fire. She was wearing a turtleneck that hugged her body modestly underneath but somehow Adora still felt dirty for looking. She looked down at Finn quickly, helping them as they also struggled to get out of their outside coat. 

“I was wondering what was taking so long, you had a long way to travel from the Savanna,” Adora said playfully. Finn took their jacket off and handed it to Catra to put in the bag she had with her. Adora wondered what she might be keeping in their, it was pretty big. 

“It was soo long,” Finn whined but returned to cuddling into Adora’s arms now they were free of their jacket. 

“The driver had to go so slow the whole way here, its crazy, some people can’t drive in the snow,” Catra said with a laugh. “Its me, I’m some people,” Catra added which made Adora chuckle. Finn jumped off her lap and Adora stood from the couch. She suddenly remembered that she had been talking to Evelyn Morgan Powers before they arrived. She turned to apologise only to realise Ms Powers had already left without Adora noticing. Adora frowned at the odd behaviour but shook it off. It just felt strange. 

“Lets get some dinner,” Adora said and led them towards the restaurant. When they arrived they were taken to the private booth that Carn had booked. Carn and Stef were already there and stood to greet Adora and Finn. Finn was immediately nervous seeing people they didn’t remember. Finn was staring at Carnivus with his imposing figure, large ginger mane, pale beard and smaller pointed ears. Finn had met both men when they were younger but clearly didn’t recognise them now.  

“Finny, this is Carn and Stef, do you remember them from your photo album?” Adora asked. Finn liked their photo album and it was a good way to help them remember people they didn’t see as often. Finn nodded their head slowly but still held onto Adora’s hand tightly. “They might need time to get comfortable,” Adora said.

“That’s perfectly fine,” Stef said with an understanding smile.  

Carn was the first one to notice Catra standing behind Finn and his face immediately broke into a grin. 

“And who is this lovely lady,” Carn said, offering his hand to shake and Catra rolled her eyes but took his hand. Carn kissed her hand flirtatiously and Adora felt her hackles rise at the display. She knew better than to react to those feelings but she felt protective of Catra’s comfort none the less. 

“You are climbing up the wrong tree there,” Catra said, her tone playful but her smile didn’t reach her eyes as she seemed unhappy with the act. 

“I fear my mate would agree,” Carn said with a laugh and released Catra’s hand quickly. “Its delightful to see another Qadian here. The cold does not attract our kind often,” Carn said, using the older Eternian name for a Magicats easily.

“I can see why, its freezing here,” Catra said, and Stef huffed.

“I told you,” Stef said, still wearing his outside jacket inside as he glared at his friend. 

“The biting cold is refreshing, I don’t understand what you mean,” Carn said with a chuckle. “Adora, introduce us to your…friend?” Carn said his sharp smile returning as his tail flicked with entertainment. 

“This is Catra, she’s my Nanny,” Adora explained. 

“Your Nanny?” Carn asked in a leading tone, his grin growing wider and Adora felt her cheeks colour. 

“My Nanny for Finn, Catra takes care of Finn for me,” Adora said quickly, somehow getting the embarrassing parent treatment from her fathers best friends. Adora was distracted from her embarrassment as Catra’s giggle caught her attention. 

“I take care of Finn,” Catra agreed, with a smile and Carn nodded sagely. 

“Pity, Adora could use someone to take care of her too,” Stef said, offering his gloved hand to shake and Catra did but she didn’t respond to his comment except a smile. 

“Well, lets sit” Adora said, motioning to the booth and everyone took their seat. Catra slid into the right side of the booth, then Finn then Adora. On the left side of the booth was Stef and then Carn. Keeping Carn within kicking distance was a plus for Adora in case he wanted to be any more embarrassing. 

Stef and Carn as predicted wanted to talk about the meeting and explained in depth all the plot holes for each person’s arguments. The issues where ones that Adora had considered but it was nice to confirm she hadn’t missed any. 

“Its silly they are focusing on all the good things about the prosthetic and not looking at the human element of it, like recovery time, training and compatibility,” Catra mentioned at one point during their discussions and Adora looked at her with surprise. 

Catra must have read into Greyskull since her job interview and Adora was impressed with her suggestion. Adora could show the board the negatives of She-ra instead of only seeing the positives. Adora looked back at Carn and Stef and they looked from Catra to Adora and then to She-ra. They clearly followed the same thought process Adora did. 

“That’s, not a bad idea,” Carn said, his tail flicking excitedly again as he grinned. Adora nodded, she would need to adjust her speech after dinner, but it was a good addition to show them the truth.  

They ordered their food as the conversation turned from work to more relaxed topics. Stef was talking about Mystacor and Adora was feeling excited for her families yearly Christmas trip. Adora was half way through a sentence when the food arrived. The only thing she could hear was the soft gasp of delight that Catra made when she saw her meal. Adora’s eyes flitted to her and she couldn't stop the smile that grew on her face. Catra's big eyes were everything Adora had expected and more. She wanted to be the reason for Catra to give that look a million times over.

When Adora turned her attention to her own food she felt her cheeks warm as she saw Carn’s grin from the corner of her eyes. She was tempted to kick him, but knew better than to do that in public or he would make a scene.   

Adora wanted to spoil Catra because she was grateful to her for taking care of Finn while Adora was working, that was all. 

#

 Adora barely noticed how unbothered she was during her meetings until the investors tying their votes only made her smirk. 

Adora’s speech was well received and Catra’s additional suggestion was excellent to outline the personally negative experiences of learning a new limb. Adora didn’t have time to get sufficient data or photographs to show the full extent so she spoke from personal experience. The investors were interested and even the board seemed to second guess their proposal. It was enough of a ripple to carry them to a satisfying stalemate.  

The investors had been unable to agree, despite the many speakers imploring the room to join their cause and either stay their course or change to military research. The major investors tying up their votes meant the board repeated their vote to break the tie and Adora’s controlling share dominated to break the tie in her favour. Adora took great satisfaction in Primus’ angry face when she so easily squashed his attempts to control her families company. 

The only concerning part of the meeting was that four of seven present board members had voted for the military applications. It unsettled Adora. The ninth board member never came to meetings, and in all five years Adora had run the company she had never met the individual personally. They weren’t needed to break a tied vote unless Adam and Adora disagreed on the best direction for the company. Which had never happened. 

Adora was tasked to present a proper report for the board regarding the issues with prosthetic recovery time and She-ra specifically. She would present it at the next quarterly board meeting that would fall just after her birthday. Thankfully the board agreed to meet in a warmer location, and Brightmoon was central for them all. So for the first time since Adora had been running the company, they would be joined in person in the Greyskull board room.  

Adora couldn’t breath easy until the meetings finished. She didn’t doubt that Primus had something else to attempt to sway her eventually, but Adora felt free to enjoy her trip. She could relax knowing she has spoiled Primus’ plans, at least for now. 

Catra joining them on the trip turned out to be a huge relief for Adora’s nerves. After three days of meetings Finn was cared for and happy. When Adora returned to the cabin after the last meeting she was greeted with smiles and hot food to ease her stress.

#

Adora loved to snowboard, it was something she had done a lot as a younger woman, but she didn’t have many chances in the recent years because of her refusal to let anyone watch Finn who wasn’t family. 

Adora knew she was protective, but it was never more clear than now, watching Catra fussing over Finn like a new parent as she tried to work out how to keep them safe on the slopes. Adora appreciated it. She appreciated a lot about Catra.

Catra turned to Adora when she stepped out of the changing room wearing her high visibility jacket that was covered with bright colours and large angular shapes across the chest. 

“I don’t even need to see the colour of your jacket, but the shapes scream high vis.” Catra said playfully. 

“It helps Finn find me in a crowd if we get separated,” Adora said, speaking from personal experience. Catra nodded her head but glanced away from the jacket. It was hard to tell in the cold air, but Catra looked flushed and fluffy in the chill that had been left by the heavy snowfall over the last few days. 

When they went to the slopes, Adora’s least favourite part of the trip appeared. Adora hated ski lifts. She would much rather walk three kilometres in the snow than to take a ski lift fifteen meters in the air. She wasn’t a big fan of heights in general so she chose to ignore the view and ground herself however she could.  

Adora was an adult though, and she wouldn’t allow her nerves to show. It was just a lot harder now that Finn was bigger, because Catra was fearless when it came to heights and if anything she seemed to enjoy them. So, Finn was excited to be up high and tried to point out landmarks they had seen from the ground.  

Adora was ignoring everything about her as she stared into the middle distance to try to ignore the distance below her. She didn’t notice her white knuckle grip on the safety rail until Catra’s gloved hand laid over her own. 

Finn was sitting in the middle seat between them, but Catra had her arm around them to stop them falling from the lift in their excitement. Catra’s eyes were understanding and none-judgemental. Adora didn’t realise she was holding her breath until she let it out and took a shallow breath of freezing air. 

Adora didn’t know what to do to show Catra she was grateful but Catra didn’t dwell on it. Catra smiled and gave Adora’s hand a little squeeze before she pointed out something for Finn to keep them distracted from Adora’s state. Adora took the opportunity to close her eyes and just listened to Catra and Finn talk excitedly while she willed her body to relax. 

The hand returned to Adora’s arm to squeeze after some time and Adora peaked her eyes open to see the top of the lift approaching. Adora sighed in relief as they dismounted without any problem and she was back on solid ground. 

Finn learned quickly from the classes they took while Adora was in her meetings and they could ski quite well after three days. Catra was also quite good but sometimes she got overzealous with her speed and ended up in the snow. Catra was happy to laugh at herself so Finn thought it was hilarious every time.  

Adora stayed with Finn and Catra, snowboarding slowly and mostly stayed on the gentle slope so she could spend time with Finn and Catra. It wasn’t until later in the day when Finn was tired that Adora went to a steeper incline to test her skills. 

Adora met with Catra and Finn in the resort when she was finished. They were by the communal fireplace sipping hot chocolate and cuddling on the couch when she found them. Other kids and parents had gathered around the area and Catra was talking to a woman who seemed to have a keen interest in her. 

Adora arrived, walking up behind the couch Catra and Finn were on to place a kiss on Finn’s head. Finn trilled happily and reached up for cuddles. The woman that Catra had been speaking to looked at Adora with wide eyes before she excused herself quickly. 

Adora joined Catra on the couch with Finn on her lap and Catra smiled at her.

“Shall we get dinner at the resort restaurant? I don’t think I can be bothered cooking,” Adora said, her muscles a little too fatigue from the day. 

“That sounds like a much better idea than cooking, which one did you have in mind?” Catra asked, adjusting so she was facing Adora, her socked feet on the cushion beside her. 

“The one on the other side of the resort has a better menu,” Adora said and Catra nodded. 

“True, but we would have to take the cable car to get there,” Catra said with a tip of her head. Finn’s big eyes appeared at the mention of their favourite ‘ride’. 

“That’s fine,” Adora said, pretending it wasn’t a terrifying experience to take the cable car every time. She would suck it up. The other restaurant had more options for Magicats and a steak meal Catra had said she wanted to try next time they went. They didn’t have that many days left and Adora didn’t want Catra to miss out. 

“How about we have that tomorrow night, since we are planning to be on that side of the resort anyway. I’d be happy with a simple hot meal tonight,” Catra said and giggled as Finn pouted.

“Noo, but what about the ride?” Finn asked, looking sad. 

“We can ride it tomorrow, aren’t you sleepy from all that time on the slopes?” Catra asked, taking on the task to stop the pouting four year old. Finn pouted for a little longer before grumbling. 

“I’m tired, can we get dinner now?” Finn asked, turning to their mum and Adora smiled. Catra giggled. 

“I could eat now, are you done with the hot coco Finny?” Catra asked, putting her boots on and grabbing the mugs to check. Both mugs were empty and Catra returned them to the counter while Adora helped Finn back into their boots. 

Dinner at the ‘cheaper’ restaurant was delicious, even if they didn’t have to travel far for it. After dinner they returned to the cabin’s warmth and comfort. Finn was much more tired than they would admit to and quickly fell asleep on the couch while watching a movie. Adora decided to stay up to watch the movie with Catra before everyone retired to bed to bed. 

#

The following day the cable car wasn’t getting any easier to handle. Finn had found a tiny partner in crime which left Catra to stand with Adora as she felt sick from the cable car rocking gently in the wind. Catra’s hand came to her shoulder to gently rub circles into her back. 

Adora needed a distracted, but more than that, she needed Catra to talk to her. Adora’s mind was stuck on the idea that the wind would get too rough and the cable car would fall to their deaths before they had any time to stop it. 

“Why don’t you like pink?” Adora asked. She wasn’t sure why her brain was so caught on the information or why now was the time to ask this question. She wanted to know what Catra didn’t like about it and it had been on her mind since she heard the information days ago. 

“Does it matter?” Catra asked, sounding a little defensive, which put Adora even more on edge. She wasn’t trying to overstep, was this a personal question?

“I’m curious, but you don’t have to tell me,” Adora returned quickly and Catra looked at her for a moment before she sighed and her features softened again. 

“I can’t see it properly,” Catra mumbled as she crossed her arms self consciously which took her hand off Adora and she missed it immediately.  

“What do you mean?” Adora asked and Catra sighed again, colour coming to her cheeks. 

“I mean, my left eye doesn’t see colour the same way as my right eye…” Catra said and Adora tipped her head slightly as she considered the information. She was sufficiently distracted by this unexpected information. She looked between Catra’s gold eye and blue before she gave a small nod. 

“In what way?” Adora asked, still confused and Catra bit her lip before she continued. 

“My left eye can’t see red,” Catra said, putting her hand to cover her gold eye and look at Adora with only her blue one. The pupil of her blue eye expanded a little as Adora watched her and she wasn’t sure how to respond so she waited. “The blue one is hyper sensitive to colour and the yellow one” gold Adora mentally corrected “is red colour blind,” Catra concluded as she lowered her hand again to reveal her sunny eye.  Adora continued to look at her eyes like it would tell her the answers she was looking for. 

“What causes that?” Adora asked softly, this felt like a secret, and Adora wanted to treat it as delicately as it deserved. Catra gave Adora a little smile. 

“It’s a genetic abnormality. The doctors said it probably comes from my father, whoever he was,” Catra said with a shrug like that piece of information wasn’t sad and didn’t open a whole other box of questions Adora wasn’t sure she was allowed to ask. Adora let the information settle in her mind.  

“That’s very interesting, and thank you for sharing that with me, but what does that have to do with your dislike of pink?” Adora asked, a small smile creeping onto her face. 

“Oh, right. Well. Because of the difference in my eyes, bright colours can make me feel a sick. When I was little, I hated looking at pink because of that,” Catra said and blushed a little “So now I avoid it,”

“Do darker red’s do the same thing?” Adora asked curiously.

“Deep, rich reds are okay, because the difference between dark colours isn’t as jarring. But anything bright is hard to focus on,” Catra said and Adora nodded. 

“I’ll keep that in mind,” Adora said, mentally adding that to the information she now knew about Catra. She was quite fond of her collection, and it unfortunately made her attraction to Catra harder to ignore. 

“You don’t have to, its not a big deal,” Catra said with a dismissive shrug. 

“I disagree, you deserve to be comfortable and it doesn’t cost me anything to account for your needs,” Adora said firmly and Catra bit her lip before she nodded. 

“Well, thank you,” Catra said, her cheeks pink as she looked away to check on Finn. Adora started to think about the things in her house, wondering if she had anything that was bright pink. Adora wasn’t a big fan of bright colours in general because they were overwhelming to both her and Finn. After a mental check of the penthouse she was content that her home didn’t have anything that could potentially make Catra feel unwell, or unwelcome. 

That was a relief. 

#

Catra had enjoyed her time a the snow a little too much. Adora in vacation mode was possibly her favourite version of her boss. Learning to ski with Finn, eating amazing fancy food and sleeping in the complete silence of nature had completely rejuvenated her. 

When they returned home to the penthouse Catra was happy to be back, and her time away had hardly felt like work at all. She almost felt almost bad taking her scheduled weekend off. 

They returned to Brightmoon on the Friday evening, which meant Catra was spoiled with three first class meals on Friday, two in the air and one at the lounge. The press appeared to lose interest or enthusiasm on their return home so Adora was able to relax on the drive back from the airport. 

Once Catra had unpacked at the penthouse and fell into bed, she relaxed into the familiar scent of the house. It smelt of Adora, Finn and Swifty but more than that it smelt of warmth and comfort and home. She sighed as she let the tension seep from her muscles and she laid boneless on the bed to buried her nose in the blankets. 

Catra wished her bed smelt like Adora, the one night they slept cuddling for warmth together was everything Catra thought it would be. Adora’s embrace was firm and strong but so gentle. She held Catra like she didn’t want to cage her, but gently begged her to stay close. Catra couldn’t think of anything she wanted more than to be wrapped up with Adora. 

Catra had spent the last week yearning to return to Adora’s arms since the moment she left them. She wanted to bury her nose in Adora’s neck again, fill her senses with nothing but her earthy scent and lose herself in the scolding warmth of her body. 

Ugh.

Maybe this was more than just a crush. 

Chapter Text

On Saturday Catra was partaking in her favourite activity - sleeping in - when she was awoken by a little blonde kitten attempting to climb into her bed to cuddle. Catra could hear Adora making breakfast in the kitchen as she sang gently to herself and Catra was a little grateful she wasn’t missing Adora’s singing by being asleep. The soothing sound of Adora’s voice would make it easy to sleep quickly and she would never turn down cuddles with Finn.

Catra wrapped her arms around Finn to snuggle them close as they settled under the blankets. It was only a few seconds before their contented purrs synced and rolled loudly in the confines of the blankets. Finn rarely went back to sleep once they were awake, so Catra was sure they wouldn’t stay long once they got their fill.

Finn left Catra’s door open when they entered the room so it was easy for Adora to find Finn when she went looking. Adora appeared at her door and peaked inside curiously, putting her search to rest immediately.

Catra cracked her blue eye open to look at Adora in all her bright colourful glory. She was wearing a soft purple apron and holding a utensil in one hand that she was using to make wheat and dairy free pancakes for breakfast. Catra could smell them. Catra simply purred louder at the soft look on Adora’s face as she noticed Finn hiding in Catra’s arms.

Adora didn’t say anything but went back to the kitchen to finish her cooking now that she knew where Finn disappeared to. Finn rubbed their little cheek against Catra’s face as they cuddled closer and Catra returned the gesture. They cuddled until Adora came back to tell Finn that breakfast was ready and they wiggled free.

Catra decided to get up and followed them into the kitchen, she was awake hours before she usually would be on a Saturday but she couldn’t find it in herself to care as she sat down to breakfast with the Greys.

The household stayed home all Saturday. Finn asked Adora to practise ballet with them in the afternoon and she was happy to comply. Catra was able to resist joining them in order to watch the cuteness as it unfolded, but it only lasted so long when big blue eyes asked her to join and she had to agree.

Not a bad way to spend a Saturday.

#

The Gala was a big event.

It was one of the biggest events of the year, and brought together major medical and technology companies into one room to present their years achievements to potential new investors who loved to talk about their latest yacht purchases.

An event like this required a lot of preparation, which meant that Adora’s week was incredibly busy in the lead up to Friday night. She couldn’t go to their dance classes and she came home late on more than one occasion.

She went to Dee on Thursday night to have her dress fitted and took it home to prepare for the following day. Finn would be staying with Angella so that Catra could still take her usual Friday night off, and Mermista had texted that she had her suit in hand that same night.

Mermista always joined Adora at her work events. Mermista loved free food and a party full of snobby people. Her favourite pass time was being subtly rude to rich people who were too polite to respond in kind. Adora hated going to these events alone, and Mermista loved dinner and a show, so it worked for them.

Even with Adora being openly gay, these stuffy events often meant old rich men would flirt with her - completely disregarding her “please fuck off” eyes - and she had learnt that having a plus one to deter them was more polite than laughing in their faces.

Adora rehearsed her speech for the event on Thursday night after Finn went to sleep and Adora thought everything was going well.

Too well.

Friday hit like a sledge hammer. Mermista had been out on her ‘friends’ boat Thursday night and apparently it had somehow sunk and Mermista now had a cold from the freezing ocean water. She came into work the following morning looking almost blue and shaking with a fever. She looked like death and Adora sent her home to rest.

Adora cancelled her afternoon of work, not only because she barely understood Mermista’s filing system, but to get ready for the Gala. She was now missing a plus one to keep her company and it filled her with dread to face such an event alone.

#

Catra hadn’t worked all week. Well, that’s what it felt like at least. When Angella came to get Finn just after lunch on Friday, Catra didn’t want them to go. She offered to make Angella tea but they had their own plans and were soon gone.

Catra was alone in the house, with Swifty, and unsure how to spend her time. Scorpia and Perfuma had a date that night so she couldn’t go visit them and her mum was going to bingo with some of her friends. Catra was sure her mum wouldn’t mind her tagging along, but she didn’t want to cramp her style with her ‘empty nest’ friends.

Catra sat tucked into the couch as she read the latest book she had picked from Ms Grey’s collection when the front door opened. She sat up suddenly in her startle as Ms Grey walked down the hall and she noticed Catra.

“Oh, hello,” Adora said. She seemed surprised that Catra was here, alone on a Friday afternoon.

Catra should have plans, but here she was, reading a book and missing Finn. It was strange to see Ms Grey home so early after she had been working late most of the week.

“You’re home early,” Catra voiced her thoughts and Adora’s eyes crinkled in that way they did when she held back a smile.

“Yes, Mermista is sick, so work was a mess. I have to find another plus one for tonight, so I came home,” Adora explained and Catra nodded her head. She had seen Adora bring home her dress the night before and hadn’t really considered that Adora would be going with Mermista. Catra didn’t really like that idea much.

“Poor Mermista, I hope she recovers quickly,” Catra said, because Mermista was still her friend. Ms Grey nodded.

“Me too, no one understands her filing system and I need her,” Adora said and Catra laughed. Adora watched her laugh for a moment before she looked away. Catra felt a little embarrassed by her outburst.

“Wou- uh- What are you doing tonight?” Adora asked, and Catra shrugged, trying to get her weird mood under control.

“Nothing exciting, everyone is busy so I’ll probably just be reading,” Catra said with a shrug, looking down at the book she had picked from the shelves, which wasn’t really gripping her. She would give it a few more chapters, but it was a bit slow.

“Would you like to come to a Gala?” Adora asked and Catra looked up at her with wide eyes.

“W-what?” Catra asked, her cheeks colouring at the invitation. She hadn’t spent a lot of one on one time with Ms Grey and she wasn’t sure she could be trusted for a whole night to keep her eyes to herself. Especially with Ms Grey in that pretty green dress she had brought home.

“Its fine if you don’t want to. It’s a charity event and I’ve already paid for the ticket so it doesn’t matter if-” Catra let her ramble just a little because it was cute, but once she said charity, Catra decided she could handle one on one time for a good cause.

“Yeah, um, sounds like fun,” Adora stopped talking immediately when Catra interrupted but she looked a little relieved that Catra agreed.

“Thank you,” Adora said and her eyes were soft and grateful. Catra wondered what she was really being thanked for. Whatever it was, Catra was so screwed. She would do just about anything for Ms Grey and Adora was always so grateful for the help, like she never expected anyone to lift a finger for her. It was a satisfying feeling to be allowed to help her. To have permission to be someone she could lean on.

It was dangerous how easily Catra could get used to that.

#

Adora had to call Dee to let them know about her change in date and she could hear the smirk in their voice when they confirmed Catra’s measurements. Adora didn’t know them, but she did now.

Dee went to pick up Mermista’s suit and brought it to the penthouse to tailor it to fit Catra.

When Dee arrived, they focused on Adora first, helping her get into her dress and ensure it sat nicely against her body before Dee disappeared to help Catra. Dee spent much more time on Catra’s adjustments while Dee’s assistant did Adora’s makeup for the evening.

Adora’s dress was a floor length gown with a structured bodice and one lace strap to cover the scar on her left shoulder. The bodice stopped at her waist and the dress flowed to the floor with a slit on the right side that stopped at her mid thigh.

Dee had designed both Adora’s dress and the suit that Catra would be wearing, so when Adora asked about removing the slit in her dress she was denied. Dee never listened to her when they had a ‘vision’. It would make it easier to move in the dress at least.

Dee was still working with Catra while their assistant did Adora’s hair. Adora assumed Dee would do Catra’s hair and makeup too, because they were running out of time before they would have to leave.

Adora was ready to go and ordered a limo to take them to the event. The idea of delighting Catra with champagne on the drive only crossed her mind once or twice.

The gala would have plenty of press and photo opportunities, so Adora wanted to make an entrance. Adora’s stomach dropped at the reminder of the press and second guessed her choice to take Catra with her. Mermista was used to the press and was more than happy to backtalk when needed, but the paparazzi were a new experience for Catra, would she be okay?

Adora worried about if she should take Catra or not right up until she saw Catra in her suit. Catra was wearing a gold yellow two piece suit with cut outs on either side of her waist -that showed the delicate lines of her abs - and a green under shirt that matched the colour of Adora’s dress. Catra was wearing boots designed for Magicats and her hair had been tamed into a straight style. She looked beautiful but Adora wished Dee had left Catra’s hair curly.

Catra was blushing and Adora realised she had been staring for far too long if Dee’s wicked smile was any indication. Nothing that came to Adora’s mind was appropriate to say to Catra in this moment so she took a breath and focused.

“Ready to go?” Adora asked, trying to focus on the next step in the night. She would talk to Catra about the press in the car.

“Ready,” Catra agreed with a smile and they were off.

#

Catra felt like she was in a dream. Nothing about this night felt like it was real. Catra was like Cinderella, being whisked away to meet a princess, all dolled up and shiny, but still the same poor woman underneath it all.

The limo was extravagant and Catra decided it was her job, on their short trip, to explore every button and nook to see everything it had to offer. Adora pulled out a drink from the mini fridge and Catra watched in awe when she opened the secret panel Catra hadn’t found yet.

Adora was careful when handing Catra her drink to avoid touching. Which she appreciated. Catra wasn’t sure she could handle Adora looking like that and touching her.

Ms Grey looked like a princess and Catra had to stop herself from looking at her whenever she wasn’t looking at Catra. It was embarrassing how distracting she found Adora while she was wearing this dress. Despite Adora’s previous discomfort wearing a skirt, she seemed fine wearing a tailored dress that didn’t restrict her. She was beautiful.

Catra had been only slightly disappointed that Adora didn’t comment on her outfit. She knew she didn’t fill out the suit the way Mermista would, that became obvious with all the adjustments Dee had to make to fit her slender frame. Catra was lean but she thought the cut still suited her and showed off the toned lines of abs pleasantly.

Maybe it wasn’t appropriate for them to comment on the others appearance. Adora must know she looked ethereal, she probably heard that all the time. Catra would keep a lid on her attraction for one night. She had to.

“The press aren’t allowed inside the venue, so we just need to get past the carpet and they wont bother us again,” Adora said gently. “We will only stop for a few photos,” Adora reassured and checked her phone again. Catra wasn’t sure what she was checking for, but it seemed like important updates.

Catra nodded and sipped her drink, it was delicious. She was pretty sure it was real champagne instead of sparkling wine and it was like drinking smooth honey. She felt an embarrassing purr bubble up in her throat and Adora lifted her head to look at Catra. She was smiling and Catra felt her face warm under her gaze. She wanted to look away but it felt impossible.

“The wine is good,” Catra said softly and Adora smiled a little bigger as her eyes softened.

“I’m glad you like it, champagne isn’t for everyone,” Adora said and Catra snorted, completely catching herself off guard and her face burned.

“I don’t know the next time I’ll get to drink real Champagne, so I’m not passing it up,” Catra said, taking another sip to prove her point. Adora chuckled and Catra felt her fur stand on end. Catra was painfully aware of Adora right now. Every movement and every sound held 110% of her attention.

“I’m sure you will get more chances before the year is over,” Adora said and Catra felt her breath catch in her throat at the reminder that one day, very soon, she would be gone from their lives. She wondered if she would ever see them again after her contract ended. Would she be allowed to visit Finn? Would she ever see Ms Grey again? It filled Catra’s chest with a deep yearning and she hoped Ms Grey would allow her to see them when this was all over.

“We are almost there,” Adora said as she glanced out the window and Catra nodded her head, she finished her drink but Ms Grey didn’t drink hers, just pouring most of it into a liquid waste bin. Catra hadn’t seen her take more then a couple of sips.

Catra readied herself for the flashing lights as the car pulled to a stop and the door opened.

Catra’s door was opened, she got to her feet and straightened her jacket as she glanced around. The flashing of camera’s had already started, even though Catra was a nobody.

Catra turned and offered her hand to Adora, who looked surprised by the gesture but took her hand. Catra smiled as she helped Adora to her feet, a generous amount of smooth pale leg slipping from the slit in her dress. Catra’s mouth felt dry suddenly and as soon as Ms Grey was in sight the flashing camera’s tripled, she was recognised.

Adora released Catra’s hand once she was standing so she could arrange her dress to lay nicely but once she looked up again Catra offered her arm which Adora took.

They walked down the carpet as the limo pulled away and the cameras continued until the end of the carpet where they got into position for a few proper photos. Adora allowed maybe thirty seconds of photographs, showing off her dress as she posed for the pictures. Catra wasn’t sure what to do but she did her best to look nice for the photos.

Once they were inside Adora let out a soft sigh of relief before the next challenge began.

Adora, no, Ms Grey, was in her element, charming, knowledgeable and quick witted as she spoke to the many people who approached her to pick her brain. Catra watched her talking and was honestly just in awe.

#

Adora was worried that Catra was bored at the start of the night. Talking about work wasn’t very riveting for those not in the industry and Adora knew it could be dry.

Every time Adora checked on Catra she seemed far from bored thought, even going so far as to reassure Adora of the fact. They didn’t get a chance to get drinks or food when they arrived, but after some time they managed to secure some refreshments of champagne and hors d'oeuvres.

Adora enjoyed watching Catra taste the small crackers with salmon and fish eggs. They made her eyes grow big and a soft purr rumble to life, which could barely heard over the music. Adora was listening for it though, so it stood out against the sound of the live piano.

Adora hadn’t thought to give Catra any instructions on how to act at the Gala but she was being a perfect date. She wasn’t ignoring the people Adora was talking to and when they spoke to her she was charming and showed interest in their work. They clearly took her as a breath of fresh air.

Adora didn’t realise that her expectations of a good date were so low. Before Mermista, Adora would have been happy if anyone showed an interest in something that mattered to her. Catra was blowing that expectation out of the water, actively engaging in conversations like they were the most interesting thing in the world.

After some conversations, they were able to enjoy the room. Catra’s hand was tucked into Adora’s bent arm and Adora had to admit that she was enjoying having Catra on her arm a little too much.

Adora sipped at her drink carefully because she didn’t want to have too much and loosen her tongue. She listened to the conversation happening around them and the delicate sound of the piano as they promenaded around the room. They enjoyed a brief reprieve and Adora watched the way Catra’s ears perked up when a server walked past with hors d'oeuvres she hadn’t tried yet.

Adora’s enjoyment of the moment was unfortunately interrupted by someone coming to get her for the sound check for her speech. She didn’t want to leave Catra alone but Catra took her half empty glass without complaint and wished her luck.

Five years ago Adora would be a nervous wreck to speak to so many people, but she had plenty of experience with it now. She had to learn quickly when she first took over the company. At the time she knew how to dance to thousands of people easily because her body could say everything she needed. But she had to learn quickly how to speak in a way that was understandable and clear to the people around her and that had been a real challenge.

Adora stepped onto the stage and easily found Catra sitting in the front row. Catra smiled at her and Adora felt what little nerves she had completely evaporate. She turned her eyes to the mass of people watching her and spoke with confidence as she explained Greyskull’s future.

#

Adora really knew how to command the stage, even in a pretty green dress and done up like a princess she had a powerful presence in the room. Catra could hear every whisper someone made during the speeches before Adora’s but everyone was dead silent now.

Catra’s heart raced when Adora found her in the crowd and offered her a smile before she started. Catra was fascinated by Greyskull. The work they did was something else and they had such large goals for the future.

Catra had no doubt that Ms Grey could achieve those goals but she worried for her. Adora needed more time to herself and with Finn, not less. Catra hoped that this future included more delegation and vacation time.

Once the speeches concluded Catra got to her feet and moved to the side of the stage to meet Adora as she came down the stairs. Adora smiled at Catra with the soft eyes that made Catra’s heart race.

“Good speech,” Catra offered lamely, unable to think of something else to say but it made Adora roll her eyes and smile wider, so it was worth it. Catra offered Adora her drink.

“Thanks…” Adora said as she took the glass and she looked like she might say more, but her words stopped abruptly as she looked into a crowd of people nearby. Her smile dropped immediately and her eyes turned cold as her face tightened.

“What is it?” Catra asked, looking in the direction Adora was looking and seeing a magicat woman with a beautiful steely grey coat. Her fur was longer than Catra’s and it rounded out her face pleasantly. She looked gorgeous in her short black sequenced dress and impossibly high heels. It was nice to see another magicat around town but it didn’t explain Adora’s strange reaction. Catra looked at the other people near the woman but none were looking in their direction, unlike the magicat woman.

“Nothing, we should do something,” Adora said, turning her back to the woman and facing Catra. Catra looked up at her with confusion but nodded her head.

“Oh, sure, what do you want to do?” Catra asked curiously. Adora sounded almost panicked and it set Catra’s nerves on edge to hear it. They had been walking around mostly and Catra wasn’t sure what else there was on offer. This was her first Gala, so she wasn’t sure what to suggest. Was dancing an option or was this party too fancy?

“Anything, I don’t mind, I just-” Adora started but was interrupted.

“Adora, what a pleasant surprise,” The magicat woman had come closer now and she was speaking. Her voice was soft and feminine, ringing like a bell, but it seemed a little too high pitched to be her natural tone.

Adora closed her eyes at the sound of the Magicats voice. She looked in pain for just a moment before she opened her eyes and her face became a neutral mask Catra had come to associated with Ms Grey.

Adora turned towards the woman and Catra followed her gaze. She wasn’t sure what was happening, but she felt like she had disappointed Adora somehow and that didn’t make her feel good.

“Melody, good to see you,” Adora said in a completely monotone voice that did not suggest she was happy to see her at all.

Wait, Melody, Melody?! Oh no.

Catra had done worse than disappoint Adora with her inaction, she had trapped her.

Catra remembered Melody, how could she ever forget Melody. We hated her. Catra had never disliked someone she hadn’t met as much as she disliked Melody.

Catra wanted to remind Adora she was here to support her, so like she had done many times that night, she looped her arm through Adora’s and gave her a reassuring squeeze.

Adora didn’t react to it but Melody’s cold expression suddenly moved to Catra to acknowledged her existence.

“Who’s your friend?” Melody asked, putting her nose up in distaste as she looked at Catra. Catra smiled despite her rudeness and offered her hand to shake. Her mother taught her better than to be impolite on a first impression.

“Catra, its nice to meet you,” Catra lied. Even if half what Catra knew of Melody was true, Catra could have happily spent her life never meeting her.

Melody looked at Catra’s outstretched hand and the hand she had on Adora’s bicep before she offered her right hand like she expected Catra to kiss it. Such a lady.

Catra was undeterred by her expectation as she shook her floppy fish hand firmly and took some satisfaction when Melody yanked her hand back in horror.

Catra tried to hide her smirk but Melody clearly saw it if her glare was any confirmation. Her eyes went back to Adora, and Catra glanced up at the blonde. She looked stone faced but her eyes were unfocused like she wasn’t even here. This was worse that Catra thought.

“Have you heard the great news,” Melody said, showing her left hand with an absolutely monstrous rock on it to Adora. The ridiculously sized diamond was too large to wear while doing any type of work and she seemed proud of its impracticality.

“Congratulations,” Adora said, her voice sounding strained as her face twitched like she was trying to not react.

“Yeah, and he really loves me, so he didn’t ask for a prenup.” Melody said and Adora’s face pinched at the accusation. That comment was meant to hurt and seeing it get any reaction out of Ms Grey was enough to snap Catra out of her silence.

Catra was protective and she knew Adora didn’t need her protection, but she deserved to feel it none the less.

If Catra had learnt anything about Adora in her time working for her its that Adora loved with all her heart. She loved Finn, she loved her family, she loved her friends, and despite how much Melody hurt Adora, there was still traces of the magnitude of that love etched into her skin.

“Well he can’t be too bright then,” Catra retorted, deciding that this beautiful woman needed a reality check.

“Oh I see, you got yourself a cheap imitation of me. What? Trying to make me jealous?” Melody said, directing her attention back to Adora, trying to ignore Catra but she wasn’t going to allow that.

“It's an upgrade actually,” Catra snapped and Melody glared at her, infuriated by the interruption.

“Well, I doubt Adora loves you enough to not get a prenup. The Grey-Skull’s are obsessed with their wealth,” Melody said, her voice dripping with venom. Catra couldn’t see how a prenup could be a bad thing, Adora needed to protect her company and her assets. If Melody cared at all about Finn, surely Melody knew Adora’s assets were for them.

“Even if she did want a prenup, I would sign it! Because I don’t need her money. I’m not a gold digger.” Catra said, trying to keep her voice at a normal volume. Melody looked red in the face as she stomped her foot like a petulant toddler.

“I am not a gold digger!” Melody screeched, attracting attention to her tantrum.

“Then you must be an idiot, like your fiance-” Catra said, her claws pricking gently against Adora’s arm as she lost a little control to her anger.

“How dare you!” Melody squawked.

“-that's the only way you can possibly think Adora isn’t worth ten times her companies wealth,” Catra was loosing the battle with her temper, not realising the embarrassing truths she was spouting for anyone to hear.

“I will not be spoken to this way!” Melody huffed and Catra put her arm around Adora’s waist, so she could lead her away from the situation. Catra could see Adora’s surprised look in the corner of her eye but Catra couldn’t drag her eyes away from Melody’s angry face.

“Great, please excuse us,” Catra said, leading Adora away. She seemed shocked and offered no resistance to being removed from her insufferable ex.

As soon as they were somewhere more secluded Catra paused to look carefully at Adora’s flushed face. She didn’t seem upset which Catra took as a good start, but she couldn’t read the expression in her eyes. She was definitely embarrassed.

“Sorry. I think I hate her more now that I’ve met her,” Catra said playfully as she tried to lighten the situation like she hadn’t just embarrassed Adora at a charity function. Adora smiled softly at her joke before she gently touched Catra’s hand. Catra glanced down at their laced fingers as butterflies filled her stomach.

“Thank you. For standing up for me, and for what you said,” Adora said as her cheeks got redder. Adora looked so petty under the twinkling lights with soft blue eyes and red cheeks. If Catra had a list of her favourite expression on Adora’s face she knew this one would be near the top.

“I know you don’t need me to stand up for you, but I couldn’t let her talk to you like that,” Catra said, gently squeezing Adora’s fingers and getting a squeeze back.

“I usually let her rant until she gets frustrated and she leaves me alone,” Adora said, looking a little ashamed of her choice of coping.

“She always does this? Stars, you have the patience of a saint,” Catra said and Adora smiled her littlest smile.

“She usually gets more annoyed when I don’t react than when I do. I try to be impartial,” Adora said, shrugging one shoulder as she bit her lip.

“I hope you don’t believe a word she says. Asking for a prenup doesn’t mean you didn’t care about her,” Catra said seriously and Adora sighed.

“Angella told me to get one when Dad passed, I didn’t want to but Angella obviously saw something I didn’t…” Adora said, looking at the floor for a moment before she looked back into Catra’s eyes. Catra wanted to wrap her in a hug and sooth away all the pain that Melody had left behind, but she knew it was inappropriate.

“Angella is pretty cluey like that,” Catra agreed as she held Adora’s gaze. Catra felt almost hypnotises by Adora’s eyes, unable to look away.

“She is, she saved me from a lot more heartache. I never want Melody to meet Finn,” Adora said in a soft tone and Catra smiled. Catra was glad Finn never had a chance to meet Melody either, Finn was an angel with a devil for a mother, they deserved better.

“She doesn’t deserve to know Finn. She sucks,” Catra said and Adora laughed airily.

“Yeah,” Adora agreed.

“Come on Princess, let's get your mind off that unpleasant experience. We should dance,” Catra said, squeezing Adora’s fingers again and only receiving a blush this time.

“I can’t dance,” Adora said, like it was obvious, and she wasn’t a professional dancer.

“Adora, I’ve literally seen you dance,” Catra reminded her, Adora had waltzed with Finn in the living room, that totally counted.

“That's ballet, I can’t dance to this music,” Adora said shyly and Catra nodded her head. Adora was correct, ballet and Waltzing would not suit this music at all.

“Its fine, I’ll teach you,” Catra offered with a bright smile that seemed to give Ms Grey pause.

“Isn’t it hard?” Adora asked, and Catra knew she was convincing her.

“No, it's super easy, come on,” Catra said, pulling Adora’s hand to make her follow. Adora looked embarrassed but she let Catra lead her to the dance floor. The music was poppy and most people were dancing respectful freestyle.

Catra turned to Adora and took her other hand. Adora was already blushing as Catra moved closer and moved their joined hands to the beat. Adora watched Catra with utmost focus as Catra showed her the dance, moving her feet when Catra did and eventually Catra released her hands so she could move on her own.

Adora rocked, moving her feet and hips as she moved her hands to the beat. It wasn’t meant to be impressive but it was special to watch Adora relax and just feel the music. She seemed genuinely content as she mimicked Catra’s movements and Catra grinned brightly as a little contented smile came to Adora’s face. When Adora was feeling confident she closed her eyes and just moved to the music.

Stars. She’s beautiful.

Catra knew she was staring again, but Adora’s eyes were closed so she felt like she could. Adora moved her body in fluid motions, looking every bit a dancer as she moved with the music.

Catra didn’t notice herself being pulled into Adora’s orbit until Adora’s hand bumped into Catra’s shoulder and her eyes opened. She looked embarrassed and Catra was definitely too close but she didn’t move away and Adora didn’t either.

After a moment's pause they continued to dance in their new proximity, moving around each other as they moved to the music. Their eyes were locked as they moved like neither one of them could look away.

Adora bit her lip as she rocked closer to Catra and Catra felt her own cheeks flush as she leaned in. She looked up at Adora before she rocked away again. Catra mimicked her move and rocked close to her in the same way Adora did. Adora was a fast learner and was picking things up from the other people around them as she tried different moves.

Catra was so distracted by the way Adora was moving and watching her eyes she didn’t notice as she stepped wrong on her heel and stumbled.

Adora grabbed her by the waist and they were flush against each other and they both looked shocked. Catra held her breath waiting for Adora to move away but she didn’t and Catra didn’t either. It took almost a full minute of recovery but they both started to sway to the music again. It was a thinly veiled excuse to stay pressed together and Catra could feel her cheeks on fire. Adora’s face was flushed with embarrassment but her eyes were soft and focused.

“Do you want to get some air?” Adora asked after the silence stretched on and Catra nodded her head.

Catra followed Adora off the dance floor and out to a secluded balcony she hadn’t noticed. The night was a little chilly but it was nice after being on the dance floor. Adora walked to the edge of the balcony and looked out to the horizon of the city.

Catra came up beside her to look down at the city to admire the lights.

“Thank you for coming with me,” Adora said and Catra looked over at Adora who was already watching her. Catra smiled.

“I’ve had a lot of fun, thank you for inviting me,” Catra said honestly.

“I’m sorry about Melody,” Adora said, making an awkward face as she looked back at the city.

“I’m not. Highlight of my night,” Catra said and Adora snorted cutely before she covered her mouth and bumped her shoulder playfully against Catra.

“I’ll pay you for tonight,” Adora said a little more seriously and Catra felt her stomach drop a little at the suggestion. Catra was here by choice, having a nice night and she didn’t want Adora to feel like she had to pay her.

“You don't have to, it doesn’t feel like work,” Catra reassured her calmly. She knew she wouldn’t be able to stop Adora if she got it in her head to pay her, but she hoped she could convince her not to.

“Then how will I repay you?” Adora asked and Catra’s heart thumped painfully at the suggestion that Adora needed to pay her to spend time with her. Catra would do it for free, any day of the week. Catra needed money for her Masters, but if she didn’t, she would do her job for free in a heartbeat.

“You don’t have to repay me Princess, we’re friends…right?” Catra said, her mouth getting ahead of her but Adora smiled so brightly at the admittance that she couldn’t bring herself to be embarrassed. They could be friends, it was allowed.

“We are, but I don’t want to take advantage of your kindness, or your free time,” Adora said and Catra smiled.

“How about this? If you make me do something I don’t want to do, then you can pay me for it,” Catra offered and Adora bit her lip.

“How will I know when to pay you?” Adora asked, sounding almost playful.

“Oh, believe me, I will be very vocal about it,” Catra said and watched colour bloom on Adora’s face before she turned so Catra couldn’t see.

“I’ll keep that in mind,” Adora said softly and Catra nodded her head before she looked back to the city. She loved high places, there was something so fun about looking down on things that look so big when you experience them. It put things in perspective.

Adora shivered and crossed her arms as they stood quietly and Catra bumped her shoulder against Adora’s.

“Ready to go inside?” Catra asked and Adora nodded.

“Yeah, I think I need another drink and maybe something to eat,”

“Sounds like a great idea, let's go,” Catra said, offering her bent arm for Adora to take. She looped her arm with her and they reentered the party together.

#

When they entered the Gala, dinner was being served and everyone took their assigned seat at their table. Adora pulled Catra’s chair out for her and Catra blushed embarrassingly bright at the action.

Adora seemed satisfied by the reaction and took her own seat without commenting. They were served drinks with dinner and then entrees. When Catra’s food was placed before her, Adora was the first to notice something wrong.

“You can’t eat that, they must not have gotten the adjustments for your order. I’ll talk to them,” Adora said moving to stand when Catra put her hand on her arm to stop her.

“Its okay, I can pick the lobster out,” Catra assured and Adora looked dissatisfied.

“You can have my chicken instead, I don’t mind what I eat,” Adora offered hopefully and Catra smiled at the sweet offer.

“You really don’t have to,” Catra meant it. She was happy to go with the flow, if she was still hungry later she could always make something when they got home.

“Please, I insist. I want you to enjoy the food,” Adora said and offered her plate to Catra. Catra relented and swapped her plate with Ms Grey’s. She tucked into her new entree of bacon wrapped chicken pieces with a strawberry Merlot glaze. Catra could feel herself purring as she ate the food and tried to quell her enthusiasm for the juicy salty chicken with a sweet glaze.

This was possibly the best chicken she had ever eaten. Catra could feel herself blushing when she looked back at Ms Grey to see her watching her enjoy her meal.

“Good?” Adora asked with a small smile and Catra nodded.

“I wish I could eat the lobster but this is possibly the best chicken I’ve ever had,” Catra said dramatically.

“We can make you lobster macaroni at home, that way it wont make you sick,” Adora said casually like it wasn’t such a nice thing to offer.

“I’d like that,” Catra agreed. Mermista had the good sense to request steak for her main meal and Catra was delighted to enjoy the barbecue glazed strip loin steak with roast vegetables. Adora got roast duck with apple cider sauce and vegetables. It smelt amazing but Catra was enjoying her main far too much to be jealous of hers.

Catra was trying to limit her reactions to non verbal ones so she didn’t embarrass Ms Grey or scandalise the other people at their table but Catra couldn’t help but trill when the red meat touched her tongue.

Catra was embarrassed but Adora didn’t react the same, only seeming delighted by Catra’s enjoyment of the fine food.

Dessert was another one that Catra and Mermista didn’t see eye to eye on. Catra poked at the fancy ice-cream slowly. She definitely didn’t want to have stomach cramps from eating lactose after having such a nice meal. Adora’s dessert was a creme brulee and she looked almost guilty that she couldn’t give it to Catra. Unfortunately it also had too much cream in it for her to stomach.

“It’s okay, enjoy your desert, I ate plenty of hors d'oeuvres to keep me going,” Catra said playfully but it seemed to help as Adora ate her dessert. Catra sipped her drink until the table was cleared and everyone got up to return to the social aspect of the evening. Catra followed Adora when she stood and someone immediately stepped up to speak to her.

“Good to see you Grey,” The tall, pale man said, offering his hand and Adora shook it.

“Good to see you too, Primus,” Adora said and turned to Catra to make the introduction like she had many times that night. “Catra, this is Hank Primus, he is one of the board members for Greyskull and he runs the Law firm Primus and Primus,” Adora offered to Catra and she reached out to shake his hand politely. “Primus, this is Catra D’riluith,”

“It’s lovely to make your acquaintance Miss D’riluith, I’ve heard a lot about your work,” Primus said and Catra blinked at him with confusion.

“You have?” Catra asked, perplexed. Primus smiled but there was no warmth to it, it was almost like threat. Catra couldn’t stop herself from taking Adora’s hand to calm herself, and Adora squeezed her fingers reassuringly.

“Of course, my firm is always looking for promising, up and coming lawyers,” Primus said with his predatory smile. Catra felt alarm bells run down her spine as she smiled politely. “Have you started your masters yet?”

“I’m starting next year,”Catra said carefully and noticed the way Primus glanced at her hand still in Adora’s.

“Have you decided on your thesis?” He asked, curiously.

“I have,” Catra said and Primus’ had a small frown on his brow.

“Have you considered medical?” Primus pitched and Catra shook her head firmly.

“I’m afraid not, I’m set on my thesis,” Catra said and he looked dissatisfied before his face smoothed out to a calm indifference.

“That’s a shame, you could do so much more with your ski-”

“There you are darling,” Melody’s purring voice appeared and she stepped up to Primus to press a kiss to his cheek like she didn’t notice who he was talking to.

“This is your fiancee?” Adora asked, sounding confused as she spoke to Melody directly. Catra was immediately on edge to defend Adora again if Melody opened her big mouth.

“That’s right, we are celebrating our anniversary next week. Seven wonderful years,” Melody said, looking at Primus affectionately as she leaned into his side. He put his arm around her with a smile but Melodies eyes were already back on Adora.

“Seven…?” Adora said in a sad whisper and Catra looked at her, her eyes were already glossy as her stoic expression crumbled.

Why does she look like she is going to cry? Why does the years matter? Wait…Finn isn’t even five yet.

Oh my god…

“Please excuse me,” Adora said, turning and walking quickly towards the ladies room. Catra glanced back at Melody, who had a pleased smile on her face but Primus didn’t seem to care at all about the strange interaction.

“You know what Melody, I thought you were stupid, but really you are just cruel,” Catra said bluntly and Melody huffed.

“Well, you clearly don’t know me at all,” Melody defended but Catra didn’t respond and followed after Adora.

#

Adora heard the door to the bathroom open and close. She was trying to keep quiet in the stall, keeping her sniffling to a minimum as she tried to prevent total destruction of her makeup.

Adora heard the soft clicking of heels on the tiles before a gentle knock came on her door.

“Adora, you okay?” Catra asked but Adora didn’t respond except a small sniffle she couldn’t keep in. “Can you let me in so we can talk about what just happened?” Catra asked. Adora wanted to be left alone, but Catra’s gentle tone was hard to say no to. She reached forward after some consideration unlocked the door.

Catra let herself into the stall and closed the door again. Adora was embarrassed to be crying about Melody. She didn’t care about Melody anymore, but it hurt to think that she had been betrayed back when she had been giving her everything to Melody and it still wasn’t enough. Seven fucking years, and Adora had no idea.

Adora was sitting on the lid of the toilet seat and dabbing her face with toilet paper to try to save her makeup. She might be falling apart right now, but she had to pick herself up and go back out there. She didn’t have a choice.

“Hey,” Catra said, moving closer to crouch in front of Adora, “Are you okay?” Adora’s mind was immediately on the dirty floor. Adora wanted Catra to keep her suit and if she leaned in something gross that might not come out then Catra would never let Adora buy her another one. She couldn’t have that.

“Oh stars, don’t kneel on the floor, what if its filthy?” Adora said, pulling Catra up and into her lap. She might not have thought this through. Catra came without a fight, looking stunned as Adora positioned her to sit across her thighs.

Adora wrapped one arm around Catra’s bare waist and the other landed on her leg to stop her slipping down her lap. Adora was feeling a little light headed at all the touching suddenly and she blushed brightly at her own actions.

Adora looked up at Catra with embarrassment. “Sorry… is this okay?” Adora asked and Catra nodded before she seemed to break from her freeze and wrapped her arms around Adora’s shoulders.

“Yeah, are you okay?” Catra asked and Adora let out a shaky breath, relieved that she didn’t overstep in her panic.

“I can’t believe that she would…” Adora said and a small strangled sob came from her mouth as she tried to hide her face against Catra’s shoulder. Catra rubbed her back gently.

“Melody is the worst,” Catra said firmly, and Adora gave a watery laugh.

“She wasn’t always like that. I…I don’t understand what I did to make her hate me so much,” Adora said in a sad whisper, Melody used to be so sweet and kind. Adora must have done something horrible to make her change so much.

“You didn’t do anything,” Catra said with conviction as she ran her hand up and down Adora’s upper back. It was soothing and Adora forced herself to breath again.

“I must have, she used to be so different,” Adora said, her old wounds opened so easily like they had never healed at all. Melody had ripped open a whole new wound this time, a type of betrayal Adora didn’t know if she could recover from.

“What if she was hiding who she was and you didn’t see it?” Catra asked, gently trying to stroke her hand over Adora’s shoulder without disturbing her hair. Adora felt her stomach drop at the suggestion that she might not have been giving Melody enough attention. Melody always said that, that she wasn’t doing enough or being attentive enough. She tried, but Melody always wanted more.

“I should have paid more attention to her…maybe she was right,” Adora said, the emotion welling up in her eyes. She was so lost and she was clearly unlovable.

“No. Melody is a liar,” Catra snapped, cupping Adora’s face in her hands and she captured her watery gaze. “She lied about everything to get what she wanted and she lied about you. She never really saw you, because if she did, she would have never let you go,” Catra said passionately. Adora’s eyes widened as she looked into her beautiful gold and sapphire eyes. She was speechless for a long moment. She could feel the warmth filling her chest and covering the wounds on her heart. Things felt a little less dire.

“…You really believe that?” Adora asked in a small voice as she watched Catra’s eyes like nothing else in the world existed.

“Yeah, I do…” Catra said and Adora closed her eyes for a moment, and they were clearer when they opened again. Melody was a liar, everyone told her that after she left. She was manipulative and cruel and Adora almost fell for her trap all over again.

“Thank you,” Adora whispered, warm and grateful. Catra smiled at her, releasing her face with a soft stroke of her thumbs over Adora’s cheekbones.

“Want to get out of here?” Catra asked, Adora sighed and nodded. It was early, but the main event was over, it was just the social aspect left now.

“Please,” Adora said and that was apparently all Catra needed. She helped Adora up and they spent some time tidying up Adora’s makeup before they left the ladies room.

Catra used her excellent hearing to sneak them out of the event without being stopped but when they got to the door they couldn’t work out a way around the paparazzi.

“How will we get past them?” Adora asked in a whisper like they were planning a stake out. No doubt they would love a scoop of anyone leaving the Gala early. Catra looked down at Adora’s shoes and grinned.

“Depends, do you think you can run in those shoes?” Catra asked playfully and Adora nodded seriously.

“Definitely,” she said and Catra looked surprised she didn’t object to whatever she was planning.

“Are you sure you’re ready to be in the papers for leaving early with a ruffian?” Catra joked and Adora frowned at her.

“You’re not a troublemaker, you’re my date,” Adora said firmly and Catra tried to hide her blush with a smirk.

“I can be both,” Catra said and Adora smiled as her heart did a weird little pitter-patter at her words.

“Lets do this, its cold out here,” Adora said and Catra grabbed her hand, lacing their fingers together like they had done many times that night.

“Ready?” Catra asked.

“Ready,” Adora agreed and they both ran.

They rushed past the paparazzi but it didn’t stop them snapping photos of the couple fleeing the party. Catra laughed and Adora joined her in giddy delight.

Their limo pulled up and Catra opened the door for Adora. Adora got inside a little ungracefully. Catra jumped in behind her and the limo pulled away from the curb. It took them a few moments to settle their giggles and relax into the safety of the warm car.

Catra took off her jacket when she noticed Adora still shaking from the cold and offered it to Adora to help warm her up. Adora held it against her chest as she relaxed into the seats and enjoyed the smell of Catra’s perfume.

“The papers are going to have a field day with those photos,” Adora said and Catra looked at her curiously. She looked thoughtful, but unconcerned.

“Are you worried about that?” Catra asked as she leaned one arm along the back of the seats and rested her ankle over one knee so she could turn to look at Adora more directly.

“Let them talk. They never get it right anyway,” Adora said with a little grin as she looked at Catra again.

The papers would recount that according to guests, Adora Grey had been flaunting her new wife around the room to all the investors, letting her lay on the charm and convince several large names to join Greyskull in support.

Adora Grey was also seen starting a loud argument with one of Greyskull’s very own board members and her ex-fiancee who is known to be a kind magicat woman from a very prestigious family.

After said argument Adora Grey disappeared into the women rest room for an extended period of time with her partner before leaving flushed and quitting the event at the earliest appropriate time.

This was an unusual act of rebellion for Ms Grey, who is usually know for her level headed thinking and advanced business strategy. Is Adora Grey’s new wife causing cracks in the perfect face of Greyskull’s future?

Chapter Text

The penthouse was warm but quiet without Finn. It felt strange to be there alone with Adora.

Catra looked at Adora as she held out Catra’s jacket to her. Adora looked drained from the night’s events and seemed pale even though her cheeks were pink. It had been a long night. Adora wasn’t looking at Catra directly, in fact Adora hadn’t looked at her since Catra took her jacket off. 

Catra’s top didn’t cover a lot and maybe it was too much skin. Catraself consciously held her jacket to her chest so she wouldn’t make Ms. Grey uncomfortable. 

“Thank you, for tonight” Adora said, glancing at Catra’s face and her eyes locked with her own. Catra swallowed and nodded her head a little.

“Yeah, no worries. Thanks for taking me,” Catra said a little awkwardly and Adora’s eyes crinkled as she smiled. Catra’s heart was racing but she couldn’t look away. All she could think about was being closer. 

Catra broke eye contact to try to calm her heart, glancing over at the sleeping Swifty on his bed. Adora cleared her throat and Catra heard her feet shuffling. 

“I’m going to go to bed,” Adora said, her voice soft. 

“Me too,” Catra agreed and they walked down the hall together before they stopped at Catra’s door. Catra was not keeping good hold of her attraction for Ms Grey. Her heart continued to race like her crush was walking her to the door at the end of a date. The difference was that Adora wasn’t about to kiss her. 

“Goodnight,” Adora said, offering a small but tired smile and Catra smiled softly back. 

“Goodnight, Adora,” Catra said and Adora’s eyes flitted over Catra’s face. Catra wasn’t sure what she was looking for, but after a moment Adora nodded and departed to her room. 

Catra didn’t notice she had held breath until Adora closed her door. She was feeling a little light headed as she released the air from her lungs and went into her room.   

Catra sat on her bed and looked at herself in the mirror across the room. The suit was beautiful, she looked beautiful. The only problem was that she didn’t look like herself at all. Catra didn’t mind the clothing, but she hated what Dee had done to her hair, especially after she met Melody and realised she had perfectly straight dark hair. They had matched. 

Catra wanted her curls back, to remind herself that she was nothing like Adora’s ex. Melody and her couldn’t be more different even if they tried. She never wanted to be compared to that woman in any way. More importantly, Catra didn’t want to be seen as the same in Adora’s eyes. 

Catra huffed and pulled her clothes off. She made an effort to put the garments on a hanger before she wrapped herself in her bathrobe and went to shower. 

The hot water was soothing as it washed away the makeup around her eyes and the products from her hair. She lathered her curls with shampoo before gently massaging them with conditioner. She tried to keep thoughts of Adora from her mind as she washed her body, but the rising blush on her face was hard to blame on the hot water. 

The words Catra said to Adora rang  in her head. She had told her boss, to her face, that she was desirable. 

“She never really saw you, because if she did, she would have never let you go.”

Catra had been so focused on reassuring Adora and to not let her believe Melody’s lies that she blurted out exactly how she was feeling without any filter. 

Adora was…everything. She was smart, kind, thoughtful and beautiful. She deserved better than what Melody gave her. Adora was surprised when someone showed her even an ounce of kindness, and that was learned from years of being neglected. Catra wanted Adora to learn to not only accept kindness but embrace it from others. She deserved that. 

Catra turned off the shower and grabbed a towel. She ran the soft fabric over her body before gently drying her hair to maintain her curls. She blushed again as she remembered the feeling of being in Adora’s lap and shook her head to try to keep the memories at bay. 

“Stop it,” she scolded herself, “you’re being silly,” she huffed. Adora was a good woman, but there was an obvious problem between them. Adora could have any woman she wanted, so she would never choose her employee. That wasn’t going to happen, but Catra was certain of one thing she could offer; Adora needed a friend, someone to give her the care she gives to others. 

Catra could do that. Even with an insistent crush, she could be a good friend to Ms Grey.

#

Catra spent time at the penthouse over the weekend as she often did. Adora floated through the house without the usual crease on  her brow. She seemed relaxed as she spent as much time as she could with Finn and Swifty while at home. 

Catra wasn’t the focus of Ms Grey’s attention but it didn’t mean she missed the little glances Adora gave her when she came into a room or joined in playing with Finn. Catra wasn’t being very friendly with how much she enjoyed Adora’s gaze on her. 

Catra did what she could to make the weekend relaxing for Adora. When Adora seemed tired on Sunday afternoon, Catra suggested movies to watch so they could spend the rest of the day indoors. 

Adora had been so tired from her week that she fell asleep on the couch while Finn chatted to Catra about how much they liked the fish movie they’d watched. When the blonde awoke from her nap Catra could see her embarrassment as she realised she fell asleep. Catra didn’t say anything and Finn hadn’t noticed their mama’s nap. So it remained a secret that Catra was happy to keep. It was important for Adora to rest. 

Adora made dinner that night, and based on how it smelt Catra was starting to think she was an excellent cook. Adora seemed happy as she hummed under her breath and moved around the kitchen with purpose. Catra laid on the couch, acting as Finn’s oversized pillow while they settled down to nap in a warm sunbeam. Catra was struggling to keep her eyes open but she didn’t want to stop watching Adora as she moved around the kitchen. 

It was hard not to look at Adora when she glowed like this. 

Adora turned towards the living room and smiled as she looked at Catra and Finn laying in the sun. Catra’s eyes were mostly closed against the glare of the light and Adora probably couldn’t see she was awake because Adora was staring. Which was strange because Adora usually looked away whenever they made eye contact.

Adora shook her head a little before returning to her task and Catra finally closed her eyes to enjoy her nap.  

“Miss Catra?” Finn asked in a soft tone. Catra thought they had been asleep but peaked one eye open to look at the little blond kitten on her chest.

“Yeah, Finny?” Catra asked in a soft whisper and Finn’s little ears twitched to capture the soft sound. 

“Do you like horses?” Finn asked, a determined look on their face that was very familiar. This expression was smaller and rounder, but it mirrored their mother exactly.  

“Oh, I’ve never met one. Do you like horses?” She asked curiously. Catra knew from Juliet that Adora liked horses, and maybe Finn liked them just as much. It would make sense if that was a genetic trait. 

“I do, the big ones are really tall but the little ones are fun,” Finn said, wiggling to get into a more comfortable position. 

“That does sound like fun,” Catra agreed, letting Finn settle again before she wrapped her arms around them. 

“My birthday is coming up,” Finn said, appearing to change the subject and Catra smiled. 

“It is, are you hoping to get a certain present?” Catra asked. She wondered if this was how Finn was going to ask for a horse, or a horse related present. 

“No, I just want to spend time with you and Mama, maybe we can go visit Swiftwind,” Finn said and Catra blinked in confusion before looking down at the big head that laid on the couch to join their nap. 

“Swifty’s right here,” Catra said looking back at Finn who giggled. They laid their head down on Catra’s shoulder and closed their eyes.  

“I know. I’ll ask Mama, and you have to come with us,” Finn said and Catra wasn’t really sure what she was being offered but she smiled anyway. Wherever Finn wanted to go couldn’t be that bad. 

“Sure Finny, we can go wherever you like,” Catra said with certainty and Finn smiled sleepily. 

“Promise?” Finn asked, holding out their hand with their pinky extended. Catra didn’t delay in hooking her own pinky finger with their little one. 

“Promise,” Catra agreed and they drifted off to sleep quickly after that. 

# 

After dinner Catra tidied up the kitchen while Adora got Finn ready for bed. They finished bath time and storybooks before Adora returned, and Catra was almost done. 

Adora stopped at the kitchen island and put her hands on the marble surface as she watched Catra wipe down the counter. Adora followed her tail as it twitched in the opposite direction to her actions, like it was a counterbalance as she bent over the counter. 

Adora looked away, deciding to stare at a spot on the counter instead as she waited for Catra to finish. It wasn’t long before Catra glanced at her curiously and stopped what she was doing. 

Adora was tense, her shoulders tight and her posture stiff. Adora could see Catra look her over out of the corner of her eye before she dropped the cloth in the sink and turned to Adora. She stepped into her line of sight as she stepped up to the island and mirrored Adora’s pose. 

Adora’s brow pinched as she blinked her eyes to focus on Catra. She really didn’t want to have this conversation. She didn’t want to put a damper on their nice weekend, but Catra needed to know so she could plan her time accordingly. 

Catra didn’t say  anything, just watched Adora as her ears and tail twitched curiously. She looked like she was reading a book and Adora hoped she couldn’t read her so easily. 

“You can have Tuesday off this week. I’m taking the day off work to have lunch with Finn,” Adora said and Catra nodded her head slowly. 

“That sounds nice, what's the occasion?” Catra asked and Adora frowned further. Adora wanted to look into Catra’s eyes, but she could already tell from her brief glance at her face that the low light of the kitchen was making her eyes sparkle. Adora had to stay focused, and for now, looking at her freckles was as close as she dared. 

“It’s the anniversary of my fathers accident,” Adora said, inwardly cringing at her poor delivery as Catra sucked in a quick surprised breath. Catra’s smile dropped and was quickly replaced with an apologetic expression. Adora really didn’t want to see that look of pity on her face.  

“Oh, I’m so sorry,” Catra said quickly. Adora wasn’t trying to be rude, but she ignored Catra’s apology so they could move onto the reason she was telling her. 

“We are having lunch with Adam and Teela,” Adora said, her voice sounding robotic. She knew her lack of emotion about the subject was just as damaging as if she broke down crying, but she didn’t want Catra to have to comfort her again.  

“Is there anything I can do to make the day easier?” Catra asked, trying to catch her eye. Adora looked away, not wanting to make this interaction any more awkward than it had to be. 

“No, but thank you. We’ll be okay,” Adora said and Catra nodded her head.  

“If you’re sure,” Catra said and Adora nodded, glancing at Catra but not meeting her eye. 

“I’m sure, good night Miss Catra,” Adora said and saw Catra’s expression turn sombre before Adora walked down the hallway. 

It was so easy with Catra, but even looking at her felt like too much. Adora had given herself a false sense of security. She thought that Catra would stop her from overstepping. But it seemed Catra couldn’t find the line between them either. Adora would need to be the one to ensure they stayed professional if Catra didn’t feel comfortable stopping her when she overstepped. 

Adora hoped she hadn’t made Catra uncomfortable at the Gala, especially crying in front of her and pulling her into her lap. That was not something friends do and it was definitely a step too far for them. Adora was embarrassed, but Catra was acting like nothing happened. It was confusing, to say the least. 

Adora hoped that Glimmer’s warning wasn’t going to come back to bite her. It would be just Adora’s luck to ruin a good thing with her stupid feelings. Adora couldn’t mess this up, Finn needed Catra. 

Friends, they had agreed they were friends. Adora knew how to make friends, she could be friends. Adora wasn’t running away, despite how it felt. She had an early meeting so she should go to bed early, she absolutely wasn’t fleeing. 

#

On Tuesday, Adora took Teela and Adam to lunch at a new restaurant uptown. She wanted to take Finn and, admittedly, Catra, because it had an indoor koi fish pond that she thought they would enjoy. 

The pond was large but shallow, with small bridges over the water to make it easier to watch the fish travelling underneath. The edges of the pond had fountains and plants to allow the fish somewhere to hide. The room itself was warm and humid but after watching Catra and Finn staring at the falling snow for hours, Adora wanted to see their reactions to this place. Adora would have to find a reason to bring Catra here one day to see the fish, but not this day.  

The day was about celebrating her father’s life, but that didn’t mean she couldn’t watch Finn enjoy the fish too. It would make her day a little less painful to see them so enthralled.

As Adora suspected, Finn was delighted by the fish, even if it proved hard to stop them from trying to touch their new watery friends. Adora wasn’t sure why Finn insisted on calling each of the gold and white fish “Nemo” but half the fish had that name by the time they sat down for lunch.

It was a rare treat for Adam to go out to lunch, not because he couldn’t afford it, but because it was difficult to go into public places with the support he needed. Adam’s nurse had joined them for lunch, but kept his distance when he wasn’t needed so they could have time together as a family. The nurse's presence meant that today was a bad day for Adam. 

Adora made sure Adam knew how much she appreciated him coming to lunch with her and promised they would do it at his house the following year. Adam turned down her offer, though he liked going out, despite the effort it took. He didn’t want to be cooped up in his house all day and forget what the world was like outside it.  

Adam tried to stop Adora fussing but it was hard when she could see the pain in his eyes even though he kept a smile on his face. Adora hated knowing he was in pain, but he didn’t let it show, especially not to Finn. 

Finn was always gentle with their uncle. They were observant, and even though no one told them to treat Adam differently, they had always been gentle with him. They were of course much rougher with someone like Mara or Bow, but it was easy to see that their gentleness didn’t mean they loved Adam any less. 

Lunch wasn’t a grand celebration, but a quiet recognition of a great man. The food was delicious and fresh and the company was excellent. Adora and Teela talked about her pregnancy experience so far and Adora shared some of her own stories. Teela was barely showing, but Adora was excited to share in their joy. 

After the meal was over Adam and Adora had a glass of scotch to toast in memory of their father while Finn and Teela drank juice. Finn teased Adam and Adora about their own drink being fancier and Adora managed to convince Finn to let her have a sip of their special juice drink. Teela wouldn’t let Adam have any of hers and Adam pouted long enough for Finn to also share their juice with him. 

Adora paid the bill despite Adam’s objections and soon they rose to leave. Adam’s nurse came closer and Adam waved them off. It was odd but when Teela took Finn’s hand and smiled at Adora, almost apologetically, she knew something was coming. 

“Can we talk a sec ‘Dor?” Adam asked and Adora looked at him curiously before she looked at Teela and Finn.  

“Finn and I will get some ice cream,” Teela said and Finn bounced excitedly at the idea. Adora felt concern rising in her chest. What discussion could possibly be inappropriate for Finn to hear? Adora didn’t know what Adam could want. 

“Uh, sure,” Adora said, smiling unconvincingly. Adam motioned for Adora to follow him and they walked to the koi pond. It was reasonably secluded by big doors that hid it away from the main restaurant and gave the illusion of privacy. 

When Adam got to the edge of the pond he leaned heavily on one of the wooden rails to take weight off his walking cane. Adora could see the way his muscles shook from the exertion and she watched, feeling useless to support him.

Adam turned to face Adora and her face was clearly saying too much because he huffed and smiled reassuringly.  

“I’m okay ‘Dor, don’t look so worried,” Adam scolded her and she tried to school the worry away from her face. She hid it away somewhere deep within her, like the other emotions she was unable to show.  

“I could get you a chair,” Adora offered, looking around for the closest one as proof that it wouldn’t be a bother but she already knew her offer would be denied. Adam laughed, a small pained sound as he leaned on the railing harder so he could use his walking cane to hit Adora’s shoe playfully. 

“Stop it, I didn’t bring you here to fuss,” Adam said and Adora nodded her head. Adam looked away at the fish for a moment, and Adora couldn’t stand the silence as her mind filled with every possible issue that could be considered her responsibility. 

“What did you want to talk about?” Adora prompted in a small voice. It was almost soft enough to be lost under the bubbling filters and fountains in the room. Adam turned his attention back to her with a serious look on his face and Adora’s stomach twisted. 

“Primus contacted me,” Adam explained and Adora nodded, she wasn’t surprised. It was a relief that Adam’s problem was work related, Adora could deal with work, she could deal with Primus. 

“I thought he would,” Adora said. She had expected that he would try to talk to Adam before the snow trip, but apparently he waited until he lost the preliminary vote to put pressure on Adora’s family. 

Adora hated anyone speaking to Adam about Greyskull. The stress could cause him a lot of unnecessary pain which she wanted to avoid. “What did he say?” Adora asked, curious what angle Primus took to try to convince Adam to join his cause.    

“He mentioned a new technology that’s being researched in Dryl,” Adam said and Adora frowned. She hadn’t heard anything about encouraging medical research out of Dryl in years, so how could she or her team have missed that? Entrapta was born in Dryl, so she had a special interest in anything coming out of that city's facilities. 

“What type of research?” Adora asked, maybe it wasn’t something that would benefit Greyskull.  

“Military” Adam said, his eyes meeting Adora’s as she clenched her jaw to stop herself from interrupting his explanation. “It’s a spinal chip. They think it can help with nerve damage, or specifically spinal damage,” Adam continued and Adora looked away as she felt hope rise in her chest. 

Adora glared at the fish as she realised what Primus was doing. He was trying to give Adam the answer to all his problems as a bargaining chip. Adora couldn’t blame Adam for being interested. 

Adora took a deep breath as she considered the information, what little that she had. Greyskull was always looking for new investments and research within the biotech sector, but she hadn’t heard anything about this chip that was capable of recovering nerve damage. Spinal chips were already known to the market, but the research had been stagnant due to lack of investor interest. 

Adora had invested in other chips over the years, but she never told Adam about them. It was still so experimental that she didn’t want to get his hopes up without some proof. The fact that she hadn’t heard of this chip meant it wasn’t independent research. The military must have been researching it themselves and released the study results for investor support. If Greyskull wanted to research this information, Adora would either need to work with the military directly or pay to get the exclusive research rights. Adora had the money, but unless the research was fail-safe, she couldn’t successfully bid against the military and win, not without risk. 

Adora would do anything for Adam, especially if it meant he wasn’t in pain, but she wasn’t sure she could do this, not unless she was sure it wouldn’t cause the end of Greyskull in the process. She didn’t want to get his hopes up if it was all for nothing. 

“I’d be willing to look at the proposal, but I need more information. I hope you know, Adam, that if there was technology that could help you, Greyskull would be working on it,” Adora said carefully. She didn’t want to shoot down his idea, but hopefully he knew that this wasn’t enough to act on. 

“I know…It’s just…I know that all this can’t be at the forefront of your mind, like the pain is at mine,” Adam said and Adora’s stomach dropped. Did Adam not believe that she was doing everything she could for him? 

“Adam,” Adora started gently, wanting to reassure him. 

“Adora, listen, please,” he said, his limbs trembling more than usual with the strain of holding his body up for so long. Adora’s heart ached to help him, so she closed her mouth and nodded, waiting for him to continue. 

“Thank you,” He said, adjusting to lean on the railing a little harder as he moved his feet, “I’m having a kid, ‘Dor, and I want to be a part of their life. I want to run with them, and play with them, and I can’t do that right now. I already felt useless when you needed help with Finn and I couldn’t be there for you. I don’t want that for my kid or Finn. I want to be a good father, and I want to be a good uncle. I need to be able to move more,” He said, his eyes swimming with emotion as he held Adora’s gaze. 

“You will be a good dad, regardless of whether you can chase them around a park,” Adora said, she didn’t want him to feel any less just because he was given a hard hand in life. Adam shook his head. 

“I know, but I want more. I want to look into it… please. I don’t want to have to vote with Primus to do it,” Adam said, his voice steady and his eyes set in determination. 

Adora looked at her brother for a moment, really looked at him. He looked weary, his bright blue eyes heavy with exhaustion. The way his eyes squinted with pain and his eyebrows pinched. He looked older for a moment and he looked every bit his father's son. 

Adora could never deny him his dream. She sighed and nodded. 

“I’ll look into it, but I can’t promise it's everything Primus has said it is,” Adora said and Adam nodded solemnly but he seemed to understand. 

“I know and I don’t trust him, but I can’t leave any avenue unexplored,” Adam said and Adora nodded. 

“I would never, Adam. I know you feel this every day, for every moment, but it's never gone from my mind either,” Adora said and Adam smiled sheepishly. 

“I’m sorry I said that, it was unfair. I was just worried you would disagree,” he said and Adora gave him a small smile.  

“I understand,” and she did understand. Adam didn’t believe she was doing everything she could to help him and it hurt. She wondered how many of her family members questioned her ability to take care of them. She needed to be better.  

#   

Adora took Finn from lunch to Angela’s house. When she walked them up the steps to the door she didn’t even get a chance to ring the bell before the door opened. Mara’s smiling face greeted them and Adora blinked in surprise. 

“What are you doing here?” Adora asked as Finn ran over to their aunt and was scooped into her arms with a laugh. 

“Nice to see you, too, little sis,” Mara said playfully as she cuddled Finn close to her face. 

“Of course it's nice to see you. I’m just surprised,” Adora said, approaching her grinning sister with some wariness. Mara would usually be working, and she was happy to see her but she must have taken the time off intentionally to come to dinner. “You didn’t bring your Nanny?” Mara asked, looking around like Catra would jump out of a bush. 

“She has the day off,” Adora explained with a frown. Why would Catra come to an event like this? It was a memorial of sorts, not a party. Adora took the day off to be with her family which was why she didn’t need someone to take care of Finn. She wasn’t sure what Catra would do with her day off but she made a mental note to ask her later. 

“That’s a shame,” Mara said and Adora felt a heat rising inside her chest at the interest Mara was showing Catra. She wasn’t jealous, but she was annoyed. It was different. 

“Can you take Finn inside? I just remembered a call I need to make,” Adora said, pulling her phone from her pocket. Mara grinned. 

“Sure, sis,” she said, adding a wink before she walked back into the house. Adora rolled her eyes, unsure what Mara was winking at her about, but decided to ignore it. She stepped into the hall to close the door for some privacy and rang the number on her screen. It was picked up after one ring. 

“I thought you took today off,” Entrapta’s voice came through the line. 

“I did, but I need you to look into something for me, it can’t wait till tomorrow,” Adora responded and Entrapta hummed as she started to type on her computer. 

“There is a new spinal chip being researched in Dryl and I want to know everything you can find about it,” Adora said and Entrapta’s fast clicking continued. 

“That’ll be easy, it's due to be auctioned, but I have an inside source that has said that it's not as promising as they claim,” Entrapta said and Adora let out a disappointed sigh.  

“Can you prove that?” Adora asked and more clicking before Entrapa hummed. 

“Yes,” she confirmed, no doubt in her voice. 

“Before the auction?” Adora asked and Entrapta snorted. 

“Definitely,” she agreed again. 

“Good, when can you present it?” Adora asked, pacing back and forth in the hallway as her chest tightened. 

“By the end of the week. By the way, the auction is next Wednesday, I’ve added them both to your calendar,” Entapta said after a short silence. Adora didn’t want to get too hopeful but she couldn’t deny that this call had helped. If there was anything wrong with the product, they could potentially start their own research with the details of what Entrapta knew didn’t work. That was something, at least.  

“Thanks Entrapta,” Adora said, trying to keep the emotion out of her voice. She didn’t want Entrapta to hear how much this meant to her. 

“Anytime,” Entrapta said, and the line went dead. Entrapta wasn’t really one for hellos and goodbyes. Adora was used to that, not to mention the fact that Entrapta had access to her calendar for no reason at all. Adora texted a message to Mermista to let her know about the meetings being added so she wouldn’t tell Entrapa where to stick it like she did last time she “ruined” Mermista’s system. 

Stop working on your day off. Was Mermista’s snarky response. Adora rolled her eyes and put her phone back into her pocket. She took a few moments to let herself reset back to family mode before she headed to the main parlour to meet her family. 

Bow, Glimmer and Angel spent the day at Angela’s house and made themselves right at home. Angel and Glimmer were sitting on a pile of pillows with movies playing on the big screen Television. Angela was sitting on her recliner with Finn on her lap as they watched the movie. Mara had returned to her seat on the other end of the couch from Bow, taking up as much space as possible.

“Adora, thank you for coming,” Angella said and Angel shh’ed her. She smiled and got to her feet, placing Finn on her chair to move away from the others to speak to Adora in a soft tone. 

“I wouldn’t miss it,” Adora said, giving her step mother a hug. When they pulled away, Angela had a playful smile on her face that Adora knew meant trouble. 

"So… some of our investors who were at the Gala have informed me you have a wife?'' Angela said and Adora felt her cheeks colour but she frowned at the accusation. 

“Where did they hear that?” Adora asked, annoyed to know that the media circus was spreading to her work and family. Surely they had something more interesting to write about. 

“Well, it was all the talk after you and your ‘young wife’ left the event after ‘starting a fight’ they said” Angela said, using quotation marks to show she didn’t believe the gossip. That was a relief, she didn’t need Angela to get any ideas and try to play matchmaker.   

“That is not what happened,” Adora said firmly and Angela looked at her curiously. 

“I warned you about taking Mermista, she is always trying to pick fights at these events,” Angela said, a fond look on her face at the thought of her late husband's secretary. 

“It…uh…wasn’t Mermista,” Adora said, trying to fight the heat in her cheeks. She couldn’t look Angela in the eyes which made her pause. 

“Oh, it wasn’t? Is she okay?” Angela asked, worry and confusion clear on her face. 

“She’s fine, she was just unwell,” Adora said, hoping to move on from this conversation quickly without having to talk about who she did take with her to the Gala. 

“I hope she's feeling better now,” Angela said, putting her hands together over her chest. She was watching Adora too closely and she felt transparent under her careful gaze. 

“She is, she was back at work yesterday just fine,” Adora said, glancing at Finn for an excuse to not look at Angela’s piercing gaze. 

“That’s good, who is this mystery wife then?” Angela asked the question Adora wished she hadn't. She considered lying but there was no use, she was sure there were pictures of them entering and leaving the event together. 

“Catra joined me,” Adora said as casually as she could manage, and Angela looked surprised. 

“Oh…” Angella said and Adora glanced at her face, she looked to be thinking far too hard about this information. She looked like she was doing complex mathematical equations in her head. Adora sighed. 

“Don’t start, she hasn’t been to anything fancy before and I needed a plus one, so I offered and she agreed. Let's not make it into something it's not. I don’t have a wife, and you would certainly know if I did,” Adora said firmly and Angela tipped her head like she was still considering her words before she nodded. 

“Of course, silly me. Come watch the movie with us,” Angela said and pulled Adora towards the couch to sit with her sister and brother-in-law. 

#

Since it was a Tuesday night, Finn was sleeping overnight with Angela, so Adora stayed late to spend extra time with her family. When Adora returned to the penthouse it was late and all the lights in the house were off. 

Adora walked down the hall quietly, not bothering to turn on the lights until she noticed a shadow sitting on the kitchen island. She tried to see what it was in the dark but her eyes wouldn’t adjust. 

Adora stepped into the kitchen and flicked on the light, quickly blinking her eyes as they landed on a vase of flowers sitting on the counter. Adora blinked a few more times as she looked at the pink carnations and white lilies in a soft pink vase. 

Adora almost turned the light off again. She assumed they were for Catra because she had received flowers before and seemed to enjoy them. What gave her pause was the little card hanging from the front of the vase that had her name in delicate cursive script. 

Adora stepped closer, no less confused as she touched the small card and opened it carefully. The message was brief and written in the same script. 

There’s nothing I can do or say to make this day any easier, but I hope these might help.

I’m thinking of you.

Adora felt her cheeks colouring at the words. She looked at the flowers and it slowly dawned on her that these flowers were for her. She looked back at the note and read the last part again as her heart fluttered but tried to subdue her reaction. 

Adora would have liked to know that Catra was thinking of her in any other context than this. Did Catra pity her? Did she see her yearly tradition with Finn as something sad? Adora missed her father more than anything, but she didn’t want Catra to think of her as a tragic child that couldn’t face her loss with grace. She wanted Catra to think of her, but not like this. 

Adora looked back at the flowers, the warmth returning to her chest as she reached up to touch the lilies with her fingertips. They were so soft, almost like Catra’s fur. 

Adora shook her head. She couldn’t dwell on that thought, it was dangerous. She moved the flowers to the counter near the coffee machine so she could see them again in the morning before she left. She touched the lily again, its texture was almost addictive. Adora released the flower reluctantly and walked down the hall. She paused at Catra’s open door.  

Catra was laying on top of her bed sheets in a little ball, already sleeping peacefully. Adora opened and closed her hands in a moment of indecision, torn between continuing down the hall and closing Catra’s door as a courtesy. 

Catra wasn’t purring but her laptop was open as she watched something on low volume. Adora had been out late, but she wondered if Catra had attempted to wait up for Adora, but quickly shook the idea from her head. 

Adora decided to take the plunge and stepped over the threshold of the room to approach the bed. Adora picked up the blanket that lay forgotten at the end of the bed and carefully placed it over Catra so she wouldn’t be cold during the night. 

Catra started to purr after a moment and Adora felt a warmth bloom inside her from her achievement. She gently closed Catra’s laptop to stop the video before she pulled the door closed and continued her trek to her room. It wasn’t enough to repay the kindness Catra had shown her by getting her flowers, but it felt like a start.  

Chapter Text

Catra jolted from her sleep, the memory of her dream slipped away quickly but the feeling of fingers on her skin remained. Her room was darker than she remembered and her body was nestled under her blanket. She glanced around. She noticed her door was closed after she intentionally left it open and her ears drooped from their alert points.  

She had tried to wait up to talk to Adora and see if she was alright after such a heavy day. She might have wanted to see Adora’s reaction to the flowers she bought her too. Catra wasn’t really a flower person, so when she wanted to get a bouquet that meant something she always defaulted to Perfuma to help her. She hadn’t been thrilled about the pink flowers, but she had bought them because she cared about Adora. Not caring enough about her boss was far from Catra’s problem. 

Catra had been lazing around the house after she got the flowers, so when she was comfy in bed she had accidentally fallen asleep. Apparently she napped too hard and completely missed her opportunity to see Adora that evening. 

Catra crawled out of bed, throwing back the blanket dramatically as she tip-toed to the door and into the kitchen. The flowers she had bought were no longer on the island in the kitchen, but moved to near the coffee machine. The house was completely silent and the smell of lilies subtly filled the room just like the lingering scent of Adora. At least she knew Adora was home.  

Catra sighed in disappointment and returned to her room. She laid down in her bed but after twisting herself up in her sheets for too long she realised it was no use. She was wide awake. She ruined her sleep schedule yet again. She laid there for what felt like hours before she remembered that Finn wasn’t home and she was off work until they returned later that day. 

Catra decided to take advantage of the unusual opportunity and dressed in her running clothes. She wore tight black exercise pants, and a crop top before she grabbed her running shoes. 

Catra hated her running shoes.

She bought them on a sale because they were almost 80% off and they were comfortable, but they were bright pink. When she closed her left eye the pink colour made her feel nauseated with its brightness. 

She forced herself to get used to running with them because she wasn’t buying new shoes till that pair died and she never looked at her feet. She crept back into the living room and was surprised to find Swifty awake and waiting for her by the front door. 

“Hey, you want to come, buddy?” she whispered and Swifty ‘boofed’ in response. 

“Shh, don’t wake the whole building,” Catra said with a laugh and grabbed his leash. He wagged his tail as she attached the lead and let him follow her from the penthouse into the elevator. 

#

Adora woke up earlier than intended. She couldn’t remember anything from her dreams but her racing heart told her they hadn’t been good. She decided not to wallow, she had plenty to do and really wanted to get an early start on them while Finn was away. When she hadn’t slept well it was a better use of her time to work. 

She dressed for the office and went into the kitchen to make coffee. She assumed it was too early for Swifty to want to get out of bed since he didn’t come to greet her like he usually did. She hadn’t even thought to check the time before she got up and dressed. She looked at the time and was surprised to see it was only 3 in the morning.

Adora gently touched the soft flowers that Catra got and it struck her for the first time that the carnations were pink. She hoped Catra hadn’t exchanged her own comfort for Adora’s. 

Adora was so deep in her own thoughts that she jumped at the quiet sound of the penthouse door opening. 

Adora looked up as Swifty burst into the room with excitement and went straight to his water bowl to drink his weight in refreshments. Adora looked at her dog with confusion before she looked back at the door.  

Catra appeared in the entrance to the hallway, taking her earbuds out. She was wearing a black crop top and leggings with bright pink running shoes. She had her hair up and pulled away from her face in a way that Adora hadn’t seen before but she looked beautiful. 

Catra was covered in sweat, glistening in the light  from the kitchen as her tail swayed behind her contentedly. She put both her earbuds into their charging case before she looked up and noticed Adora. Catra’s eyes were sparkling from the exercise and her cheeks were pink.

Adora was sure she had never seen anything so beautiful in her whole life. Catra’s surprised expression turned into a slow smile before she walked further into the kitchen. 

“Morning, you’re up early,” Catra commented and Adora realised that she had frozen in place. She was holding her coffee cup in mid air on its way to the coffee machine. She continued with her action quickly as she looked away from Catra. 

“Morning. Yes, I thought I might get some work done,” she spoke too quickly and her voice sounded strange to her own ears. 

“Did you not sleep well?” Catra asked curiously as she got a mug down to make her own coffee. Adora glanced over as Catra stretched on her toes to get the mug but quickly looked away before she was caught. She knew how to make Catra’s coffee the way she liked so she reached for her mug and Catra allowed her to take it. “Thanks,” Catra said with a smile, as their fingers brushed in the exchange.  

“I slept enough. What has you up so early?” Adora asked, her heart was beating so fast that she wondered if she might never sleep again unless she could get it under control. She turned to focus on the task at hand. 

“Couldn’t sleep,” Catra said with a shrug as she moved to lean on the counter near her. Adora felt heat trying to rise up her cheeks as her mind focused on Catra’s exposed midriff in the corner of her eye.

“Bad dreams?” Adora asked, forgetting her fluster to look curiously at Catra. They made eye contact but Catra quickly broke it before Adora could find the answers she was looking for.  

“Something like that,” Catra said, and Adora noticed a deeper red coming to her cheeks as she glanced away.  

“Does running help you with that?” Adora asked and Catra nodded. She found that no amount of exercise managed to stop her brain from spinning but she was happy it worked for Catra. Adora could at least focus on work, then her mind could make useful spirals.

“Sometimes. It helps to burn the energy at least,” Catra said carefully with another shrug. Adora felt like Catra didn’t want to answer her questions so she decided to drop the subject so Catra wasn’t uncomfortable. 

“I find exercise very therapeutic, so I can relate,” Adora said with a smile before she handed Catra her coffee. Catra smiled gratefully and took the cup to hold between her smaller hands. 

“You must have a lot of demons to fight,” Catra joked and Adora smirked slightly. 

“What are you saying Catra?” Adora asked, feeling some pride at the thought of Catra noticing her hard work. Catra’s face blossomed with colour and she bit her lip as she looked down at her coffee. She was silent for a moment before she spoke into her mug. 

“Sorry, that was inappropriate,” Catra apologised. Adora must have been more tired than she thought because it took Catra to remind her that Catra wasn’t just a beautiful woman living in her house, this was her employee.

“It’s fine. It was a nice compliment” Adora assured her and saw the way Catra’s lips twitched into a smile. 

“I’m going to shower and try to get some more sleep, enjoy your work,” Catra said and Adora tried not to watch Catra leave the room, but her leggings were tighter than even her leather pants and she really only had so much willpower in a day. Now it was all used up before she even started. 

“Hey Catra?” Adora said, not even sure what her brain would say when Catra turned back to look at her.

“Yeah?” 

“I like your shoes,” Adora said with a little smile as Catra’s cheeks went red. It felt like an inside joke between them and even though Catra seemed embarrassed to have something in the colour she hated, Adora liked that they had this. 

“It was the only colour they had in stock,” Catra defended adorably as she became visibly flustered. Adora just smiled a little wider before Catra huffed dramatically and walked away to shower. 

She was so cute. 

Adora felt more awake than ever as she went to her office to work. She hadn’t had even a sip of her coffee yet but the warm feeling in her chest was all the adrenaline she needed. 

She realised too late that she hadn’t thanked Catra for the flowers. She wasn’t sure when she would have another chance in her busy week. She wanted to tell Catra ‘thank you’, but maybe it was better to show her gratitude instead. 

Despite the early hour she decided to text Dee about getting Catra new running shoes that wouldn’t make her feel unwell. She wondered why Catra had bought them, but it didn’t matter. She had the means to fix this problem and so she would. 

She would do just about anything to ensure Catra’s comfort. 

#

Adora squinted tiredly at her laptop screen. It wasn’t late but she was exhausted. She came home for dinner but after it finished she had to return to the dark cave of her study. She hated that she had to cancel her ballet class with Finn this week, but they didn’t make a fuss.

Catra and Finn’s laughter floated through the door from the living room and it helped to relax the tension headache Adora had been suffering from all day. 

Adora rubbed her forehead gently when she heard the kettle in the kitchen. She considered taking a break to make herself a cup of tea when her study door opened without a knock. She looked at the small figure that entered her room, back lit by the light from the hallway. 

Adora hadn’t noticed how dark her office had gotten, maybe that’s why her eyes were hurting so much.  

“Mama?” Finn asked, standing before her desk with a determined look on their face. Adora smiled encouragingly at Finn.

“Yes, Finny?” Adora asked gently, she always had time for her kitten. She pushed back from her desk and motioned for Finn to come closer. “Come sit with me, what did you need?” Adora asked. Finn followed her instructions and was scooped into her lap. Their brow was still crinkled with a hard set to it. They clearly had something on their mind. 

“Can I have a birthday wish? I promise I won't ask for anything else. It’s big. Is that okay?” Finn asked and Adora tried to stop the way her stomach sank a little at their words. Nothing was too much for Finn, she would do anything for them. Adora’s fear returned, maybe Adam wasn’t the only one who thought she couldn’t give them everything they needed. Was she not doing enough? 

“Anything for you Finny,” Adora reassured and she rubbed their back encouragingly. “What would you like?”Adora asked and Finn smiled. 

“I want to visit Swiftwind with Miss Catra, can we do that?” Finn asked and although Adora would do anything for Finn, she couldn’t make someone else do the same. If Catra said no, Adora couldn’t and wouldn’t make her, even if she was Adora’s employee. 

“We would have to ask Miss Catra, but we can definitely visit Swiftwind,” Adora said and Finn frowned as they balled their little hands into Adora’s shirt. 

“Miss Catra said she would come with us. She promised,” Finn said, their voice getting louder as they became unusually emotional and Adora rubbed their back to sooth them. 

“It’s okay, we can do it even if she can’t make it,” Adora reassured and Finn shook their head quickly. 

“I don’t want to do it if she doesn’t come,” Finn said as they crossed their arms stubbornly and Adora smiled. They looked adorable and grumpy. It was rare for Finn to put their foot down about something and it made Adora proud that they knew what they wanted and would fight for it. 

“Okay, let's ask her. We can go this weekend,” Adora offered. She hoped Catra would be more open to a weekend trip. Adora could give her time off during the week to make up for it. Adora hoped she didn’t already have plans, it was only two days notice. They might have to go for the weekend after Finn’s birthday if she was busy.  

The already open door swung wider and Catra looked around in the darkness of the room. Her eyes grew dark as her pupils grew in the darkness to capture Adora and Finn sat in the light of her open laptop. 

Catra smiled when she saw them and Adora felt her chest warm. Catra was always cute, but there was something about her big eyes that made Adora melt just as easily as she did when Finn looked at her like that.  

“There you are, your hot chocolate is ready,” Catra said and Finn smiled excitedly. “Would you like tea, Adora?” Catra asked and Adora felt her stomach flutter when Catra said her name. Catra still said it rarely enough that it felt like a treat when she used it, but she was sure she would never get tired of hearing it. 

“Yes please, I also have something to ask you, if you have a moment?” Adora asked and Catra nodded.

“Sure, let me get the drinks, I’ll be right back,” she said and true to her word she was only a minute before she returned with a tray of drinks. She put the tray on the desk to hand Adora and Finn their drinks before she took her own and sat on the chair across the desk from them. 

“Thank you,” Adora said and Catra only smiled like it was nothing. Adora cleared her throat and thought about how to bridge the topic.  Catra was patient as she sipped her drink and slowly a soft purr interrupted from Adora’s lap as Finn attempted to eat their marshmallow without touching it. Adora watched the marshmallow bobbing away from their little fangs as her chest felt like it was bursting with affection. 

Adora looked at Catra to see a similar expression on her face as she watched Finn. It was impossible not to love Finn, but Adora felt a strange feeling wash over her as she realised just how much Catra cared for Finn. 

“Finn has asked to go visit our family ranch this weekend for their birthday and would like you to come with us. I’m happy to pay you for the time and give you some weekdays off in exchange,” Adora offered and hoped Catra’s affection for Finn would stop her saying no and disappointing Finn. 

“Ohhh, that’s what Finn meant.” Catra said with a little laugh. “Has this got something to do with horses?” Catra asked with a playful smile and Adora gave her a little smile in return. 

“Yes, we have riding horses and a large property we can explore,” Adora said and saw the dark shadow of Catra’s tail flicking behind her. She wasn’t sure if that was a good flick or a bad flick in the dark but Catra still smiled. 

“Sounds like fun, I’m in. But I don’t think you need to pay me for another holiday so soon,” she said with a grin and Finn bounced on Adora’s lap happily at the news. 

“Yay!” Finn trilled and Adora grabbed their mug quickly as they attempted to ditch it at the table in their hast to get out her lap. Finn ran around the table and Catra helped them crawl into her lap as she put her own mug down with her other hand.  

“It’s still work if you can’t do what you want to do on your weekend,” Adora said and Catra laughed as she looked up at Finn who was now standing on her lap and hugging around her neck. Adora felt her chest warm again as Catra’s smiling face turned towards her.  

“Where else would I want to be on Finn’s birthday weekend?” Catra said and Adora couldn’t be more grateful. 

#

Adora let out a long and slow sigh as she leaned back on her chair. Any hope she had held onto was slain by Entrapta and her surprisingly easy to follow presentation. 

Adora knew everything about her company and she knew every product, but Entrapta was one of the few people who could stump her with details. 

Entrapta was standing by the projection screen at the end of the large meeting table. The single word of her last slide was still on the screen in bright red letter art, “inoperative”. 

Adam was going to be crushed and Adora didn’t know what she could do to fix this. Entrapta was silent, watching Adora’s face curiously as she waited for feedback on the slideshow. 

Adora took a deep breath and sat forward instead of slouching into her high backed chair like a teenager. She sat tall and put away her personal feelings about the information and focused on Entrapta’s efforts so she could give her feedback about her report. 

“Great job Entrapta, that was a very comprehensive presentation,” Adora started and Entrapta beamed. “I like the layout you used for your slides. I think you did well to present the information in an easy to understand and clear way,” 

“Thank you, you told me it was too complicated last time,” Entrapta agreed, nodding her head and Adora smiled. 

“I did but to be fair, you showed that presentation in code, so I think it was too complex for most of us,” Adora said and Entrapta nodded in understanding. Not everyone could read code the way Entrapta did, it was like code was her first language.  

“Did you like the animations? I tried to make it friendly,” Entrapta asked.

“I did, I think you would need to change the word-art if you were going to present this to the board, but otherwise you did great to take on the points I gave you last time,” Adora said, the word-art was a little juvenile and maybe accidentally condescending in a way that the board would not appreciate. 

“Am I presenting it to the board?” Entrapta asked, looking confused. 

“No. I just meant, could not use the word-art in something you might present to the board,” Adora clarified.

“Ah, I see, how do you feel about the information?” Entrapta asked and Adora sighed before putting her face in her hands. She took a moment to consider how she was feeling. She wasn’t sure. She had tried not to get her hopes up, but she was still disappointed. She wanted this so badly for Adam and she felt like she was letting him down.  

“Disappointed, I guess,” Adora said, lifting her head and sitting back again.

“It is fascinating research, I would enjoy delving deeper into it, personally” Entrapta nodded her head and Adora smiled. She knew Entrapta wanted to work on it, but they needed a launching point or the research would take years to complete. 

Entrapta clicked out of her presentation and turned off the projector. “My friend was working on this research in Dryl, but he stopped,” Entrapta said and Adora blinked at her. She wasn’t sure if she was more surprised that Entrapta had someone she called a friend, or that she knew someone working on this project. She said she had an inside source for this information. Was it a direct source? 

“Wait, can we go back a second,” Adora asked, putting her head in her hands for a moment to collect her thoughts. Too much was running through her mind. She was trying to get everything done before her trip so she could relax, but the looming deadline was causing extra stress.  

“Which part?” Entrapta asked, looking confused. Adora lifted herself up again and took a deep breath. She tried to quiet her mind so she could take in the extra information she was about to receive. Adora knew she should stop trying to hold everything in her head and start writing things down to clear her cluttered brain but that would be a huge undertaking and she didn’t have time.

“Your friend works on this project?” Adora insisted and Entrapta tipped her head. 

“Yes, he did. He quit,” Entrapta said and Adora sat forward, trying not to be too eager. 

“He quit this project? Why? When?” Adora asked and Entrapta looked mildly worried. 

“Yes, he quit. Should I be concerned about your processing? Are you not sleeping again?” Entrapta asked, tilting her head curiously before she glanced down at She-Ra. Adora pushed down her feelings of being judged, she knew Entrapta didn’t mean it like that.  

“Yes, I’m sleeping. I just need more information, can you please explain?” Adora asked, changing methods when she reminded herself who she was talking to. 

“Ah, right.” Entrapta said, grabbing the only papers she had brought into the room with her. It had been sitting in front of her on the desk during the whole presentation but she never once looked at it until now. Entrapta glanced over the first page of the small stack of papers in her hand. 

“My friend used to work at Horde Military Bio Mechanics which is the facility that is attempting to make this chip. He quit one month ago and since then the project has stagnated. The research has been his life’s work and most of the chip is his design due to his own struggles with physical ailments. Horde discovered his chip and wanted to build on it for military use. He was fine with that as long as he had control over its application. Horde agreed but later changed their mind and when they tried to adjust their agreement, he left to continue his own independent research,”

“He’s independent now?” Adora asked, her hope tentatively returning. If he was independent, they might be able to purchase his research or even collaborate on the chip's creation. Entrapta nodded her head, looking up from what Adora assumed was a report in her hands.  

“What are you holding? Is that the report?” Adora asked, pushing back from the table and rising to step closer to her. Entrapta shook her head at Adora’s question, her purple pigtails dancing around her with the motion.

“No, when I was talking to my friend he expressed that he would be interested in working with Greyskull if you would consider him. But he asked that you please not hold his family against him,” Entrapta said, putting the papers against her chest so Adora couldn’t see them. Adora looked at her curiously before she frowned. 

“What do you mean? What is his name?” Adora asked, as she realised she hadn’t thought to ask. Instead of answering, Entrapta held out the document that Adora realised wasn’t a report, but a resume. Adora’s stomach dropped when she saw the name at the top of the page, in black and white. 

It read: Harold Primus.  

#

Adora paced from one end of her office to the other, the window flashing the late afternoon light as she moved up and back along her path. The rhythm of her steps helped to calm her racing mind and let her consider the information she had been given. 

Entrapta had been right to be cautious of that family name but she had been friends with Harold - ‘Hordak’ she called him - for years. They had been friends for much longer than Hank Primus had even been on the board of directors. He wasn’t as old as some of the board members, only about middle aged. Entrapa knew that Adora would want as much information about Harold as possible to even consider hiring him. 

Harold was one of three brothers, triplets. Harold was the middle child, Hank being a full ten minutes his senior. Adora didn’t know Hank was a triplet, but until recently he wasn’t on her radar and she hadn’t looked into his background or family. 

She knew about his business, Primus and Primus. Which helped large companies avoid, reduce and pay government issued fines for not following the law. They were an important part of the business world, but not one Adora had ever had to utilise. 

Adora never considered who the other Primus was in that title. She half expected that Primus’ ego was so large that he needed to say his name twice.    

According to Entrapta, the other Primus was William, but he preferred to go by ‘Wally’. He was the ‘good cop’ to Hank’s ‘bad cop’ method of dealing with litigation. 

Adora turned at the window and walked back the way she came. Her head down and her eyes following the even pacing of her feet. 

The only reason she was even considering this was because of Adam. This was the break they needed to start their own research but Adora was worried. 

What if this was a setup to get one of Primus’ brothers into Greyskull? 

Was this how Hank planned to get his hands on She-Ra? 

Stealing company secrets was a crime and all her employees signed non-disclosure agreements but who better to talk their way out of jail than someone who did it for a living?  

Was she being paranoid or logical? She couldn’t tell anymore. There was too much in her head. She needed more information and she really didn’t have time to get it before she had to leave. 

Adora glanced at her computer to check the time. She had forty minutes before she needed to leave and pick up Catra and Finn from the house and get to the airport. 

Adora’s stomach twisted when she thought of flying. She really didn’t need this stress right before she had to be in the air trapped in a metal box. 

She tried to take some deep breaths and think. What was her next logical step? Entrapta would have a full file on Harold ‘Hordak’ Primus by Monday so she could better consider his application. There was nothing more she could do without information. 

Adora stopped pacing and let out a slow breath. She was torn between calling Adam and keeping him in the dark for the time being. If she had to let him down, she would rather do it once. He had his hopes up but that research wasn’t viable so she didn’t want to give him hope in Harold if she couldn’t trust him enough to hire him. Harold could be another dead end. 

Adora hated keeping secrets from Adam. They weren’t as close as they used to be because of her schedule, but he was her twin and he meant the world to her. 

If she had more time she would go to his house and talk through the whole thing, but that would have to wait until next week, because she promised to take Finn and Catra to the ranch. 

Adora hadn’t asked Dee for appropriate clothing for Catra on this trip but she was aware that they bought Catra her new running shoes already. Adora hoped she liked them. 

It was hard to find gear for the ranch in the city and Catra needed special boots to be around the horses. Adora knew that once they landed they could get the things they needed in town before they went to the ranch. This way she could avoid telling Dee about her trip. 

Adora didn’t need Dee asking more questions than they already were. She had a whole work chat filled with messages she was ignoring from them. Dee didn’t always need a response, sometimes it was just a string of consciousness. They would send her pictures of outfits that they thought would suit her and she would react with a thumbs up or thumbs down emoji and it would appear in her wardrobe. It didn’t always matter if she gave something a thumbs down, sometimes it would end up in her wardrobe regardless. 

Dee was a strong believer that feeling good in your skin meant every layer had to be impeccable. Which meant Adora had a large collection of far too fancy sets of lingerie that she ignored. Adora preferred to wear her sports bras under most of her office outfits, she was a mum, so fancy underwear wasn’t high on her list of importance.     

No one was going to see her underwear but her anyway, so it didn’t matter. 

#

At exactly five on the dot, Adora’s car pulled up out front of Greyskull. Mermista asked to be dropped off on her way to pick up Catra and Finn since she lived on the way to Adora’s penthouse so she agreed. Adora did wonder if Mermista had ulterior motives for carpooling when she sat in the front seat and let the driver talk her ear off. 

Adora was already a bundle of nerves so she put up the divider and ignored her employees while staring out the window. Traffic was backed up and it was a crawl to get to Mermista’s and the penthouse in rush hour. 

Adora let out a breath she didn’t know she was holding when they pulled up and she could see Catra and Finn waiting inside the building with security and Juliet. Adora smiled, despite the tinted windows when Catra spotted the car and quickly collected their bags to come outside. 

Catra had chosen to dress for comfort, wearing leggings and a baggy t-shirt that made her look adorable and sleepy. They were taking a late flight so they could sleep - or not sleep - on the plane.  

Adora got out of the car to help Finn get buckled in while Juliet helped Catra put the bags in the boot. Finn was already in their horse print pyjamas and holding the wooden toy Catra bought them. They said it was their travel toy, and Adora couldn’t argue since it was much easier to pack than the huge penguin they had gotten for being good at the dentist.

Since the first time Adora accidentally ordered the smaller car and it hadn’t been a problem she hadn’t specified the size again. They were in a smaller car today, which meant Catra would sit in the middle between Finn’s car seat and Adora. 

Catra was distracted trying to finish her conversation with Juliet before she got into the car. Juliet wouldn’t be coming with them to the airport this time because they wouldn’t be going through security and instead driving straight onto the tarmac. 

Catra had one hand on the car and the other motioning as she spoke. Once she finished exchanging goodbyes Catra stepped off the curb and stumbled a little on the uneven surface. 

Adora didn’t think before she grabbed Catra’s hand to steady her and Catra laughed at herself before she used Adora’s hand to get into the car. 

Adora looked at Juliet to see her mischievous smile as she watched Adora. Her expression said far too much about what she wanted to say. Adora felt flustered and a little caught, she glared at her aunt to keep quiet before bidding her goodbye and joining Catra and Finn in the car. 

Finn quickly fell asleep in the car but Catra seemed much more excited and awake than their last drive to the airport. Adora was relieved they wouldn’t have to deal with the press or security since they were using her private jet. 

She wasn’t a big fan of flying. Her fear of heights easily translated into a fear of falling and she hated not being in control of her environment. It was a perfect recipe for disaster. Large planes were a little better, but there was a reason Adora didn’t use her private jet to travel very often. The smaller the plane, the worse the turbulence and it grated on her already frayed nerves until her body was twisted tight with stress.

The ranch was in the middle of nowhere, about eighteen hours by car from the nearest major airport. The small plane could land on the local airstrip which was used by emergency services to help the families living remotely. 

It was the best way to get Finn what they wanted, and not take up too much of Catra’s time. But Adora was a ball of anxiety as they arrived at the airport. They were waved through by security onto the service road and they drove to the hanger where Adora’s jet was kept. 

The car parked and Adora had to force herself to move without shaking. She was an adult and she knew her fear was silly, so she just had to force her way through it.   

Finn was still asleep and didn’t stir when Adora lifted them out of their car seat. The staff unloaded the car and she watched Catra talking with the driver as she cradled Finn in her arms to sooth her own panic. 

The jet had a small staircase from the tarmac to the door and Adora let Catra walk ahead of her. Catra made it clear that she hadn’t expected the private plane and was looking at it with wide eyed curiosity. Adora would have enjoyed watching Catra’s big eyes taking in the new experience if Adora wasn’t filled with so much tension. 

“Wow,” Catra said. She was already at the top of the stairs and looking inside the cabin but Adora was still standing firmly on the ground, trying to force her legs to move. Catra disappeared into the plane to explore but when Adora took too long to move Catra reappeared at the door. 

Catra’s curious eyes were now on her and it made Adora feel transparent. Adora cleared her throat and gripped the hand railing too tightly as she finally got herself to walk up the stairs. She hoped Catra thought that Adora’s vice-like grip was because she was holding Finn and not because of the terror she was feeling about their imminent flight.  

“Are you okay?” Catra asked, her eyes focusing into slits as she looked at Adora’s face. Adora cleared her throat, trying to force air into her lungs as she reached the doorway to the jet. She could do this, she had to do this.  

“I’m fine,” she said, her voice sounding raspy as she forced herself to speak without letting her feelings bubble up with her words. Catra didn’t seem convinced but she reached out to take Finn from Adora. Adora didn’t want to let them go, holding them made her feel better, even if they were already asleep. 

“I’ll put them on the bed,” Catra said and Adora had no good reason to stop her. Catra took Finn into her arms and they were still dead to the world. Adora stepped out of the way of the door to allow the hostesses to bring their luggage into the cabin. She felt out of place in her own jet, but she didn’t know what else to do. 

Catra wasn’t gone long, appearing from the bedroom door and closing it quietly. Adora was relieved that at least Finn wouldn’t have to witness her ridiculous reaction to flying. 

Adora hadn’t been in this jet since Melody wanted a shopping trip in Mystacor. She had gotten plenty of use out of it when travelling for her photo shoots, but Adora was an inconveniently bad flyer, so Melody often didn’t want her to come on her trips. 

Adora had been doing well not to think about Melody, or the new information she had learned at the Gala. She didn’t want to think about it, so keeping herself busy kept it off her mind. 

Catra was here now, and Adora had sleeping pills that could help her ride out most of the flight. She would never take them if it was just her and Finn, but she knew Catra would care for Finn if they needed something while she was unconscious.   

“They didn’t even twitch, they are really sleeping deep,” Catra said playfully and Adora forced an uncomfortable smile. She hadn’t moved another inch since she got out of the way for the hostesses. Catra squinted at her suspiciously and glanced at the staff. 

Catra stepped closer to Adora, entering her personal space and causing Adora’s already panicked heart to race. Adora held her breath as Catra looked up at her with concern in her pretty eyes. Adora was only vaguely aware that the staff had stepped back out of the plane.

“Are you okay? You seem stressed,” Catra asked in a soft whisper and Adora nodded her head before Catra even finished the question. 

“I’m fine,” Adora repeated but Catra didn’t look convinced. Catra bit her lip as she glanced at the door. Adora appreciated that Catra was so careful with Adora’s privacy.

“You know…it would be okay if you weren’t fine…” Catra started and Adora wanted to deny it again, but as she opened her mouth to protest Catra gently took her right hand. Adora felt her cheeks heat up at the contact but it was enough distraction for Catra to continue uninterrupted. “In fact, if we know what the problem is, it makes it much easier to fix,” Catra said, her eyes still on Adora’s face. Adora closed her mouth once she realised it was still open and tried to swallow the lump in her throat. 

Adora wondered if this was how Catra got Finn to admit their fears. Adora felt childish so it made sense for Catra to treat her like a child.  

Adora wanted to trust Catra with this, and her gentleness made her feel like she could. Catra hadn’t judged her for her fear of heights and each time she expected ridicule Catra took a completely different approach. Adora had never admitted her fear to anyone in her family. When she travelled as a kid she just sucked it up because she didn’t want to be a burden. 

Catra was waiting, giving Adora time to think while she stroked her hand gently with her thumb. Adora had forgotten they were holding hands but it was soothing and already doing wonders to calm her nerves. Adora felt the heat in her face but it was far from the panic she had been feeling before, this heat was completely Catra’s doing. 

“I don’t like flying,” Adora whispered so softly that Catra’s ears twitched to capture the sound. Melody would have scoffed, told Adora she was being ridiculous and how Adora’s fear was embarrassing. Melody would have made it about herself. 

Catra just smiled gently and squeezed Adora’s hand. 

“Thank you for telling me. That is a really common and understandable feeling. How much don’t you like it?” Catra asked and Adora felt like she could breathe again when the weight of her fear was shared. Maybe her fear of flying was made worse because of her fear of being judged for being afraid. Adora felt warmth spreading in her chest as she looked at Catra, slowly replacing the tension clutching her heart. 

“I hate it. Especially small planes. I have pills that I can take. If you don’t mind watching Finn?” Adora asked, feeling shy and vulnerable. She was rewarded for her honesty with a smile from Catra and gently squeezed to her hand. 

“I can absolutely do that, when should you take them?” Catra asked and Adora checked her phone for the time. 

“Soon, they help me to relax, so I can sleep,” 

“I might need to get some for my insomnia,” Catra joked and Adora smiled. “I’ll get you some water,” Catra said and released Adora’s hand before she walked over to a hostess to get a small bottle of water. 

Adora got out her pills and when Catra offered her the opened bottle of water and she took the pills. 

“Thank you,” Adora said, sure that those words could never be strong enough to express how much she appreciated Catra in that moment. 

Catra smiled and looked Adora up and down for a moment. Adora was confused and tried not to blush at the appraisal.

“You should change into something more comfortable so you can sleep,” Catra said and Adora felt silly for thinking that Catra was looking at her with another kind of interest. Adora nodded, she had about ten minutes to get comfortable before she started to feel the effects. 

She changed into her blue silk pyjamas and brushed her teeth. She would miss dinner but she could eat once they landed. She was too stressed for food right now. 

“Do you want to sleep in the bed with Finn?” Catra asked,

“I don’t want to squish them if I move and don’t wake up. I’ll sit in the chairs,” Adora said, finding a chair that looked like it was for two people and sat down. 

Adora buckled herself in and was surprised when Catra sat beside her at the window. 

“What are you doing?” Adora asked and Catra smiled. 

“Making sure you don’t fall off your chair,” Catra said playfully and Adora felt like she was pouting. 

“I’m not going to do that,” Adora said and Catra shrugged. 

“Don’t think I’m all selfless, or anything. I get cold on planes,” Catra said and Adora bit her cheek to stop herself from smiling at the adorable admission. Catra had spent the last flight snuggled with Finn under the blankets but Adora thought that was for Finn’s benefit rather than Catra trying to steal their warmth.

“That’s fine, I run hot,” Adora said with a smile and Catra looked at her from under her eyelashes for a moment. 

“I know,” Catra said and Adora felt her cheeks warm. They never talked about the night they lost power on their snow trip and cuddled. Adora thought about it often when she couldn’t sleep, but Catra’s comment was the closest they had gotten to mentioning it to each other.

Adora could feel her medication starting to work and blamed that for the fluttering in her chest. There was a long gap in her memory after that and she assumed she was asleep. 

She woke slowly, the hum of the plane under her reminded her where she was. Catra hadn’t left when Adora slept. Adora didn’t need to open her eyes to know Catra was there. She could feel Catra’s curls under her cheek and feel something warm and soft under her hand. Catra had sat on her left, so She-ra was never going to offer her any warmth, which was why Adora wasn’t surprised to feel Catra tucked against her side. 

“Excuse me,” Catra’s soft voice penetrated her sleepy brain and she jolted a little confused. Catra’s soft hand touched her cheek to sooth her.  

“Shh, you’re okay,” Catra said and gently guided Adora’s head to rest against her again. Adora didn’t fight it, she was comfortable and didn’t want to wake up if the plane was still in flight. Adora heard the person Catra was actually talking to, one of the staff, respond to her. 

“Can you bring her dinner in like thirty minutes?” Catra asked and Adora made a soft ‘mm’ sound at the thought of food, but she was still too tired to rouse herself any further. 

“Sure, we’ll be landing in about an hour,” the hostess said and Catra responded before sitting back into Adora’s body fully. 

Adora had the urge to pet the warmth below her hand but her body wasn’t listening as it gently squeezed. She wasn’t really awake, but the pills were wearing off. She wanted to sleep a little longer. 

“Who knew you were so handsy without a kitten to hold,” Catra’s playful voice reached into her sleepy mind and made her think of Finn. Was she holding Finn? That was bad. Adora couldn’t hold Finn with She-Ra, she couldn’t remember why, but she knew she couldn’t. Catra was taking care of Finn, so Finn must be safe. Catra loved Finn and Adora loved that Catra loved Finn. 

“Kitten,” Adora mumbled and heard a soft gasp as she snuggled into the bundle she held in her arms.  

Chapter Text

Catra thought she was prepared for Adora on sleeping pills. She could handle intoxicated Adora, they’d met. She could even handle unconscious Adora if she had to, but she wasn’t prepared for sleepy Adora to be Finn levels of cuddly. 

The pills worked and Adora slept for the whole flight. Catra got herself a blanket but it was unnecessary once she scooted into Adora’s side to steal her ridiculous amounts of heat. 

Catra couldn’t really blame Adora for the way she responded when she was the one to touch her first. She moved Adora’s prosthetic arm so she could slide under it and slot herself into her side. Catra should have expected Adora to move but she hadn’t expected her cool prosthetic hand to land so low around her hip as her fingers splayed over Catra’s thigh. 

Catra tried to shake the heat from her face. Adora wasn’t trying to feel her up, she couldn’t even feel with that hand. She was just trying to get comfortable and Catra had to admit, her arm around her supported her perfectly. 

Catra sat with her human sized heating while she went between napping and reading. Catra was the only one to eat the dinner provided and she had no idea what it was. She would have to ask Adora about it later, but it tasted good and it was catered for her dietary needs.

A few hours into the flight Adora moved like she might wake up and Catra watched her face while she listened to her heart beat for the signs. She wondered if Adora would need more than one set of pills. But Adora didn’t wake, just moving to rest her head against the top of Catra’s and pulling her closer. 

Catra purred but resisted her urge to nuzzle against Adora. That was definitely not on the consensually approved touching list. 

Adora while sleeping was apparently not listening to the approved touching list either. Catra was reading her book when she crossed one leg over the other to get more comfortable and relax against Adora. Adora stirred like she had many times during the flight and Catra had stopped checking on her so closely as she settled into a new more comfortable position. 

She couldn’t really ignore when Adora put her very warm and very real hand on her other thigh to pull her closer. She-Ra was doing most of the heavy lifting and if Catra hadn’t been buckled into her seat she was sure she would have ended up in Adora’s lap. After She-ra tugged and didn’t get her to move she gave up and rested more against Catra instead. 

She had Adora draped over her with her cheek against the top of her head, arm around her waist and hand on her thigh. Catra was looking at the hand as she considered what to do. She didn’t want to move it, and because she didn’t want to, Catra decided she absolutely should. 

She gently took Adora’s hand and moved it back into her own lap, hoping it was comfortable. She went back to her book but it was barely two minutes before the hand returned to Catra’s leg again. 

Catra huffed and decided to leave it. She pulled the blankets around them further to hide Adora’s hand placement but it wasn’t really necessary. The staff had been weirdly treating them like an adorable newlywed couple for the whole flight and Adora snuggling her to death wasn’t going to stop their assumptions. 

Surely because this was Adora’s jet they would know that Ms Grey wasn’t in a relationship. Not that Catra wanted Adora to move away or snuggle up with someone else. 

Adora came the closest to waking up about an hour before the end of the flight and Catra asked for her food to be brought out later when she might be more awake. 

Adora hadn’t talked in her sleep once during the flight until Catra stupidly called her boss handsy. Adora got the last laugh by squeezing Catra’s thigh and calling her “kitten” before falling back to sleep. Catra was left a bright red flustered mess until they landed. 

Adora started to stir after they were on the ground but only once Catra used some mission impossible skills to remove herself from Adora’s insistent hold to check on Finn. 

Finn was sleepily trying to put on their own clothes but had forgotten the step of taking off their pyjamas first. Catra smiled and helped Finn to put their pants on and they had picked out a shirt from Adora’s luggage to wear. Catra didn’t object and helped them dress before she brought them back into the main cabin to find Adora blinking herself awake. 

“Are we already there?” Adora asked, a small confused frown on her face. Catra smiled at the thought that she had two sleepy Grey’s to deal with this morning. Catra had slept a few hours but she was worried about leaving Finn and Adora unattended for the flight so she mostly read her book. 

“Yeah, those sleeping pills are no joke,” Catra said lightheartedly. Adora frowned deeper and looked up at Catra.

“They are only meant to last four hours, wasn’t the flight six hours?” Adora asked, her voice still groggy. She looked confused as she yawned and Catra worried that Adora was overreacting to this medication like last time. Catra tipped her head to watch carefully as Adora rubbed sleep from her eyes. Catra’s movement gently touched the top of Finn’s head and activated their nuzzle button. Catra giggled and nuzzled them back gently.

“You must have really needed the sleep,” Catra said and Adora nodded her head. 

“Yeah, probably,” Adora said softly and looked down at her hand with a frown. Catra tried not to blush when she saw it was the hand Adora had on her thigh for half the flight. She really hoped Adora didn’t remember Catra’s stupid comment or her own response to it.

“Did you want to change before we head to the shops?” Catra asked and it successfully pulled Adora out of whatever she was thinking about and she nodded. She went to the bedroom and changed. 

Catra was reassured that Adora wasn’t overreacting to the medication when she emerged from the bedroom wide awake and looking well rested. Catra was relieved. They went to meet their driver and stopped at a shop in town where Adora spent what Catra could only assume was a stupid amount of money on safety equipment for an adult Magicat to be around horses. 

Catra didn’t mind the shopping, but she was not looking forward to meeting horses for the first time.  

#

Catra didn’t think much could sway her feelings about animals that were bigger than her, but Adora was really starting to change her mind about ranch life. When she stepped into the living room of the homestead they were staying in, wearing what Catra could only describe as a cowboy outfit, Catra was just about sold on the idea. 

Adora was wearing light coloured jeans, a blue plaid shirt rolled up to her elbows and a quite ridiculously sized belt buckle. She even had the hat and boots, both in brown, with her hair loose around her shoulders. 

“What do you think?” Adora asked and Catra was saved from saying something embarrassing when Finn stepped out wearing an identical outfit and Catra’s heart melted. 

“You both look great,” Catra said truthfully and crouched to help Finn to work out how to put on their hat. She turned it around and placed it over their ears carefully and smiled. 

“You’re so handsome,” Catra said and Finn grinned. Catra stood and noticed Adora looking at Catra’s outfit. Catra’s outfit was dark where Adora’s was light. Catra’s jeans were a dark blue, her buckle small and practical and her shirt was a darker blue plaid. Catra had refused to let Adora buy her a cowboy hat but she did accept the boots, which she knew she looked good in. 

Catra watched Adora look at her, while she thought she hadn’t been caught and took some satisfaction in the sun kissed colour that came to her cheeks. 

“Ready?” Catra asked, making a show of turning to Adora rather than watching her from the corner of her eyes. Adora’s eyes skited away from her and Catra tried to hide her smile. 

“Ready. There’s someone I want you to meet,” Adora said looking back at Catra as she grabbed their picnic basket and Catra picked up her camera. Finn took her hand and Adora’s before they headed out towards the stables. 

Catra wasn’t enjoying the nervous butterflies in her stomach as they approached the beasts they were going to be riding for the day. 

#

Catra tried to stay out of Adora’s way while she picked and prepared two horses and a miniature pony for Finn. The pony was a warm honey colour with a golden mane and Catra’s horse was Grey with darker grey on her butt. According to Adora Molly was a great starter horse and very gentle. 

Catra really had no idea what she was doing. She had never ridden a horse before and had no clue how to interact with one. They were so big and intimidating. Catra was holding herself tightly with her arms crossed as Adora prepared her own horse for riding. 

Adora’s horse was big, much bigger than Catra’s, and white, with a orange mane. Catra was glad she wasn’t riding that one, she might fall off and die.  

Catra helped Finn onto their miniature pony when they were ready and they were riding confidently around the small yard. Catra wasn’t convinced that the pony was listening to any direction Finn was giving, but rather just doing what it wanted. Finn seemed fine with it as they stopped to look at random things around the yard. They bonded. 

Catra looked away from Finn and back to Adora. She clearly loved these creatures as her face relaxed into the same look of affection she gave Finn. It was a breath of fresh air to see her at ease after she had been stressed about the flight. Catra wasn’t opposed to cuddles on their flight home, but she hated how scared and ashamed Adora looked when she needed help.  

Catra turned back to the beast before her and decided to face her own fears. She reached up to touch the nose of her horse like she saw Adora doing with hers. The horse blew air through its nose and Catra yanked her hand away with a small startled sound. 

Catra heard Adora’s soft chuckle and her cheeks coloured as she glared at the horse. She was embarrassed to realise she had fluffed her tail and yanked it through her hand to flatten the fur. She knew it wasn’t the animals fault that she was scared but she was stubborn and she didn’t want to give in to her fear. 

“Everything okay?” Adora asked curiously as she came closer and Catra huffed. 

“Yeah, I’m fine,” Catra said a little unconvincingly. The irony of using Adora’s words back at her was not lost on her but Adora took a different approach to comfort than Catra. 

“Horses are good at reading emotion. So, if you are nervous, they will be nervous,” Adora explained as she reached out and rubbed her hand confidently over the horse’s cheek and received no objection. Adora was much closer to the height of this horse, so she had no reason to fear being crushed.  

The wild cackling of Adora’s child momentarily distracted her as the miniature pony ran around in circles. The small smile on Adora’s face made a warmth spread through her chest. 

Catra appreciated Adora taking the route of explaining without blame instead of her own method of ‘it's okay to feel the way you feel’. Catra knew it was okay that she was scared, but she hated feeling that way. Adora explaining made her feel like it was okay to be scared without saying it. It gave her the information she needed to make her own decision. Catra knew, if she told Adora that she didn’t want to ride the horse, Adora would find her something else to do. But Catra wanted to understand Adora’s love for these animals, and that’s what made her explain herself.     

“I guess… I am nervous,” she conceded, and Adora nodded with a reassuring smile. Catra smiled back as a little fear slipped away. 

“It’s understandable. I can assure you, they are gentle giants, as long as you don’t mess with them,” Adora said and Catra nodded. She took a breath and tried to relax her rigid stance before she tried to pet the horse again. This time it allowed her to rub its soft velvety nose. Adora smiled proudly. 

“They are really big,” Catra tried to explain her anxiety and Adora looked down at her with a small playful smile.

“Unfortunately, I think you are slightly too big for a miniature pony,” Adora said and Catra scoffed, but she couldn’t keep the smile from her face at her jab. “You are welcome to saddle up with me, if you prefer not to face it alone,” Adora offered casually and Catra felt her cheeks colour. She really wanted that, but after all that cuddling on the plane, was she being greedy to ask to hold Adora in return? 

“That would be nice actually, thank you” Catra decided selfishly and Adora nodded. 

“No trouble, I’ll change Swiftwind’s saddle, he's big enough for two riders,” Adora said and Catra blinked. She had a weird tickling memory in the back of her head. The night Adora was intoxicated flashed into her mind. Adora crouched in her tight skirt on her living room floor as she lamented to Swifty “When did you get so small?!” Suddenly her confusing words made sense and Catra huffed a laugh.

“Swiftwind is a horse too?” Catra asked and Adora chuckled softly, the sound sending goosebumps racing across her skin. Catra needed to get a grip before she embarrassed herself.

“Ah, yes. Finn met Swiftwind when they were two and when we got Swifty they refused to call them anything else, so it stuck,” Adora said, scratching Swiftwind’s shoulder and he leaned into it like a big dog.  

“That makes a lot of sense why your dog is named like a racehorse,” Catra said playfully and Adora smiled.

“Yes, well it doesn’t end there. Swift Wind was actually a man. He was a friend of my fathers. He used to own this ranch and apparently always said he would be reborn as a horse. The day he died Swiftwind was born. Swift Wind was a spiritual man who had millions of stories to tell, so father believed he was reborn into his true form,” Adora said gently rubbing the nose of the horse. “He left the ranch to father and Swiftwind has been spoiled with endless land to roam and the best food money can buy, but all the horses are treated the same,” Adora said with a shrug. Catra was a little shocked. When Juliet had said they got the ranch as a gift, she didn’t think it was from a will. Catra felt a little guilty for thinking it seemed like a ridiculous gift. 

“That’s really sweet,” Catra said, watching Adora closely. 

“Yes. I’ll get the other saddle, we’ll be off soon,” Adora said walking back towards the barn quickly.  

Adora looked embarrassed but Catra wasn’t sure which part embarrassed her. Maybe her fathers beliefs that a horse was once a man or the large inheritance that fell to Adora’s shoulders after her father had passed. Catra didn’t think she had anything to be embarrassed about but maybe she missed something. 

#

Swiftwind was tall, so Catra couldn’t quite reach the stirrup without using her claws. She tried to get up on her own for a few minutes while Adora failed to hide her smile at her adorableness but eventually she huffed and asked for help. 

Adora didn’t keep Catra waiting and stepped forward immediately to put her hands on Catra’s hips. Catra gasped right before she squeaked as Adora lifted her up onto the saddle in one fluid movement. The shock on Catra’s face made Adora grateful for all the hours she had spent at the gym after she retired from ballet. 

“Swing your leg over,” Adora instructed when Catra didn’t move from her side saddle position as she blinked down at Adora. She snapped out of her daze quickly and followed Adora’s instructions, settling into the saddle and wiggling to get comfortable. 

Adora helped Catra put her feet into the stirrup to stabilise her and grabbed Swiftwind’s and Finn’s miniature pony, Mango’s, rein to lead them out of the tacking yard. 

Mango was a grumpy old girl, but she could follow a trail easily and where Adora was taking them was thankfully along the trail. 

Finn was giggling and looking around as Adora got them to the edge of the homestead and let Mango take the lead down the path. 

She hadn’t really considered that helping Catra onto the horse first meant that Adora would need to sit behind her. Adora swung herself up into the saddle behind her and took the reins which caused her to wrap her arms around Catra’s smaller frame to lead Swiftwind onto the trail after Mango.

Catra was holding onto the front of the saddle since there wasn’t much to hold onto in that spot. Adora really should have had Catra sit behind her so Catra could hold onto her, but this way Catra could see more and Adora could stop her falling if she lost her balance in the saddle. 

Catra was ridged in her seat and not moving with Swiftwind at all as he followed after the tiny pony. 

“Relax your spine a little and try to move with Swiftwind,” Adora instructed softly to Catra and heard her grumbling something. 

“It will feel better, otherwise you might hurt yourself,” Adora continued. “You can lean back into me if it helps,” Adora offered, but that was a bad idea and Adora knew it as soon as Catra leaned back into her.  

If Adora wanted to, she was within reach to kiss Catra’s cute little ears. Not that Adora would, because that would be wildly inappropriate, but she could, they were right there. 

Catra was still stiff around her hips, not rocking with the motion and Adora wanted to make this experience a good one for her. 

“Can I show you the motion?” Adora asked, her voice soft because of how close she was to Catra’s ears. 

“Am I not doing it?” Catra asked, sounding a little defensive and Adora chuckled. 

“Not quite,” Adora whispered and Catra’s tail whipped around wildly for a moment before she grumbled her reply. 

“Fine, show me,” Catra relented and Adora smiled. 

“Take these,” Adora said, offering her the reins as she moved them to one hand. 

“What!? No, I’m not driving,” Catra resisted and Adora tried to hide her grin. 

“Swiftwind doesn’t need instruction to follow the path, you just have to hold the reins loosely and he’ll do the rest,” Adora assured and Catra’s ears pinned back for a moment before she took the reins from Adora’s hand. 

Adora moved her hands to Catra’s hips and Catra wiggled under her palms slightly before Adora encouraged her to rock her hips and follow the rhythm of Swiftwind’s body. Catra’s body moved like water and flexibility wasn’t a problem, so Adora just needed to show her what to do. After a few minutes of Adora guiding her, Catra kept the rhythm on her own and Adora retook the reins from Catra’s hands. 

“Better?” Adora asked gently and Catra squeaked out something that sounded affirmative. Adora smiled softly and settled comfortably back into the saddle. She’d get the hang of it. 

They continued their ride in silence before Adora noticed Catra had been holding the saddle tightly with her claws. Adora kept the reins in one hand before she put her right arm around Catra’s waist to hold her more firmly against her. 

“You won't fall,” Adora assured Catra and she laughed softly before she mumbled something Adora couldn’t catch on the wind. 

Finn's little pony was walking up ahead but Finn kept looking back over their shoulder to check they were still following. Adora smiled at Finn. It wouldn’t be much longer and they would reach the lake. 

Adora had a picnic packed for their arrival and it was strapped to the back of Swiftwind. She was looking forward to seeing Finn and Catra’s reactions to the man-made lake and all the waterbirds that lived there now. 

“Is it much further?” Catra asked, glancing over her shoulder at Adora. Catra looked flushed and Adora wished she had let her buy her a hat so she wouldn’t get sunburnt. 

“It won't be much longer. I’ve got some cold water for when we stop,” Adora said and Catra nodded before she faced forward again and felt more of her weight settle back into her. 

It felt good to have Catra in her arms like this, but it was fleeting and Adora had to remind herself that it wasn’t going to last. When they stopped Adora couldn’t touch Ca

tra like this. She was only helping Catra with her fear and hopefully making a bad experience better, but that didn’t mean she couldn’t enjoy holding her while she could. 

When they arrived at the lake Adora helped Finn and Catra off so the horses could be tied to a tree with their own treat. She led Finn and Catra through the trees towards the lake. Adora had the picnic basket in one hand and Finn’s hand in her other to help them down the slope towards the edge of the water. 

When they cleared the treeline to the lake, Catra gasped and Adora couldn’t help but look at her. Catra had a look of wonder as the light that reflected off the lake sparkled in her eyes and Adora couldn’t look away. 

“DUCKS!” Finn yelled and pointed, pulling on Adora’s arm and dragging her attention away from Catra to follow them towards the clearing by the water. 

Adora put the blanket and basket down as Finn ran towards the water's edge to look at the feathery friends that seemed unsure of them. 

Adora spread out the blanket and Catra crouched to unpack the basket. 

“I’ll do this, you stop Finn from getting in the water,” Catra said looking up at Adora playfully and she smiled.

“That won't happen,” Adora said before looking back at her child to see them trying to take their boots off. “I stand corrected.” Adora walked towards the waters edge while Catra laughed “Finny, we aren’t swimming today” Adora cautioned and they pouted. 

“Why not?” Finn asked and Adora helped them put their half off boots back on. 

“Lots of animals live here and we don’t want to disturb them,” Adora said smiling at Finn and they continued to pout but nodded their head. 

“Lets have some lunch then you can play, are you hungry?” Adora asked and Finn grinned and nodded again. Adora stood up as Finn ran over to the blanket and flopped into Catra’s arms. She giggled and nuzzled Finn while Adora walked back to join them.

Adora really shouldn’t get used to this, she had to remind herself how temporary it all was. She just hoped Catra didn’t break Finn’s heart when she had to leave.

 
#

The sun was warm and Adora found herself enjoying laying around and ignoring all her problems. It helped that Finn was snuggled up in the sun beside her with their little head on her stomach. The picnic blanket wasn’t large, so although Catra wasn’t touching her, she wasn’t far. When the wind rushed through the trees Adora could feel the tickle of her hair against her elbow as she rested her head back against her hands. 

She could certainly get used to this. She felt Catra’s tail flick against her and cracked one of her eyes open to watch as Catra rolled onto her stomach to warm her back in the dappled light that came through the canopy of the trees. 

Adora let out a soft sigh as she felt Finn stirring from their nap. They slipped off Adora’s stomach to crawl over to Catra and lay in the larger sunspot that Catra’s back was in. Adora smiled and stretched, making a satisfied sound as her muscles relaxed. 

Adora hadn’t napped like her companions had, but she did feel rested and relaxed. She wasn’t sure what it was, the sun, the fresh air, maybe the water? Or maybe it was because all her work and business troubles were thousands of miles away. 

She glanced over at Catra as she saw Catra’s ear twitching repeatedly as a butterfly tried to land on it. Adora lifted her hand and gently shooed the butterfly away and Catra’s ear returned to its relaxed position. 

Finn was moving around again. Adora could hear the rustling of paper and looked at the picnic basket. Finn agreed to nap on the condition that they got to eat their dessert when they woke up. 

They had one of the pastries in their hand and Adora sat up so they knew she was awake. Finn looked at her like they had been caught and Adora smiled. 

“A deal’s a deal,” Adora said and Finn grinned before they wandered over to the water's edge to look sleepily at the birds. Some of the ducks started to show interest in Finn as they stood there and swam towards the bank. 

Adora heard Catra make a soft noise before she started to stretch and looked around for Finn. Adora nodded towards the water and Catra smiled. 

Catra rubbed her face to wake herself up before she grabbed her camera and pushed herself off the blanket. Adora hadn’t noticed how late in the afternoon it was until she saw the way the sky was turning purple as the clouds went pink as the sun approached the horizon. That explained why the shade under the trees was starting to cool. 

Adora pushed her body into motion as she stood and walked closer to where Catra was taking photos of Finn and the collection of ducks that had gathered around them. Adora felt the need to talk to Catra and any subject would do. She just wanted to know her better. 

“Do you ever take self portraits?” Adora asked curiously as Catra took a third photo of Finn with the ducks. Catra turned to Adora and rewarded her efforts with a smile.

“I do sometimes,” Catra said with a shrug, and Adora nodded. She didn’t know much about photography, so she wasn’t sure how to proceed with the conversation. 

“Why don’t you take more?” She asked and Catra looked back at Finn. 

“Because, I know who I am. Photos of myself feel more like milestones than real memories. These photos are to help me remember moments that I don’t want to forget,” Catra said and Adora smiled. Adora was happy that Catra wanted to remember her time with them when she was gone.

Catra’s face became obscured by the camera as she snapped a photo of Adora. Adora blinked at her before she felt her cheeks heat. She wasn’t ready to be photographed and she was sure her hair was a mess from laying on the ground. 

“What was that for?” Adora asked, with a confused frown. Catra smiled and shrugged casually. Her relaxed demeanour wasn’t as convincing this time, her body moving more rigidly.  

“It's a nice smile, you should use it more often,” Catra said and Adora felt her cheeks burn even hotter. Adora looked back to Finn who had acquired more duck friends once they dropped their pastry on the ground. Finn’s ears flicked back as they looked nervous being outnumbered and Adora walked forward to scare the ducks away from them. 

“Off you go ducks,” Adora said calmly so Finn wouldn’t get more scared. They reached up for her as she got closer and Adora lifted them into her arms. She turned back towards Catra when she heard the click of her camera. Adora rolled her eyes as she approached Catra.

“I dropped my pastry,” Finn explained in a sad whisper like Adora didn’t see them do it.

“I know, we’ll get you another one,” Adora offered as she rubbed their back and they nodded. “You’re going to waste all your film,” Adora said to Catra when she was close enough. Catra’s laugh was high pitched and playful. 

“I’m using it, not wasting it,” she said with conviction and Adora couldn’t really argue with that. If Adora had the chance she would want something to remember their time together too. 

#

They packed up the picnic and headed back towards the homestead when the sun started to set. Finn’s pony walked on its own behind Swiftwind while Catra held Finn in her arms. 

The rhythmic rocking and warmth of Adora at her back was doing unexpected things to Catra. She couldn’t seem to hold herself back any longer as her head bobbed to stay upright. She adjusted Finn in her arms and made a disgruntled noise as she tried to keep herself awake. One of Adora’s arms wrapped around Catra and Finn to hold them steady on the horse as Catra’s head bobbed again and her eyelids felt heavy. The protective and supportive arm around her did nothing to help her wake up and only lulled her further into sleep. 

Catra noticed maybe a little late that she was purring as Finn’s soft purr kicked to life against her. Catra wrapped her arms tighter around Finn to keep them safe but she knew Adora had them, she had them both. 

Catra had napped at the lake but despite that, she was ready to sleep. Adora’s warmth was so close and the chill of the setting sun wasn't helping. Finn took after their mother and were equally toasty to cuddle as they rag-dolled in her arms. Catra felt her ears wiggle and twitch before she heard a soft chuckle from Adora. 
“You can nap if you want to. I’ll keep you on the horse,” Adora said into her hair and Catra shivered at the warm breath at the back of her ear. Adora had apparently been watching Catra’s failing attempt to stay awake. 

“I can’t. I don’t want to drop Finn,” Catra said gently and rested her head on top of Finn’s wild hair. Adora’s arm around them both tightened and pulled Catra closer against her own body. Catra felt heat flood her face as she was unable to stop herself from purring louder. 

“You won't drop them, I’ve got you,” 

“Are you sure?”

“Promise.”

“Okay, but if I do anything embarrassing you have to wake me up,” Catra said, turning her body to look over her shoulder at Adora. That was a mistake, she was so close as she looked down at Catra with soft sparkling blue eyes. Catra bit her lip to stop herself from saying anything and Adora gave her a small smile. 

“I can’t promise that, I’m sorry,”

“Why not?” Catra asked, her ears flicking back. 

“Because, things you think are embarrassing, are cute,”

“I’m not cute!” Catra scoffed and Adora’s small smile grew larger. 

“Agree to disagree,” Adora said and Catra forced herself to face forward again. She couldn’t take the close proximity any longer or she was going to kiss her boss’s stupid face. 

“Fine,” Catra said reluctantly. Adora wrapped her other arm around them to hold them both. She kept the reins slack to let Swiftwind guide them home. Catra couldn’t hold back from sleeping any longer, the comfort of Adora’s arms around her was too much so she gave in to the call.  

#

Finn didn’t wake when they returned to the homestead they were staying in, so Catra made herself and Adora a light dinner. Adora went to do whatever it took to take care of the horses while Catra cooked. When she returned they ate dinner together and Catra put a serving in the fridge in case Finn woke up hungry later. 

Adora offered to do the dishes from dinner while Catra went to shower and change into her pyjamas. Catra was tired from so much sun and ready for bed, so she agreed and went to shower. 

Once she was done showering, Adora took her turn in the family sized bathroom while Catra went about brushing her hair and getting ready for bed.  

Catra tried to sleep, but she had napped a lot that day, so all she could do was toss and turn. The house smelt strange and that made it hard to relax. Her room didn’t smell like Finn or Adora at all, and she had grown used to their lingering scent in her space back home. 

Home.

Catra had been calling the penthouse home for weeks, like she really lived there and it wasn’t seven months away from disappearing. This line of thinking wasn’t helping her sleep. 

Catra got up, going to the living room to find the blanket Adora had used to wrap around Finn when they got back from their ride. Catra held the soft fabric to her nose and the mixed scents helped to calm her. 

The scratching sound of wood against wood drew her attention towards the kitchen. The soft outline of Adora and the smaller outline of Finn were bathed in the cool light from inside the fridge. Adora was heating up Finn’s dinner for them and neither had noticed Catra yet. 

Catra could see how tired Adora was by the way she held her body, but she was smiling as Finn whispered softly about horses to her. Catra felt like she was intruding on a private moment, and she really didn’t want to explain why she came out to get another blanket when she had a million on her bed. So, instead of breaking the spell the Greys were under, she scurried back into her room silently and closed her door with a click. 

Catra listened at the door until she was satisfied that she wasn’t spotted before she quickly burrowed under her blankets with the new bundle cuddled under her nose. Scents were important to Magicats, and Catra wasn’t embarrassed by her nature to be surrounded by scents that felt safe. Even if she wasn’t embarrassed, she still knew how it looked to other species, and she didn’t want to explain herself. She just wanted to sleep.  

Catra must have slept because she woke to a sleepy kitten attempting to rouse her. They had plans for a birthday breakfast and to go for another ride before they left. Catra groaned softly and glanced at the time as she lifted her blanket for Finn. Finn giggled and climbed under even though she knew Finn had been sent to wake her. Finn was always willing to cuddle. 

Seven was too early on a Sunday morning, especially after she couldn’t sleep much in the strange bed. Catra wrapped her arms around Finn and they purred as they nuzzled her. Catra was nodding off again when she heard Adora’s footsteps outside the door. 

“Finn,” Adora’s fond but exasperated voice pulled Catra from her attempt to go back to sleep. 

“Hi Mama,” Finn giggled, but Catra kept her eyes closed.

“Time to get up,” Adora said gently. Adora didn’t enter Catra’s temporary room. Even at the penthouse Adora was careful to draw a line at her door so she had her privacy. 

“No,” Catra grumbled and pulled the blanket over their heads. Finn giggled as they wiggled around, their blue eyes catching the slither of soft morning light coming from the gap in the blankets. Catra smiled at them, their ears wiggling under the light sheet that covered them. 

“I made breakfast,” Adora said, her voice a little louder. Finn looked at Catra for guidance, they knew they were playing a game, but they didn’t know when they were meant to give in. 

“I do like breakfast,” Catra whispered to Finn and they giggled.

“It’s birthday pancakes,” Finn chirped.

“Aw, can I have some if it isn’t my birthday?” Catra asked, dramatically.

“Yes, silly,” Finn giggled.

“Who’s birthday is it?” Catra asked and Finn grinned.

“Mine was on Thursday,” They said proudly. They had dinner with their large family that night to celebrate and returned home with many gifts. 

“Ohh, you’re right,” Catra agreed like she had forgotten.

“I’m getting hot,” Finn said, wiggling their ears. 

“Me too, let's go,” Catra said, flipping back the sheet to see Adora smiling at them both from the doorway. Catra felt her cheeks warm at the softness of Adora’s eyes but Finn quickly jumped from the bed and distracted her. 

“Birthday Pancakes!” Finn cheered and ran down the hallway. 

“I wish I had that type of energy in the morning,” Catra grumbled, pushing the blankets back to swing her bare legs off the bed and stand.

“I wish I had that type of energy any time of the day,” Adora agreed and Catra followed her into the kitchen. Adora had made a big stack of chocolate chip pancakes and five candles were sticking out of the top of the stack. 

They sat down to sing Happy Birthday to Finn and once they ate breakfast Finn got to open their gifts. Finn might have gotten a trip as a gift for their birthday, but there was no way Adora or Catra could resist getting them something to open that morning. 

Adora bought them new boots, since they were growing out of the ones they had. The boots were white with gold details and Finn loved them. Catra’s gift was smaller; a cowboy style sheriffs badge and a toy gun. Catra was relieved when Adora firmly told Finn not to point the toy at the horses, because it would scare them and Finn nodded in understanding. 

Adora was washing dishes after breakfast while Catra helped Finn put on their new outfit and accessories. Catra’s personal phone rang on the table and she quickly finished helping Finn. Adora looked up from the dishes curiously when Catra picked up her phone.

 
Catra didn’t know why she felt the need to tell Adora who was calling her, but the fact that she cared was nice. 

“It’s my mum, I’ll be right back,” Catra said and Adora nodded. 

“Sure, take your time,” Adora said, going back to the dishes. Catra walked down the hall to her room. She needed to change so they could go out and she could do both at once. 

“Hi Mama,” Catra answered as she pulled some clothes out of her bag. She would be wearing protective stuff over the top so the jeans and t-shirt would be fine.

“Hi sweet pea, how are you?” C’yra asked, her voice light and playful.

“I’m good, how are you?” Catra asked, changing out of her shorts and pulling the jeans up her legs. 

“I’m good. It’s been a nice relaxing weekend, I’ve got lots of reading done,” C’yra said and Catra rolled her eyes, she knew the type of reading her mum enjoyed. She would have spent the whole weekend reading the new gossip magazine from cover to cover. 

“Oh yeah, anything interesting?” Catra asked. Her mum would tell her either way, so she might as well ask. 

“Yes, actually. That’s why I called. Do you have a registry somewhere?” C’yra asked, her voice filled with mischievous humour. Catra paused with her t-shirt half over her head. 

“A what?” Catra asked curiously. 

“A registry, for gifts. You know, for the wedding,” C’yra’s voice was strained in her attempt to hold back her laugh. Catra was even more confused. 

“What are you talking about? What wedding?” 

“Your wedding, haven’t you seen the papers? You’re famous,” C’yra said with a laugh and Catra frowned. 

“You know I never read that stuff. What are you talking about?”

“Well, according to UGossip, you are Ms Grey’s wife. You looked beautiful in that gold suit, sweetie, so mature. I wouldn’t have had the cutouts at the waist, but it looked lovely on you,” C’yra gushed. 

Catra was standing in her room listening to her mum talk, frozen and without a shirt. She wasn’t following at all. She understood this was about the Gala because of the mention of the expensive suit she was wearing. She needed a visual aid to help her understand what was going on. She sighed and knew she would need to do a video call to see what her mum was talking about. She hoped she didn’t ask too many questions about where she was. 

“Hang on mama, I need you to show me what you are talking about,” Catra said, grabbing her t-shirt and pulling it on quickly before she started the call. The video started and C’yra was too close to the camera for a moment, papers rustled before she sat back on her couch. 

“It’s so good to see your face, you should come over for dinner one night, bring Ms Grey and Finn” Catra tried not to roll her eyes now that her mum could see her but she had tried this many times already. Her mum was desperate to meet Adora and especially Finn. 

“Show me what you are talking about, please,” 

“Where are you? Is that your dorm? It looks so rustic,” 

“Uh…no, it was Finn’s birthday this week and they wanted to go horseback riding…so we are there now. I’ll be back in Brightmoon later tonight,”

“Ooo, horseback riding. So romantic,” C’yra said wistfully and Catra felt her cheeks warm. 

“It's not like that mama,” Catra defended and C’yra tittered like she didn’t believe a word she said. 

“Of course, my mistake, you just look so happy in the picture,” C’yra said, waving the magazine around in her other hand but still not showing Catra. 

“Show me, please,” Catra said, getting frustrated at how distracted her mum was. Catra was keeping Finn and Adora waiting. 

“Oh, right,” C’yra said, flashing the image of Catra and Adora running from the Gala past the reporters that had flooded the entrance. There was an article to go with it but Catra couldn’t read any of the words. “See, you look so happy, petal,” C’yra said, her face coming back into the camera view as she looked at the picture herself. 

“I only went to the Gala with her because her secretary couldn’t go, how does that make me her wife?” Catra asked, feeling her cheeks burn again. 

“Oh, well, according to the article. Ms Grey started an argument with her ex-fiancee. That supermodel, what's her name? She’s an Eclipse…”

“Melody?” Catra supplied reluctantly. Catra remembered starting that fight, not Adora. Catra also vaguely remembered not denying Adora was her wife. This was Catra’s fault, but Adora was taking the blame for it. 

“That’s it! But you know what the Eclipses are like, always protecting their precious image,” C’yra said, rolling her eyes like Catra had any idea what she was talking about. But the name stuck in her memory, Eclipse…like Eclipse News? Catra would have asked her mum but she heard a knock through the phone. 

“Oh, I’m sorry sweetie, the repairman is here. I have to go. I love you so so much, bring your ‘friend’ over for dinner sometime soon, okay?” C’yra said quickly and blew kisses at the camera. 

“Love you too mama,” Catra said quickly before the call ended. Catra sighed and threw her phone onto her bed before she frowned at it. 

That was a lot of information her mum just gave her. Adora couldn’t know about this, surely she would have said something to Catra. 

This was embarrassing. 

Catra’s image wouldn’t be hurt if people thought she was married to a billionaire but Adora’s would be damaged if people thought she was with someone like her. Adora didn’t need people to think she committed to another gold digger, and that’s all anyone would see with Catra’s financial struggles.

I need to tell Adora and she can fix this. She has to tell the papers that they are wrong. 

Chapter Text

Adora finished the dishes while Finn ran around the living room with their new toys pretending to shoot their toy gun at the ceiling fan. They were already excited to get back out to the horses and spend the most time they could with them before they had to return home. 

Adora was trying to keep busy to avoid thinking about the flight back. She barely remembered the flight here but she had small pockets of either memories or dreams and she hoped they were just dreams. Catra was acting normal since the flight so that supported her theory. She wouldn’t act so comfortable around Adora if she had been inappropriate. 

The click of Catra’s riding boots on the solid wood floors captured Adora’s attention as she came back into the room. Her expression was tight after her conversation with her mother and Adora could relate. Finn didn’t waste any time running up to her and pretending to shoot her with their gun. Catra put on a show of pretending to die by falling dramatically on the couch and Finn giggled at her theatrics. 

Adora wanted to check on Catra, not just because she'd been shot, but to ask if everything was alright with her mum. That felt like overstepping. They were friends but Adora was her employer and she didn’t want to invade Catra’s privacy. She had to wait and if Catra wanted to tell her then she would. 

The stable was clean, but smelled strongly of horses, hay and leather. Adora loved the smell. It reminded her of her childhood and simpler times. Before the accident and everything had to change. 

“Would you like to try riding Molly today?” Adora asked, rubbing Molly's long face as she stood in her stall and watched them curiously. Molly was gentle so if Catra was up to the task Molly would be sweet to her.  

Adora's eyes followed the movement as Catra sank her fangs into her lower lip to consider Adora’s offer. She realised her action quickly and looked back to Catra’s down turned lashes while she waited. She didn’t want to look somewhere less appropriate, especially after their close proximity yesterday. Adora would happily ride with Catra again, but having her so close was far too enjoyable, which meant she had to keep her distance. She couldn’t slip and make Catra more uncomfortable than she already was today.  

“It’s only a short ride, so if you change your mind, we can always come back,” Adora reassured and Catra nodded her agreement. 

“Okay. Let's do it,” she said with a determined glint in her eyes. Adora tried to hide the excitement that swelled inside her. Catra was giving horses the chance to win her affection and it was more than she had hoped. She shouldn’t be surprised though because Catra was stronger than she looked and in Adora's experience, she didn't back down from a challenge easily. So, she brought Molly out to the tacking yard. 

Catra didn’t look as nervous about the horses this time and she hoped their ride yesterday had helped. Adora was already proud of her, Melody didn’t give horses half the chance that Catra was giving them. Melody thought they were filthy and gross. She wouldn’t even get near them and complained about the heat the whole time. Adora wanted to be able to share something she loved with her, but her relationship with Catra was different. Adora expected too much from romantic relationships, but she wasn’t going to make the same mistake with her friendship with Catra. 

Catra pet Molly’s nose confidently while Adora went about putting on her saddle. Adora could hear Catra whispering to the mare listening closely to every word she said. Adora was disappointed that she couldn’t hear what Catra was saying to her new dappled friend but whatever it was, it looked like a pep talk for both of them. 

Molly was significantly shorter than Swiftwind, so Catra was able to swing herself into the saddle after her third attempt and she made a triumphant trilling noise before her face flushed. 

“Well done,” Adora praised and held Catra’s ankle gently as she made sure Catra’s feet were secure in the stirrups and she had a good handle on the reins. 

Adora gave her instructions to get Molly walking, how to stop and how to turn. Catra listened closely and tried a few moves around the tack yard, walking in circles while Molly got used to her instructions.

 
“There you go! You’re a pro,” Adora encouraged and Catra’s smile  in the early morning light almost took her breath away. She was beautiful, and her excited smile was easily one of Adora’s favourites. 

Swiftwind still got to wear the double saddle, just in case Catra or Finn needed her and they headed out on a short trail that would take a couple of hours before looping back to the homestead. 

The Crimson planes were beautiful this time of year and Adora let her eyes roam around the red sand and blossoming plants. It was lush and green of newly sprouted plants made her shoulders relax as she took a deep breath of the fresh warm air. The bright red sand contrasted against all the bright green shoots and made each look like tiny beacons in the sunlight.

Swiftwind trailed behind Mango and Molly, stopping or slowing down when Molly and Catra paused to take photos. No words needed to be said between them as they enjoyed the quiet calm of the wild planes. The same could not be said for Finn as they trailed on ahead, chatting endlessly to Mango as they strutted along in front as the horses walked lazily behind her. 

Adora watched the passing scenery as she tried to commit it all to memory. Then she could think of it when they returned home to the grey of city life. Her eyes moved back to Catra every so often. Watching her new experiences was quickly becoming her favourite pass time. Even now she was thinking about what else she could show her to see that wide eyed awe on her face. 

“I didn’t expect so much green out here,” Catra whispered, her voice soft as she twisted on her saddle to look over her shoulder at her. Adora smiled and nodded. 

“We had a good wet season,” Adora said, matching her volume so as not to disturb the peace. The Crimson Planes were usually hot, dry and dusty, but when the rain came, everything erupted into colour. It was still hot and dry but they were visiting at the perfect time. The wet season finished a few weeks ago and everything was blooming. 

“It’s not usually like this?” Catra asked and Adora shook her head. She clicked her tongue and Swiftwind sped up, walking on the trail beside Molly to make it easier to talk. 

“Only once a year usually,” Adora said with a shrug, “Most of the plants wait for the rain before they bloom and this place explodes after a little water,” Adora said and Catra smiled.

“That sounds really magical,” Catra said and Adora nodded as she let out a relaxed breath as she looked out over the hills filled with green shrubs and bright blue salt bushes. She loved it out here, the quiet, the simplicity. One day, she wouldn’t mind spending more time here. 

Adora heard the soft click of Catra’s camera but it was so common over the weekend she almost didn’t register it. She glanced over to see Catra pull her camera down, fiddling with the settings and wondered what she wanted to remember here.

Catra cleared her throat and shifted nervously in the saddle. They had started to loop back towards the ranch and soon they would be back in the car and then in the air. Adora tried not to think about that. 

“Um…” Catra started and fiddled with her camera again before she put the strap over her shoulder and took a deep breath. “I spoke to my mum before we left,”

“Hmm?” Adora hummed, she was relieved. She really hoped that she could help, but even if she couldn’t, she liked that Catra was comfortable about it with her. 

“She was telling me about what's been in the papers lately,” Catra said and Adora watched her curiously as her ears twitched and her tail wrapped around her leg. That didn’t explain what had upset Catra, but since she had brought it up it was alright to ask questions.  

“Is that what troubled you?” Adora asked. Catra looked surprised and Adora felt a little self-conscious. She was probably watching Catra too closely so she pretended that something else caught her eye. “I mean, you seemed stressed when you came back from your call, did she say something?” Adora tried to correct awkwardly but wasn’t sure if she made it any better. 

“Yeah…she said everyone was reporting on the Gala,” Catra said, as she wiggled in the saddle again. 

“Ah, yes,” Adora said, her stomach twisting at the thought of all the lies that had been reported about her from that event alone. She knew who was to blame for it all, but there wasn’t much she could do to stop them. 

“How they think I’m your wife…” Catra specified and Adora’s eyebrows raised in surprise. She wasn’t expecting that lie to be the one Catra mentioned. She thought it would be the one about starting a fight, or maybe Melody’s crystal clean image. 

“Oh…” Adora started slowly, unsure what to say. “Netossa, my PR person, told me about that. I’m sorry you got caught up in all this. They’ll get bored soon I’m sure.” Adora reassured but she couldn't begin to guess what the media would latch onto next. Adora definitely didn’t see the appeal of reporting on her dating life. 

Or lack thereof. 

“You don’t mind them lying about you?” Catra asked, looking at Adora’s face closely and she had to look away. She set her eyes on the horizon as she took a deep breath to calm her mind. What could she say that would put Catra at ease?

“No, they lie about me all the time so I’ve gotten used to it. The people close to me know the truth,” Adora had to believe that was true. Adora’s family knew the truth, even if Angella teased her about it. Her friends knew the truth, and Catra knew. No one else mattered. 

Catra nodded slowly. 

“That’s true. You poor thing, I’d make a terrible wife,” Catra joked as her ears flicked backwards slightly, was that discomfort or shame? Catra’s emotional range was larger than Finn’s due to their ages so Adora had to admit that the nuance of similar emotional expressions could easily slip past her understanding. Either way, her words had not been comforting like the had hoped. 

“I’ve had worse wives in the past,” Adora joked along with her. “Mermista for example. They thought we were together after my very public breakup and I’m sure you won't be surprised to know, Mermista is not that friendly with pompous rich people,” Adora said, frowning sympathetically as she recalled some of Mermista’s biting retorts. 

“I’ve noticed,” Catra said, her voice sounding fond. Adora felt her stomach swoop uncomfortably with an unknown emotion. 

“The press had a field day with quotes from her that year, she's learned to hold her tongue since then,” Adora said, trying to smooth the frown pinching at her forehead.

“She's pretty protective,” Catra agreed and Adora tried not to cringe. She could see the appeal of someone like Mermista and she couldn’t blame Catra. For years, Mermista had worked for her, and her father before that. She was the person in her employment who she would consider a friend after Catra. Mermista was beautiful, smart and funny in her own way. Protectiveness was one of her many shining qualities. She knew Mermista was wonderful, so why was it so hard to tell Catra that?

“She is and it helped a lot at the time,” Adora agreed, trying to keep the strange uncomfortable feeling in her chest from lacing her words. 

“I’m glad she could support you. Do you really not mind the articles?” Catra asked, looking down at her hands as she twisted the reins around her fingers. Adora wanted to alleviate her stress, having lies told about her wasn’t nice.

“I do care, but what can I do? They aren’t going to stop, but I can make a statement if it would make you more comfortable,” Adora offered. Netossa usually stopped her statements about gossip because it would only give attention to the lies, but if it made Catra worry then she would do it. 

“I’m not sure what the best option is. I don’t like lies, but I’m sure you and Netossa know best what needs to be done,” Catra said, her smile ticking up the left side of her mouth as she glanced over. It warmed Adora’s chest that Catra trusted her to do what she thought was best. She wasn’t sure the last time she felt that type of trust. After her conversation with Adam, Adora had been rattled. She worried how many people might have lost faith in her over the years. Thinking she was only out for herself and her own comfort. Was she only trying to make her life easier? Is that what she was doing with Catra? Was she just avoiding making herself uncomfortable by not talking to the press? Catra was upset and Adora had the power to fix it so it was her responsibility to do it. 

“I’ll talk to Netossa,” Adora assured. Adora hadn’t considered that these lies could hurt Catra in a way they never hurt Adora. They could ruin her romantic pursuits and make the world think she was a cheater. All because of a relationship they didn’t even have. Catra deserved better. Catra was young, intelligent and unattached. She had the whole world at her feet. She could be with anyone she chose and Adora wanted that for her. 

She did.  

“Thank you,” Catra nodded and Adora swallowed the guilty lump in her throat. She had made problems for Catra without even knowing it. What else had she missed?

“I’ll lead us back to the tacking yard,” Adora offered and turned to the path ahead. The homestead came back into view on the horizon and she clicked her tongue to get Swiftwind to trot ahead of Mango to lead them back.

#

The flight to Brightmoon was early in the evening and not ideal. They were ushered into the plane and it took off quickly. Adora took her medication and retired to the bedroom on her own. Leaving Finn and Catra the rest of the small plane to enjoy. 

Finn was full of energy after spending time at the ranch and talked about how much fun they had. It took time but eventually their energy started to fade even as they remained determined to stay awake for the whole flight.

When they were half way through the flight a soft sound came from the bedroom and caught Catra’s attention. She asked the hostesses to stay out of the room so Catra decided to check on Adora herself. 

“I’m going to check on your mum, can you stay here for me?” Catra asked Finn as they coloured in their drawing. They were doing their best to hold up their sleepy head but they were struggling as they nodded and blinked slowly. 

“Okay, give mama kisses for me,” Finn yawned as they laid their head on the table and tried to draw from the new angle. Catra cheeks heated at the suggestion, but ignored it and went to the bedroom door.  

She gently knocked and heard a soft call to enter. That confirmed Adora had woken up. Catra opened the door but didn’t turn on the lights as she closed it behind her. She blinked quickly to adjust to the dark room. She could see Adora laying half off the bed and blindly reaching in the dark for something. 

“Let me help,” Catra said and Adora groaned but flopped back onto the bed without argument. Catra picked up the pill bottle she found and sat on the edge of the bed. “You okay?” she asked softly. Some of Adora’s hair was laid over her cheek and Catra wanted to brush it away. 

“We’re still flying,” Adora rasped. 

“Yeah, we’re about half way,” Catra said and leaned back as Adora abruptly sat upright. 

“Finn?” She asked, looking around the room with unseeing eyes. Catra put her hand on Adora’s where it sat on the blankets and Adora’s attention moved to her hand even if she couldn’t see much. 

“They’re drawing and pretending they aren’t tired,” Catra whispered and Adora let out a relieved sigh. 

“Good. Thank you. I can have my pills every two hours. I think I knocked them off the table,” Adora said with a frown. Catra rattled the bottle in her hand and reached for the water bottle beside the bed.

“I’ve got them, and some water, do you want to take them now or wait to eat?” Catra asked gently and Adora was shaking her head before she even finished her question. 

“I’ll eat later,” Adora assured and Catra knew she meant breakfast. She didn’t love the idea of Adora taking medication without food but she wasn’t her doctor and when she read the bottle she confirmed it was fine. 

Catra helped Adora take her pills before closing the bottle of water and putting both on the side table away from the edge. Adora laid back on the bed and sighed. 

She wasn’t sure what to do, with Finn she would wait for them to fall asleep, but this wasn’t Finn. Adora was a grown woman who could go to sleep on her own. 

“Did you enjoy the weekend?” Adora asked sleepily, her eyes still closed as she reached her hand across the bed. Catra didn’t think twice before taking Adora’s hand. If she needed comfort Catra was happy to provide.

“I did. I enjoyed it a lot,” Catra assured and Adora made a soft ‘hmm’ in response. 

“I’m sorry about the articles,” Adora murmured and Catra smiled.

“It's not your fault,” Catra assured and Adora frowned but didn’t open her eyes. 

“It is. It's all my fault, but I’ll fix it,” Adora promised and Catra frowned as she tilted her head curiously. 

“What do you mean?” Catra asked, but Adora was quiet for a long moment before she spoke again. 

“You would be a good wife. Too good for me,” Adora said, her voice sounding soft and sleepy. She sounded so vulnerable and Catra squeezed her hand, only to realise it was She-ra she was holding. She wanted to offer comfort but she couldn’t give any with She-ra so she reached out and brushed that pesky hair back from Adora’s relaxed face. 

“You’re sweet, but you’d be better than me,” Catra whispered as Adora leaned into Catra’s touch. Adora’s breath deepened and evened out as she settled into sleep. Catra felt warm from Adora’s words. She was wrong, but it was still sweet. Catra wouldn’t make a good wife, she didn’t even know how to be a wife. 

Catra put that out of her mind to worry about Adora needing more pills for this flight than the last one. She decided to check on her again during the flight just be sure she was alright. The stress of going home was probably more than going on vacation. That would explain why Adora needed more support this time. 

Finn was nodding off in the chair when Catra returned to the main room and they shook their little head like they could dispel the sleep with enough force. Catra returned to her seat and opened her arms to the sleepy kitten, if they cuddled, she might get to nap too. Finn accepted the offer and snuggled into her arms. 

“Did you like the horses?” Finn asked sleepily into her hair and she rubbed their back soothingly. 

“I did, they are big, but I like them a lot,” Catra agreed and Finn purred. 

“I’m glad, I like them a lot too,” Finn murmured and Catra purred in response to their gentle rhythm. 

“I’m glad I got to meet them,” Catra said gently and Finn nuzzled into her cheek. 

“Me too…I love you…” they whispered and Catra’s heart did a funny little beat. She wrapped her arms tighter around Finn. She was both elated and devastated that Finn loved her. She loved them from the start, but she was scared to be a person they loved and trusted only to abandon them at the end of her contract. She couldn’t do that, she would happily be a part of Finn’s life for the rest of hers. But would she be allowed? She hoped so. She needed to ask Ms Grey and maybe she could organise to visit. 

“I love you too Finny,” Catra whispered, her voice cracking with emotion as she tried not to squeeze them too tight. It wasn’t long until they fell asleep in her arms and Catra sat thinking about what she could say to convince their mum to let her stay in their life. 

When the flight landed Adora was groggy but roused long enough to let Catra help her to the car. The Grey’s were both asleep within seconds of starting their long drive home.

 
Finn was purring in their sleep and it made Catra drowsy as she listened. She wanted to sleep but was determined to stay awake just in case either of them stirred. She hadn’t really been looking anywhere in particular, but her gaze kept returning to Adora’s sleeping face in the seat beside her. Catra was absentmindedly staring at Adora when she suddenly opened her eyes in a panic. Adora jerked upright and looked around, her eyes wide in the darkness as she tried to understand where she was. 

Catra put her hand on Adora’s arm to sooth her and her eyes found her. She let out a little breath of relief that warmed Catra’s chest as their eyes locked. 

“We’ll be home soon,” Catra whispered so she didn’t disturb Finn. Adora nodded her head and laid back against the headrest with a soft groan.

“What time is it?” Adora asked, she moved both her hands to rub against her face in an attempt to wake herself further. 

“About eleven thirty, we should be back by midnight,” Catra whispered and Adora nodded her head as she lowered her hands. She looked embarrassed as she avoided Catra’s gaze. 

“How did I get to the car?” Adora asked in a whisper, dread coating her words. Catra tried to give Adora a reassuring smile but she wouldn’t look at her as her hands twisted in her pyjamas. 

“You walked on your own but you must have still been feeling the medication, since you fell asleep once we started driving,”

“Did anyone see me?” Adora asked softly.

“Just me, I helped you from the plane and Finn was already in their car seat. I asked the rest of the staff to wait in the cockpit,” Catra said and shrugged her shoulders casually. She took Entrapta’s warning to heart when she told her that Adora didn’t like her employees to see her like that. Catra, for whatever reason, had a pass. 

Adora finally looked from her lap into Catra’s eyes and gave her a shy smile. Catra returned the gesture and wished she could take Adora’s hand to stop her fidgeting but it felt like an overly intimate gesture, so she refrained. 

“Thank you,” Adora said earnestly and Catra felt her gratitude fill her body from her toes to the tips of her ears. The warmth spread, enveloping her limbs as her fur stood on end. Adora’s smile turned far too affectionate before Catra realised the heat in her face was probably visible. She looked away and lashed her tail towards Finn’s side of the car to dispel the feeling. 

“You’re welcome,” Catra said, her voice strained by her fluster. 

It wasn’t long before they arrived home and the driver helped them take their bags from the car. Catra carried a sleeping Finn through the lobby even though Adora had wanted to hold them. She knew that while she was recovering from her medication, that wasn’t a good idea. 

Catra felt some sense of relief and homecoming when she stepped over the threshold. The house smelt like Finn, Adora, and Catra. It felt safe, not because of the security in the lobby, or the key in the lift, but because it was home. Catra’s apartment never felt like that. It was drafty in the winter and too hot in the summer. The only place that could compare was her mum's apartment where she lived most of her life. 

Adora sighed as she stepped inside behind Catra, but it wasn’t the same sound of relief. Catra could see the way Adora’s responsibilities settled back onto her shoulders and her eyes lost their focus as she thought of what she had to do tomorrow. Adora’s shoulders sagged slightly under the weight but it passed quickly before she straightened her back and a familiar look settled on her face. 

Ms Grey was back in Brightmoon.

#

Adora got out of bed later than usual, which wasn’t surprising after Catra listened to her laptop clicking long after they all retired to bed. 

In the morning she could hear her preparing for the day and talking softly to Finn in the kitchen. Catra knew she had to get up, it was just before seven and Adora would be leaving soon. Catra pushed herself up and dressed quickly in jeans and a nice blouse before she threw her hair into a ponytail and padded barefoot into the kitchen. 

Adora was still holding Finn but looked up from making her coffee to give a tired smile. Catra would have loved to put parental controls on Adora’s technology after seeing her tired expression. All she wanted was to make sure she couldn’t use it after midnight and before six in the morning, but she had to remind herself that it wasn’t her place to tell her boss what to do. 

“Coffee?” Adora asked holding up another cup and Finn lifted their head to look at Catra. They looked tired too and Catra was sure a nap would be needed for them today.

“Yes, please,” Catra agreed. Finn leaned towards Catra like they wanted to greet her but didn’t move far away from Adora when they offered their cheek. Catra didn’t consider Adora’s proximity when she leaned in to accept the greeting and got far too close to rubbing her face against Adora in the process. 

“Sorry,” Catra mumbled and stepped back quickly to try to dispel the awkward feeling in her chest but Adora didn't seem to notice Catra invading her space. 

“Here” Adora said gently as she moved Finn in her arms to offer Catra her coffee. Catra took the mug and smiled.

“Thank you,” Catra said and Ms Grey gave a small smile in return. Adora moved Finn in her arms and explained softly to them that she had to go to work before they were placed on their feet. Adora pressed a kiss to the top of their head before Finn walked over to Catra and leaned on her legs sleepily. Catra ran her fingers through their mane of hair soothingly and listened to their soft purr. 

“I’ve got a late meeting but I’ll be home by seven so you should have dinner without me,” Ms Grey said, her eyes moving to her phone before she huffed out a small breath and nodded. 

“Alright, have a good day,” Catra said, feeling like she should do something before Adora left, but she wasn’t sure what. 

“You too,” She said, grabbing her bag before she left the house and the front door clicked. Catra looked down at Finn who was slowly waking up as they rubbed their cheek against the soft fabric of Catra’s jeans. 

“Finny, would you like to come with me to get my film developed?” Catra asked and Finn looked up at her with big blue eyes. 

“What does that mean?” Finn asked.

“It means to make them into photos that we can see,” Catra explained and Finn nodded their head slowly. 

“Okay, can we pick up Swifty on the way?” Finn asked, perking up more. 

“Sure, I’ll call us a car big enough for a horse,” Catra joked. Finn giggled and ran towards their room to get dressed like they had never been tired at all. 

The car was tight with a Great Dane in the back but they made it work. The same moustached driver was taking them downtown today and Catra learned his name was Sea Hawk. She didn’t believe that was his real name at first but when he showed his licence she was shocked to see it was his legal name. 

Sea Hawk parked the car near the mall downtown and was relieved to have Juliet’s help keeping an excited giant away from other people. It didn’t help that he was as tall as most children and at the perfect height to share their food when they let him. Juliet had her hands full keeping him from making friends and unfortunately had to wait outside the shop since it didn’t allow animals inside. 

Finn accompanied Catra to wait in line. At the counter an elderly man was discussing the size he wanted for his bird photos but they got bored waiting and went to touch things on the shelf a few feet away. 

Catra kept them in her sight as she waited and stepped up to the counter when it was her turn. She was greeted by a tall woman with blue hair and a friendly smile.

 
“Hey, I’d like to get some film developed,” Catra said, putting the rolls of film on the counter between them. 

“Sure,” the woman said but looked at Catra longer than needed. “Have we met?” She asked, curiously.

“Uh, I don’t think so,” Catra said, looking at the woman's face closely. She had a good memory for faces and she was sure she hadn’t seen her before. 

“Strange, you look so familiar,” she said and Catra smiled. 

“Is this a pick up line?” Catra joked and the woman blushed. 

“Well, no, it wasn’t, but it could be?” she said, smiling back. Catra smiled as Finn stepped up to the counter and put their nose over the edge to see what they were missing. The woman looked down at Finn with surprise before she looked back at Catra. 

“Thank you, but I don’t think I have the time right now,” Catra said apologetically.

“Hey I get it, it's okay. I’ll grab your details for the photos and we should have them done in a few hours,” The woman looked embarrassed as she turned her attention to the computer. Catra felt bad for turning her down but she really didn’t have time. 

It had nothing to do with the massive crush she had on her boss. She was just being responsible with her time.

They stayed at the mall for a few hours getting food and walking around until Catra’s photos were ready. When they returned to pick up the photos a different staff member served her and encouraged her to check the photos before she left. Finn was fascinated by the magic of photo developing and asked many question to the man behind the counter. 

“Can I take pictures too?” Finn asked Catra and she smiled. 

“Of course. I can get you a camera. Would you like that?” She asked and Finn nodded their head as they beamed with excitement. Catra paid for a disposable camera and Finn looked at the finite number of photos they could take with worry. Catra crouched in front of them to see their face clearly. 

“Whats up?” she asked gently and Finn pouted. 

“There aren’t that many, what if I waste them?” Finn whispered. 

“You can’t waste them. You can only use them,” Catra said was reminded of something like that she said to Ms Grey and how similar they were. 

“What happens if I use them all?” Finn asked with drooping ears.

“Then I’ll buy you another one, okay?” she asked and Finn smiled.

“Okay,” they said shyly and Catra pressed a kiss to the top of their head before she led them back to the car. 

Finn used all their film that night while at home, taking photos of Swifty, their mum and photos of the view from the penthouse. Adora seemed puzzled by the camera. She looked at it before she checked her phone, but didn’t comment on why she was frowning. Catra realised later that she didn’t to use her business card for Finn’s gift, and that was probably what upset Ms Grey. 

Catra found it hard to remember to use the card when she was happy to provide. She knew she wasn’t meant to spend her own money on Finn, but she didn’t see the point of using Ms Grey’s money if she could afford the gift herself. 

A disposable camera was only around twenty dollars so it wasn’t like it would break the bank. Besides, she couldn’t put a price on Finn’s happiness, especially when little treasures made them shine so bright.

Chapter Text

Mondays were hard. Spending two days away from work, she felt like she was playing catch up on what happened over the weekend. She didn’t like it, but she promised herself when Finn was born that weekends would be for her family. Her father kept weekends for them and if he could do it, so could she. 

Adora stepped out of the elevator to the top floor of Greyskull and felt dread settle into her chest. 

Mermista was at her desk as usual, but standing by her office door was both Entrapta and Netossa. 

Adora let out a slow breath to try to calm her heart as she approached. Netossa didn’t look happy as she leaned against the wall with her arms crossed. Not a good sign. 

Entrapta was standing still as a statue by the door but appeared to be deep in thought. Her eyes were unfocused but moved slightly as if she was looking at imaginary words floating in front of her.  

“Who wants to go first?” Adora asked. Netossa opened her mouth to speak but Entrapta spoke first. 

“Hello, I’m not staying. I have the file you requested,” Entrapta said and held it out to Adora. 

She took the folder and opened it to see Harold Primus staring back at her. He looked similar to Hank but frail and slender in the face. He didn’t smile in the picture and his brow was pinched with concentration. The photo was staged, but he looked irritated like it was a waste of his time. 

The file was surprisingly thick as she flicked through the pages of endless detail Entrapta included. Not everything was relevant, definitely not his star sign and birth hour but Entrapta believed all information was relevant so it would be up to Adora to find what was important. 

“Thank you Entrapta,” Adora said and Entrapta nodded her head once before she walked away. She didn’t go to the main elevator, instead walking down the hall towards the service elevator on the other end of that floor. 

Adora snapped the file closed and looked back at Netossa. 

“Should I be worried why you came to see me so early without a meeting?” Adora asked and Netossa shook her head with a sigh. 

“Mermista confirmed you don’t have any meetings right now so it's a good time to talk,” Netossa said, letting herself into Adora’s office. Adora followed and placed the file on her desk before she took her seat. 

“That’s fine. I wanted to talk to you as well,” Adora said, trying to keep the exasperation from her voice. The media was her least favourite topic, which meant she often avoided her meetings with Netossa. Not this time apparently. Netossa cornered her instead. 

“Oh? About what?” Netossa asked, sitting in the chair across from Adora at her desk and leaned back casually. Adora was suspicious of her relaxed demeanour, like she was talking to a wild animal that might bolt at any moment. She didn’t appreciate that.  

“I want to make a statement about Catra. She’s uncomfortable with the lies being told about our relationship,” Adora said, being as direct as possible. Netossa nodded her head in consideration. At least she was thinking about it. 

“I would advise not engaging with the press, if you make a statement to update your relationship status they might continue to poke at Catra to see if they can get a rise out of you,” Netossa said carefully and Adora was disappointed but not surprised. She had expected that response after working with Netossa for so many years.  

“Alright, what would you advise?” Adora asked, she was annoyed that she couldn’t even do this for Catra. She wished she could make Catra’s life normal again, but the spotlight never fades and Adora knew the strain that caused all too well. 

“Maybe don’t take her to events for a while. Take other dates, or even go on a public date, to distract the media,” Netossa said, like it was the easiest answer and not completely ridiculous. 

“I don’t have time for dating,” Adora recited the same argument she always used. She didn’t have time, but she knew her hands were clammy and heart racing at the thought that it was not a normal reaction to such an innocent social interaction. 

“Well, my other advice is that starting a fight with your ex is a bad idea. Always. That brought a lot of unwanted attention, but the slow dancing didn’t help, or disappearing to the bathroom together,” Netossa continued. Adora fought the embarrassment that swelled at hearing their night summarised like that. Of course it sounded bad when you put it that way. 

“I was upset when I found out Melody was cheating on me for two years,” Adora defended, remembering how innocent their bathroom visit had been. Catra had comforted her so sweetly and Adora tried not to blush at the memory. 

She couldn’t think about that, she compartmentalised to stay professional and her time with Catra was no different. 

“I know, and I’m sorry. I would have reacted worse than that, but I’m just telling you how it looks,” Netossa soothed and sat forward.

“I know, but I don’t want this to prevent her romantic endeavours,” Adora said, the statement was true, but it felt like a lie on her tongue.  

“Is she dating?” Netossa asked, her eyebrows rising in surprise. She sat further forward in her chair with interest as she looked at Adora critically.   

“I don’t think that’s any of my business to ask unless she requests security clearance for someone to be around Finn,” Adora said, but she couldn’t deny that she was curious. Catra had been out with Mermista and Adora didn’t know where they stood.

“Uh huh…” Netossa said, sitting back again with a disbelieving look on her face. “Well, if you want to say something, we can revisit it when all this dies down a bit. It might blow over on its own like it did with Mermista,” Netossa said, pulling out her phone to look at the articles. 

“Fine,” Adora huffed, trying not to show her annoyance at the whole situation. 

“Good, in other news. A fan snapped a picture of Catra, Finn and you while you were shopping in the desert,” Netossa said, waving her hand flippantly. 

“What!?” Adora frowned. Finn had been captured again. They were getting caught more often and Adora was frustrated that she couldn’t do more to stop it. 

“Yeah, they sold it to Spotlight and Hope let me know about it. Since it had Finn in the image I was able to convince her to not run the story but its pretty cute photo, if you want a copy,” Netossa said showing the image on her phone to Adora. Catra was wearing her travel outfit and Finn was hanging off her arm as they spoke excitedly. Adora stood behind them, holding Catra’s clothing bags but the position of the photo looked like Adora had her arm around Catra’s waist, which she did not. It was a cute image, but that didn’t change the fact that it invaded their vacation and stole those precious private moments. 

“No thank you, I’d rather not have any image that strangers take of my child,” Adora said firmly and Netossa nodded her head before she put her phone away. “Anything else I should know about?” 

“Yeah, someone appears to have leaked that you have an interview with a Primus brother, and the press think it's pretty juicy,” Netossa said and Adora sighed slowly to try to control her anger. Just great. 

“Who started it?” Adora asked, though she needn’t have bothered. 

“Eclipse,” Netossa confirmed and Adora nodded. 

“Of course. Let me guess, they have an anonymous source?” Adora spat bitterly and Netossa nodded.

“Yep,” she confirmed. 

“Keep me posted. There’s not much we can do about it right now,” Adora sighed as she rubbed her temples to avoid the stress headache growing there. The day had barely started and she was sure it wouldn’t get any easier. 

“Yeah, they write whatever sells,” Netossa said and Adora nodded. 

“Exactly,” She agreed and saw the light flashing from her intercom on her desk. She clicked the button. “Yeah?”

“Your sisters on the line,” Mermista said boredly before disconnecting and the transfer light lit up. Adora huffed. She didn’t need to ask which sister because she was sure she was about to get chewed out. 

“Anything else?” Adora asked and Netossa shook her head. “No, I’ll get out of your hair. Keep an eye on your emails though, I’ll work on something for Catra in case we need it.” Netossa confirmed as she stood. 

“Thanks,” Adora was already distracted by the flashing light of the call waiting for her. 

“Are you taking a date to that fundraiser for the children's hospital?” 

“I wasn’t planning to. I have to make a speech and Mermista often complains about how boring it is,” Adora shrugged and Netossa nodded. 

“Think about what I said,” Netossa said before leaving the room. Adora took a steadying breath before she moved on and answered the call. 

“I can’t believe you made me wait,” Glimmer sulked and Adora rolled her eyes. 

“I was in a meeting with Netossa, I’m sorry for making you wait less than a minute. What do you need?” Adora asked and Glimmer huffed dramatically. Adora sat back in her seat and waited to hear her sister's criticisms.

“Care to explain to me why all the vendors I set up for my birthday party contacted me to say that their invoices had been paid in full and I didn’t do it,” Glimmer said and Adora shook her head. Every time she tried to help she was scolded. She couldn’t buy Adam a car, she couldn’t import rare plants from the whispering woods for Angella’s birthday and apparently she couldn’t use her own money to make her sister's life easier. 

“I don’t know Glim. Maybe it was the Tooth Ferret,” Adora said, trying to deflect the conversation. She wasn’t in the mood for this conversation and she could feel her frustration mounting. 

“Oh? The Tooth Ferret? Are they the ones treating me like a child that can’t afford to pay for her own birthday party?” Glimmer asked and Adora rubbed the bridge of her nose carefully. 

What a Monday this was shaping up to be. Of course Glimmer would get her good intentions twisted. 

“I’m not treating you like a child, call it an early birthday present,” Adora offered, knowing full well that she had already bought Glimmer a luxury spa trip for herself Angel and Bow in Mystacor.  

“I knew it was you! You told me you already bought my birthday present!” Glimmer said and Adora sighed. Busted. 

“That wasn’t a birthday present,” Adora lied and Glimmer snorted derisively. Adora just wanted this conversation to be over so she could get back to her work. She would rather talk to Glimmer later when she wasn’t already so irritated. 

“Then what was it?” Glimmer challenged and Adora had nothing to say to that. She could buy the whole family spa tickets for their Christmas trip to Mystacor but then Angella would be bothered that Adora was spending so much money on her siblings again. She really couldn’t win. 

“An investment,” Adora said lamely, she was starting to feel like a scolded child and she hated that feeling. 

“Does that mean you can take it back?” Glimmer asked curiously and technically Adora could take it back if she wanted to, but she didn’t and she wouldn’t. Glimmer worked hard and she deserved to relax at a spa weekend with her family.  

“I’m not taking it back Glimmer, I don’t have time to argue with you right now. I’m working,” Adora huffed, she needed to get off this call and calm down before she said something hurtful that she didn’t mean. 

“I’m not arguing with you. You are being ridiculous” Glimmer said and that was enough to make Adora snap. She was busy, she had a job to do, keeping their fathers legacy alive and apparently her kind gestures weren’t appreciated at all. So she would have to remember that. 

“Fine, I’m ridiculous. I have to go. Love you,” Adora tacked on, she didn’t want Glimmer to think her anger was because she didn’t care, but she was done with this conversation. 

“Ador-” Glimmer's argument was cut off as Adora ended the call. She was in a worse mood than when she started the call but she focused on work. Her personal life was messy, but she could keep her business running smoothly.  

She was able to calm herself down with a few hours of working without interruption and was finally getting into the swing of things when her intercom blinked and a soft beep came through her earpiece. 

She wanted to ignore Mermista and keep working. She didn’t want any more surprises today but she couldn’t bury her head in the sand and ignore the world. Whatever it was, she had no choice but to face it. 

“Yes?” Adora asked in a flat tone, trying to convey her displeasure about being interrupted. 

“Aren’t you popular today,” Mermista said, her voice lilting playfully and Adora sighed as she tried not to let her annoyance show in her voice. 

“Is it important Mermista? I’d rather not be disturbed right now,” Adora said, keeping her voice steady and emotionless.  

“Mr Rokiferd’s secretary is on the line, she’d like to know if you have time next week to squeeze in a meeting with him,” Mermista said casually and Adora leaned back in her chair. 

“Mr Rokiferd? As in Charles Rokiferd?” Adora asked,  not bothering to hide the surprise in her voice as her heart raced. 

“Yep,” Mermista confirmed and Adora somehow still couldn’t believe it.  Mermista wouldn’t joke about this, but she still needed more reassurance. 

“As in Charles Rokiferd. Who we’ve been trying to collaborate with for years? The same one who away’s told us that they have too many projects?” Adora asked again and the softly clicking keys of Mermista’s computer went silent. 

“That’s the guy, sooo?” Mermista asked, like Adora had no reason to be excited. Like this wasn’t a big deal. 

Adora was a big supporter of the Rokiferd fund, their cutting edge research on stem cells and nerve repair gave her hope for Adam’s condition.

“Well obviously yes, make any changes you need to fit him into the schedule,” Adora agreed, she would even reschedule the board for Rokiferd at this point. 

She wanted to collaborate on technology that could allow the body to repair while slowly reintroducing and building muscle. In theory healing nerve damage, and being free of prosthetic support. If she could get Rokiferd onboard and Harold Primus was what she hoped, she might be able to keep her promise to help Adam after all. 

“Will do,” Mermista hung up and Adora leaned back in her chair with a frown. Why did this seem too good to be true? Why is he interested now? She looked at the painting of her family hanging on the wall as she fought the paranoia growing in her chest. What changed? 

Mermista didn’t bother to knock when she came into the room after concluding her call. She looked pleased, well, as pleased as Mermista could look. She sat on the chair in front of Adora’s desk and waited. Adora was still frowning when her eyes moved from the painting to Mermista. 

“Why now?” she asked and Mermista looked almost threatening as she grinned. It looked so out of place on her face and it was a little unnerving. 

“Well, you didn’t hear it from me, but Cindy, Rokiferd’s assistant, said that he had concerns about your company,” Mermista said and Adora only frowned deeper as she tried to think what could be concerning about Greyskull. Was it the very public vote for military applications that has changed public opinion on the company and what they stood for? 

“What kinds of concerns?” Adora asked, her stomach sank at the thought that Greyskull’s image might be negatively affected by her actions. No. She shouldn’t overthink it, she had to believe that Netossa would tell her if there had been such a large change. 

“His company is, like, family owned and run,” Mermista said like that explained anything and Adora shook her head. 

“Greyskull is too,” Adora said and Mermista nodded her head while tilting it back and forth in indecision.  

“Family owned, but not run, you and Bow are the only family working here, and Bow is far from an executive position,” Mermista explained like she was explaining to a child. Adora was not in the mood for this. 

“So, to get him to work with us I have to burden my brother with an active executive position and exacerbate his medical condition?” Adora asked, her anger rising to protect Adam like she always did. He didn’t need the stress of this company to make him feel worse. Adora could handle everything as long as he could live a life with as little pain as possible. 

Mermista shrugged but it was clear she was trying to hide the smirk growing on her face. “He said he thought you were running the show all on your own, until he saw the photos,” Mermista said, her mouth ticking up on one side did bode well for Adora. 

“What photos?” Adora groaned, she hoped there was nothing else that Netossa had missed. She despised the media. 

“Of you and your lovely wife,” Mermista said, her smirk growing when Adora realised what she was talking about and glared at her. Adora thought Mermista was interested in Catra? Why did she look so happy that Adora had so publicly stolen her girl? 

“He wants to work with us now because he thinks I’m married?” Adora scoffed in disbelief. Surely not. 

“Seems like it,” Mermista said as she leaned back in her chair and crossed her legs. 

“That’s ridiculous, and a little insulting. Is it because I’m a single mother?” Adora asked, feeling a familiar fury that always followed her discovery of archaic opinions about women in the workforce. 

“I’m not sure it’s that deep. He likes to see other family run businesses sharing the load,” Mermista said carefully as she looked at Adora with a significant expression that she didn’t understand. Adora was already in a bad mood. She almost wanted to refuse the meeting now on principle, but she would never do that to Adam. 

“I’m not sure I want to work with him now,” Adora voiced her distaste even though she knew this wasn’t about her. She needed to do this for Adam. 

“Right? Want me to cancel it? I can tell him we have too many projects,” Mermista smirked with petty glee and Adora huffed as she rolled her eyes. She really wanted to, but she was a business woman first, and she couldn’t pass up the opportunity. 

“I’ll keep the appointment for now. I want to know what he wants. I’m just not sure I want the collaboration anymore,” Adora frowned as she tapped her pen against Harold’s folder on her desk. 

“Entrapta would be disappointed, she wants this collaboration almost as much as you do,” Mermista reminded her and Adora nodded. She would inevitably put her feelings aside and do what needed to be done. 

Greyskull was a titan in its field, and Adora wasn’t going to let the insult slide. If he wanted to work with her, she would make it a favourable collaboration for Greyskull but in reality she would do anything for Adam. 

“She would get over it, especially if I hire her friend,” Adora shrugged and Mermista smirked like she knew I had already decided to work with him. 

“True, gotta keep the tech genius happy,” Mermista said, getting to her feet and brushing her skirt flat before she walked to the door. 

“Exactly” Adora agreed and picked up Harold’s folder. “Can you set up an interview with Harold Primus for tomorrow. High priority, no meetings within an hour before it. I don’t want another repeat of Catra’s interview,”

“I’ll make the changes, but Entrapta’s already added his interview to your calendar. It's at 8 o’clock,” Mermista confirmed and Adora frowned as she wondered if she needed to talk to Entrapta about professional boundaries again. 

“Fine, but tell her she can’t come to the interview, I want Bow there as an impartial technical consultant,” Adora said and Mermista clicked around on her phone, doing her bidding.

“Done. Carn just emailed and requested to speak to you tonight after hours. He said around eight,” Mermista confirmed and Adora frowned deeper. 

“Strange, did he say why?” Adora asked and Mermista shook her head slightly, flicking her long braid over her shoulder. 

“He said he didn’t want you to worry, so he’ll explain later,” Mermista said and Adora felt nothing but worry growing in her chest. 

“Great, thanks Mermista” she said a little sarcastically and Mermista spun on her gold heels and walked out of the room. Adora took a deep breath to try to clear her mind and returned to her work. 

#

Adora stepped inside the penthouse with a sigh. She was relieved to be home earlier than usual but she was anxiously awaiting Carn’s call later that evening. It was late enough that she could take it from her office after Finn went to sleep. So, she decided that instead of perpetuating her bad mood at work, she returned home to spend time with Finn before dinner. 

The day was cold, but maybe that was in comparison to the hot weekend they spent in the desert. Adora never usually wore a jacket over her suit but needed it that day. She took off her outer coat and opened the closet in the hallway to put it away. 

When the door opened Adora reached for a coat hanger and saw the reflection of eyes in the dark back corner of the closet. Adora looked down at the big two toned eyes reflecting her own surprise and confusion back at her. Catra was sitting on the floor, partly obscured by the hanging coats and scarves, peering up at her.

“What are you doing?” Adora asked in a surprisingly casual but confused tone. She was baffled but continued her action to put her coat away as if nothing unusual was going on.  

“I’m winning. Don’t give away my hiding spot,” Catra said in a whisper as her eyes filled with a playful spark and her pupils grew in the dim light. Adora tried not to smile. Adorable. 

“My lips are sealed,” Adora said and Catra grinned before Adora shut the door, closing her inside and continuing down the hall. 

Finn was in the living room bent down to look under the couch like they believed there was enough room for Catra to hide there. Catra was small, but not quite that small. 

Adora cleared her throat and Finn looked up, their excitement to see her was clear but their curiosity came first as their ears twitched at her. 

Adora placed her finger over her lips before she nodded her head down the hallway and Finn followed the motion with interest. They ran quietly down the hall and looked around before they spotted the door to the closet as if they’d never seen it before opening it. 

“Ah ha!” Finn chirped triumphantly. 

“Nooo! Betrayal! Your mama is a tattletale,” Catra said before she squeaked and there was a loud thud. Adora was concerned for a second but they both laughed. Adora assumed that everything was fine if they were laughing and chuckled to herself as she continued her path to her bedroom. 

After changing into lounge wear, Adora joined the game of hide and seek. On her first round she promptly found Catra again, but this time she was meant to be hiding too. Catra had taken the hiding spot that Adora wanted. She considered finding a new hiding spot when Catra shuffled over to create room and Adora sat beside her in the little garden shed. 

It was ridiculous, two grown women in their late twenties hiding from a five year old in a tidy but tiny garden shed. Adora was being jabbed in the back by a watering can and Catra was watching a large bug creep closer to her bare toes. Catra moved her toes out of the way of the bug before she looked up and made eye contact with Adora in the low light. 

She couldn’t help it, the situation was so silly that she snorted. Catra tried not to laugh at the sound but it wasn’t long before they were both physically trying to hold back their giggles with their hands like a couple of eight year old’s. Catra had her hand over her mouth when a wheezy little snort came out her nose and the shed door opened to reveal their hunter. 

“Mama you cheated. You said the garden shed is off limits,” Finn accused with a pout and Adora had to laugh. Returning air to her lungs greedily as she felt light headed from all the fun she was having. 

“You’re right Finny. I’m sorry, but Miss Catra cheated too,” Adora excused playfully and Catra lightly swatted her arm.

“Hey! Where’s your loyalty today?” Catra huffed as she tried to look scandalised but couldn’t stop the smile growing on her face. 

“Did you tell Miss Catra that it was off limits?” Finn asked curiously as they seemed to be considering what terrible fate she deserved from cheating. 

“Well…no,” Adora admitted sheepishly. Accepting her second scolding of the day with much more grace than her first. This time she knew she was in the wrong but she refused to believe she was wrong to help her family. 

“No, no, you did not,” Catra agreed and Adora had to grin, unfolding herself from her cramped position and gently rubbing the watering can imprint on her back. 

“It seems I was at fault,” Adora said to Finn as she casually offered her hand to help Catra to her feet. Catra’s small hand immediately took hers and pulled herself to her feet without Adora’s help like her offer was simply to be something sturdy to swing on. “I’m sorry Finn,” Adora continued seriously and they nodded. 

“I forgive you. Now you have to find us!” Finn yelled and immediately ran into the house to find a good spot. Adora turned to Catra, the shed wasn’t tall so Adora ducked her head to avoid hitting the light on the roof. She didn’t notice Catra’s hand was still in hers until Catra looked up at her with a little warmth to her cheeks. 

“I’m sorry Catra. The Garden Shed is off limits,” Adora whispered in her most serious apology voice. Catra tried to stop herself from smiling as the low light made her pupils big and reflective. 

“Noted…Now close your eyes…no speaking,” Catra ordered, her voice soft and breathy. Adora did as she was told, letting go of Catra’s hands to cover her face and started counting to one hundred. She felt Catra brush past her in the small space but heard nothing as the light from the door flickered and she was gone. 

A wet nose pressed against Adora’s leg and she knew Swifty had come to investigate. 

“Hide and seek, Swifty,” she commanded and heard the dog bark and run back towards the house. He would be easy to find, he always hid under Finn’s bed, a trick she taught him when he was a puppy, but it was still adorable even as an adult. Even when he barely fits anymore.  

After many rounds of Hide and Seek, Finn grew hungry and was ready for dinner. Catra cooked something that smelled delicious while Adora gave Finn their bath and got them into their pyjamas.  

Finn had a new disposable camera at the table that they used to take pictures of dinner. Adora knew she didn’t pay for that camera because she had alerts on for all company credit cards. It was how she knew when Mermista was out shopping and why she was certain Catra bought that camera with her own money. Again. 

Catra didn’t want to use the card which made her consider including the money for Finn in her weekly pay. Even if she didn’t spend it on Finn, Adora was happy for her to keep the money. It went to a good cause and she worked hard taking care of Finn. 

Catra got a competitive hourly rate but Adora could justify a bonus considering how often she had helped with Finn on her time off. Adora had taken her away on a trip for the weekend so she would pay her holiday rates since she didn’t get her usual days off. That could work. 

She thought of Glimmer's words from earlier that day. If she gave Catra extra money would she react the way that Glimmer had? Would she be angry or feel like she was being treated like a charity case? She didn’t want Catra to feel like a charity, but she didn’t want her to spend her money on Finn when she could use that money to make her own life more comfortable. 

Adora had plenty of money to spend on her own child and she could easily make Catra comfortable too, but she didn’t want to insult her. She was a very independent woman and Adora didn’t want her to believe that Adora thought she was incapable. 

Adora knew she was capable, resourceful and strong. She was many things that Adora admired and she didn’t want any more of her attempts to ‘help’ to blow up in her face. The rejection was biting but more than anything she hated her actions being misinterpreted. 

Dinner was delicious and relaxing to wind down after a stressful day. After cleaning up they sat reading with Finn and Catra in Finn’s room when she got a text from Carn about their call. She was disappointed to have to leave but hoped that the call wouldn’t take long but she was anxious to know the topic.  

Adora moved to her study and closed the door before sitting at her desk. She sighed and put her head in her hands as she fell down that familiar rabbit hole of self doubt and overthinking. 

Adora’s phone rang and Carn’s bright grinning picture appeared on her screen. 

“Hi Carn, how are you?” Adora asked, taking a seat at her desk and leaning back to relax.

“Good, good, I’ve already connected with Stephan,” Carn said and Adora felt unease settled in her stomach. Why did Adora need to speak to both of them?

“Hey Stephen, how's Mystacor?” Adora asked, trying to keep her voice casual and her mind in the relaxed state she had been enjoying moments ago. 

“Bright and sunny but I think we are expecting a bit of a wet Christmas this year,” Stephan said, the sound of seagulls squawking and waves crashing in the background.   

“That’s not good. I hope the rain can hold off for the Christmas trip,” Adora frowned. Wet weather could mean rain or it could mean a summer storm. She would have to keep an eye on the weather reports and prepare for any storms. 

“We can only hope,” Stephan agreed with a laugh. 

“I don’t mind the rain, we had a snow storm that took out the power last night,” Carn griped. 

“The power goes on and off too often there,” Adora agreed as her mind conjured the memory of sleeping next to Catra in one such storm. She shook her head quickly to dispel it. She avoided thinking about that night and she wasn’t about to start now. 

“Yeah, old lines, the power company is looking to lay new ones in the spring, so hopefully we won't have to worry next year,” Carn said, his tone suggesting he would believe it when he saw it. 

“That’s good. As nice as it is to catch up. I hope we can discuss whatever you needed quickly so I can put Finn to bed instead of Catra,” Adora said, rubbing her temple as the mention of bed and Catra did not help her dispel her earlier thoughts. 

“I don’t think it will take long, but speaking of Catra, that is what we wanted to talk about,” Carn said in a low rumbling tone. It was no secret that Carn and Stephan liked Catra. Meeting her in the snow seemed to have made a lasting impression on both her fathers best friends and they asked about her whenever they had the chance. 

“You wanted to talk about Catra?” Adora asked, lowering her voice despite the closed door to her office. She would hate for Catra to hear her talking about her out of context. If it was important she would talk to Catra about it directly. 

“Yes. Primus spoke to both me and Carn about his concerns with Catra,” Stephan smoothly took over explaining from Carn. Adora frowned at his words. Why would Primus talk to them about Catra? That’s ridiculous. 

“What…what concerns could he possibly have? She's my nanny,” Adora said firmly even if that job description didn’t really cover everything Catra did for them. It was still the truth. 

“What he said to me, was that he thought Eclipse News reported the truth and she’s actually your partner,” Carn growled. Adora huffed, a little insulted that Carn thought the idea so terrible. Adora knew Catra was out of her league but he could give her some credit. She had dated beautiful women before, just…none like Catra. 

Not that I’m dating Catra. I’m not.

“Of course he would agree with them, what did you say?” Adora asked, diving back into the depths of her foul mood. 

“I told him that I believed you. She’s your Nanny and even if other feelings, have or could arise, you would be professional,” Carn said, his voice returning to his lighter mischievous tone.   

“Thank you, it's nice to hear that someone thinks that,” Adora grumbled. She was being unprofessional on this call but she didn’t care. She’d known Carn and Steph her whole life and despite this topic pertaining to work, it wasn’t directly related to Greyskull.

“Of course. He didn’t agree, but he did try a slightly different approach with Steph,” Carn continued and Stephan took over once again. 

“Yes, he said he was worried that if Catra is what the papers have dubbed her- a “gold-digger”-then your controlling shares in the company are in danger of leaving the Grey family if or when your relationship doesn’t work out,” Stephan said and Adora rolled her eyes. Neither of these men- who she considered family -had any faith in her ability to entertain a woman. Granted, her last experience was terrible and she hadn’t tried again, but shouldn’t they be more encouraging? 

What the hell am I thinking? Focus. 

“He sure likes to make assumptions doesn’t he?” Adora huffed. She needed to get her brain back on track. This was about her company, not Catra. Primus was up to something and the lies about Catra were just the tip of the iceberg. What was he trying to achieve? 

“That’s pretty rich coming from him. Just look at who his fiancee is. She ran at the first mention of a prenup,” Carn huffed. Adora’s mind was already a mess but it easily conjured her worse memories of the night she almost lost Finn in her grief. She could have lost everything in one horrible night. She shook her head. 

Don’t think about it. 

“Surely he knows who she is. He isn’t stupid,” Adora conceded but something was definitely off. Why was he putting so much effort into under-minding her position as CEO? Adora knew he was intelligent, so what was his plan? She knew he wanted the military contract, but why? Why would he care so much? 

It wasn’t long before they concluded their call and Adora’s mind was whirling with information. She would need to look into it more tomorrow and see what she could find. 

Harold Primus would be coming in for his interview but she couldn’t exactly ask him what his brother was planning. Family loyalty was important but could Harold be part of Hank’s plan? She trusted Entrapta but there was a possibility that she was also being played. She wasn’t close with many people, so the fact that she was close with Harold was suspicious. Adora hoped for her sake that the one person she freely called a friend was not using her for their own game. 

Adora was disappointed to find that Finn’s light was already off. Adora found Catra sitting on her bed with her laptop and her bedroom door open. 

“Hey Catra,” Adora said without thinking about what she would say next. She should tell Catra what was going on? It did concern her, so she should, right? 

“Yeah?” Catra asked, looking up from her laptop with a small tired smile. Adora frowned, undecided if she should put this burden on Catra’s shoulders or keep it to herself. There was nothing she could do with the information except worry and Adora really didn’t want to worry her. She had enough to think about without Adora adding to it. 

She decided she would wait until she had more information before she talked to Catra. It was just a rich man insulting her behind her back and telling her would only upset her. Though Adora wasn’t sure if Catra would care what Primus thought of her after her little display at the Gala. 

Why was it so hard to keep all these memories of Catra in the neat little box she hid them away in? Catra was still looking at Adora expectantly and she rushed to think of something to say to her. 

“Are you ever going to use your company credit card?” Adora asked, trying to smooth the frown from her face so Catra didn’t think she was scolding her. 

“Oh…” Catra said, smiling warily. “Probably not,” she confirmed and Adora believed her. She gave a short nod as she made her decision. If Catra wanted to use her money for Finn, then Adora would give her more money.  

“Goodnight Catra,” Adora said gently and Catra smiled, though she looked confused. Adora was acting weird and she knew it. She felt weird and she didn’t know why. 

Catra was wrapped up in a sweater and leggings that were definitely too warm for the weather but she looked so cosy that Adora wanted to lie down. 

Not on her own bed, but with Catra on hers.

“Goodnight Adora,” Catra said and Adora left quickly to the safety of her own room.