Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Adora Grayskull - the most popular girl on campus well known for her successes on the school’s basketball team known as the ‘Rebels’, less well known for her clumsiness, lack of social (and self) awareness and her… love choices. Yeah, she’s a lesbian, so what? Not everybody knew and nor did they have to. She kept it close to her heart except for people who she truly cared about, examples including everyone on her team and especially her two best friends since junior year of high school, Bow and Glimmer.

People at her college, strangers she didn’t even know assumed her life had been perfect all the way up to this certain point. It was far from that. She and her twin brother Adam had been orphaned from the age of just five years old when their mother, Mara, sadly passed away. On their birthday nonetheless, so it was always a difficult time for the twins. They were adopted years later by a lovely old, slightly witted lady named Razz and they had lived with her since the twins were sixteen.

They were now nineteen and both attending their first year of college at Brightmoon university, Adora’s scholarship in basketball with a minor in physiotherapy, and Adam’s scholarship in football with a minor in American history - Adora knew he was always a nerd for that. Luckily for her, Bow and Glimmer also attended the same school which gave her a sense of ease with her struggles in new social situations, something that was much disregarded and ignored by Miss Weaver in the orphanage. 

Adora shuddered at the thought of her old carer. The woman was cruel, domineering, and manipulative, and because of this, Adora now has scars that will be with her for the rest of her life. She possessed a strong element of intimidation and fear that Adora could never seem to get rid of, even after countless hours of restless sleep and therapy. The twins were lucky to get out of there when Razz came along.

Adora sighed as she inspected her hands in her lap. She knew there was no reason to - she wasn’t feeling particularly anxious. Despite this, her hands started to shake, an action she found herself to be repeating on the daily. She didn’t like how weak and nervous it made her look, but this was usual for her.

Knuckles rapped on her door. “Adora? Are you ready to bounce?” 

She looked up and turned towards the door, Adam’s voice muffled through the wooden frame. Adora said nothing for a moment, turning back to reinspect her hands - they were still shaking. It must’ve been her thoughts drifting to Miss Weaver.

You’re okay. She’s not here. She can’t hurt you or Adam.

Adam tapped the door again. “Adora?”

“Yeah!” She responded shakily, clearing her throat. “Yeah, I’m coming.” She grabbed her bag and bounded out of the room, pulling her door shut swiftly behind her. Adam noticed her hands and raised an eyebrow questionably. “Don’t,” Adora warned.

Adam held his hands up defensively. “I wasn’t going to.”

“Yeah, but you were thinking about it.” Adora took a deep breath and steadied herself, shouldering her backpack. It was the first day back of the new semester so it made sense for Adam to go in with Adora - he knew how she could get so he needed to keep an eye on her in case something happened.

The pair made their way out of the house. Adora’s heart began to beat faster the closer they got to the truck. She automatically reached into her bag and threw the keys over to Adam who caught them in one hand without looking back. They slid into the truck, slamming the doors shut but not before Adora slammed her forehead into the roof.

“Ow,” she grumbled while rubbing the red mark on her skin. Adam snorted which got him a punch in the shoulder. At least she’d be seeing Bow and Glimmer for the first time in four weeks since they both had to travel back home, unlike Adora and Adam because Razz had decided to move into Brightmoon once she realized the two had gotten into the college. Adora suggested against it but warmed her heart nonetheless when Razz decided to join them. She moved to the outskirts of the city so the two still lived on campus for most of the year, visiting most weekends and of course, every holiday.

“Are you okay?” Adam asked, pulling out of the driveway and accelerating down the road. Taking a glance at his identical twin, he noticed her leg bouncing up and down. Ridiculously fast.  

Adora wiped her hands against her jeans - sweaty palms were definitely not her favourite. “Fine.” She responded stiffly. She was not fine. Absolutely not. If anything, she was the exact opposite of fine. Weaver being in her head - the same head that was fucking throbbing because she’s such a clumsy ass - was always a recipe for disaster. When Weaver got stuck in her head, her days never ended well. Even after some amazingly fun times with her brother and best friends, the day just always ends shit.

Adam slowed to a stop at a light and he took the risk to lay a comforting hand on his sister’s knee. “I think I can guess what’s got you so jittery but I’m not going to ask unless you want to talk about it. Just know I’m always here for you short stuff.” He squeezed, returning his hand to the steering wheel, accelerating again after the light changed.

Adora’s head whipped towards Adam, eyes widened in disbelief. “Hey!” Adora snapped, playfully. “We’re basically the same height.” Adora chuckled at the nickname regardless. Ever since their mother passed, the twins became impossibly closer and that’s when the nicknames started to come in. ‘Short stuff’ was definitely Adora’s favourite - Adam had given it to her when he was finally taller than his technically older sister, even if it was just a mere inch difference. It didn’t take Adora long to catch up, however, but the nickname had stuck and it held a special place in Adora’s heart.

Adam pulled into a parking space with ease and switched off the engine. He noticed Adora’s leg still bouncing and hands shaking from the corner of his eye. “Right!” He practically shouted, making Adora jump out of her skin. “Come on dude, let’s get to our dorms.” Adam jumped out of the truck, both their bags in hand and closed the door behind him, Adora just staring at him through the window with disbelief.

He’s such an asshole, she thought to herself, climbing out the truck herself, being extra careful not to hit her head ( again ) in the process. Adam threw the keys towards her, catching them with ease to lock the truck. 

Adora jogged to Adam’s side and slowed her pace to match his. “You don’t need the truck tonight?”

Adam scanned her face with a squint, he could see Adora was confused. “Nah, getting an early night. Got practice in the morning.”

Adora halted and narrowed her eyes. “Practice doesn’t start until next week.” 

“Ah ah ah,” Adam moved his index finger side to side mockingly. “That’s basketball practice dummy. Did you forget we do different sports?”

“Don’t make me come over there,” Adora grumbled, stabbing a finger in his direction. 

“Puh-lease,” Adam scoffed, “as if you could take me.” 

A big cocky grin erupted on Adora’s face. “Wanna bet?” Adora could definitely take him - she’s always been the strongest out of the two, therefore winning any physical fight they had.

Adam knew this of course, but he could tell his sister needed a good distraction and if that involved beating the shit out of him then so be it. Jogging over to a patch of grass, he dropped the duffel to the ground and rolled up his shirt sleeves. His eyes narrowed playfully. “Come at me, short stuff.”

Though Adam looked bigger compared to Adora’s slightly shortened frame, she was actually pretty ripped with muscle underneath her baggy jumper and jeans combo. She stretched and made her way over to the grass, stopping opposite her brother, throwing her bag to the ground beside her feet. She tightened her ponytail and cracked her knuckles. One, by one.

“Ready?” Adam called over.

Adora shook herself out, ignoring the small gathering of people that had started to form, bouncing on the balls of her feet before stopping with her feet shoulder-width apart, legs slightly bent at the knees. Adora smirked. “Ready!”

Adam charged, heading straight for Adora’s legs. At the last possible second, she jumped out of the way and watched as Adam fell face-first into the dirt. Adora cackled when he got to his feet and turned to see the mud smeared all over his face. He growled and spat a piece of grass from his mouth. “Unfair,” he grumbled, charging once again.

Adora caught him this time. They spun and once they came back to face the now even bigger crowd, she had his head in an arm lock with her left, the right hand coming up to dig her knuckles into his scalp. The more he struggled, the tighter Adora held on. “You’re not getting out of this bro!”

Adam eventually managed to push himself out and laughed. “You’re evil Grayskull!”

“Well so are you, Grayskull!”

The twins burst into laughter and the crowd cheered and joined in. Everyone on campus always seemed to be where the twins were, always where the star athletes were for two of their most popular sports in the university. 

Adora calmed down before her brother and suddenly became very aware of everybody around her. She hadn’t experienced this for a good month so she wasn’t surprised when she picked up her duffel with shaking hands. It doesn’t take long for Weaver to invade her head once again.

Anyone who knows Adora will know how easily overwhelmed she can get from just the smallest things - take the ever-growing crowd for example. Adora knew they meant well but due to her current situation? It was not helping one bit. If anything, it was making it much, much worse. Her legs wobbled, keeping a tight smile on her face, attempting to push herself through the crowd and into the safety of her dorm.

The crowd just pushed her back and she ended up back where she started. They didn’t stop there but followed and surrounded her. Breathing shallowed, she managed to gasp out, “ Adam. ”

His laughter died and his eyes widened, he snatched his bag and shoved people out of the way. “Move dickheads! Give the girl some space!” 

Adora’s legs gave and she fell to her knees, breathing still shallowed but increasing rapidly. Hugging her arms to her chest, she started to rock slowly, trying to get her breathing under control. Was this a panic attack? Adora couldn’t tell, all she knew was that she needed to get out of here into a safe space.

“Adora!” Her head raised to meet Adam’s widened eyes. He realized her eyes were red which only meant one thing. He lowered down on one knee to get eye level with his sister. “Did you take your Adderall this morning?” He whispered.

Did she? She must’ve done, right? Adora couldn’t remember so she shook her head rapidly. Adam just nodded and scooped her up into his strong arms without question. Adora squeezed her eyes shut, hands held over her ears in an attempt to stop the ringing.

I have to be good, I have to be good, I have to be –

The next time she opened her eyes she was in her dorm room, lying on her bed.

“Adora!” That was all she heard before two lumps jumped on top of her. “You’re OK!”

Adora froze, confusion written all over her face. “Bow? Glimmer? What are you guys doing here?” She asked as they climbed off of her body. “And where’s Adam?”

It was only the three in them in Adora’s dorm room and the bed opposite hers was empty, which was odd. She was pretty sure she had a roommate last semester. Adora sat up and swung her legs over the edge of the bed, her foot beginning to bounce as soon as it hit the floor. 

“He’s gone to get you food!” Glimmer exclaimed, bouncing over again to sit on Adora’s right. 

“Luckily we arrived on time,” Bow mentioned, settling on her left. “To make sure you were okay until he gets back.”

Adora’s face flushed. Did Adam tell them what happened outside?

Glimmer was watching Adora curiously. “No, Adora, he didn’t tell us what happened.”

Adora’s head snapped to look at her. “How did you–” 

Glimmer waved her off. “I’m your best friend, I know you.”

Bow laid a comforting hand on Adora’s shoulder. “Are you okay though?” He asked, his voice dripping with concern.

Adora sighed and smiled. “I’m ok now.”

Okay, that wasn’t entirely true but Adora didn’t want her friends to worry any more than they already were. They didn’t need that stress in their lives. Keeping her hands in her lap, her mind wandered as Bow and Glimmer took their turns explaining how their holidays went. She was glad to be back at college, glad to be reunited with the Best Friend Squad and glad to be able to get back into her normal routine. Going to the gym, taking a run in the mornings, taking her morning classes and practising for her upcoming basketball games before settling back in her dorm at her desk for some much needed studying time and stretching. Finally, showering in the evening and getting ready for the next day ahead.

On the weekends she’d go to the gym more often instead of running, keeping up her athletic build of muscles and strength while Adam accompanied her. Once back it would be more studying and leaving the afternoon to hang out with the team and the rest of the Best Friend Squad.

“–listening to us Adora?” Bow was saying.

Adora shook her head. “Sorry. What?”

Glimmer chuckled. “That’s a no then.”

“We were just asking if you knew what happened to your roommate?” Bow glanced over, gesturing to the bare mattress, desk and walls on the opposite side of the room.

“That’s what I was going to ask you guys…” Adora got to her feet and turned to Glimmer. “Can you ask your mom? She’d know, right?”

“Uh, yeah sure,” Glimmer shrugged. “I don’t see why she wouldn’t.”

Adora nodded in reply. It was weird she had no roommate all of a sudden, with no explanation. Adam could have an idea but she doubted it - he’s about as dense as she is. 

Adora heard a thump outside her door, followed by a quiet ‘ow’.

Speak of the devil… 

Adam stumbled into the room. “I’m back! Got your favourite Adora.” He rummaged around, pulling out a clear plastic box. “Melon slices!” 

Adora grinned and snatched the box right out of his hand. “Thanks dickhead.”

“Hey!” Adam scolded. “Be nice. I went all the way to the farmer’s market to get you those. Best in the state apparently so dig in!”

Turns out the day didn’t end so bad after all.

Adora stopped outside of her dorm, panting slightly. The morning run had gone well, bar from the storm that hit her right before she got back onto campus. She was drenched from head to toe, droplets of rain dripping off her hair, chin and fingers. Running shorts and a tank top were not designed for this weather so by the time Adora fumbled her key into the lock of her door, she was shivering, a sneeze threatening to escape.

She swallowed, opening the door finally, forcing a grunt away from her voice. Kicking the door shut, she tossed her keys and phone onto her bed, right before barging into someone.

Wait.

Someone?

There was someone in her room. 

A complete stranger had managed to get into Adora’s locked dorm room and, judging by the height of said stranger, it was definitely not her idiotic twin brother. 

How the fuck did they get in here?!? Adora thought to herself. Did I forget to lock the door? The window!? No. It couldn’t have been on the window, she’s on the fifth floor of the building. 

Blinking owlishly, Adora returned to reality. The stranger was rubbing the top of their head, grumbling about the pain. 

Adora bent down to pull off her trainer and hold it up defensively. “Who the fuck are you?”

The stranger had yet to turn around. When they did, the trainer fell from Adora’s hand. “Your fucking roommate that’s who.”

Shit.

Shit. 

Shitshitshitshitshitshitshit .

The girl glanced around and froze when she saw Adora. Her mouth dropped. 

Adora waved sheepishly, a hand clasping her neck. “Heyyyy Catra…”

“You have got to be fucking kidding me.” Catra deadpanned.

Shit.  

Of everyone, it could've been, it just had to be Catra. 

Adora needed Adam. Now.

Catra hadn’t moved from her spot apart from crossing her arms over her chest. “What the fuck happened to you, Grayskull?”

Fuck. No. She couldn’t think about that now. How she had let Catra down, ignored her for her own protection from… from herself. And now? Fuck, now she was here. Here. The same college, the same fucking dorm room. Adora paled when she realised what that also meant.

The two were now roommates. For the remaining years of college.

Adora gulped, sidestepping from Catra, careful not to touch her to get to her closet to find a fresh pair of clothes and a towel. She forgot she was still soaked to the skin. 

Catra’s blue and golden piercing eyes followed every movement of hers. Adora knew she was pissed - why wouldn’t she be? She could tell because her left eye was twitching, her fingers tapping her arm. “Well?” Catra snapped. “Are we going to continue talking about this or are you just going to ignore me?”

Adora seriously needed to get these wet clothes off her skin, they were making her itchy. “I–” Adora gulped again and reached for her phone to give her hands something to fiddle with. “I’ve got a class.” She wouldn’t face Catra, not on the verge of a breakdown. 

Catra scoffed. “I do too. Who cares?”

Adora gripped her phone tighter. “I do. It’s the first day back, I can’t just miss my first class.” Stop lying Adora.

“Wow, Adora, way to get your priorities straight.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Adora snapped but there was no bite to it, just annoyance. 

“Whatever, golden girl.” Catra made her way back over to her bed, however, Adora hadn’t registered any of it.

“You’re my golden girl, you know that right?” Miss Weaver snarked at the child below her.

I must be perfect, I must be perfect, I must be –

“You must be perfect, Adora. If you’re not, well, you know there will be consequences.”

I must be perfect, I must be perfect, I must be –

Adora could hear Catra calling her name - she didn’t process it or show any sign of registering Catra coming toward her once again, this time all but cautiously.

Eventually, she dropped to her knees, her phone slipping from her hands and stopped altogether with a deep choking sob that escaped her throat. She raised her hands to her head innocently and began pulling at her hair loose from its ponytail in an attempt to ground her back to reality. 

Miss Weaver was plain evil. If Adora wasn’t perfect then –

Good things never happened to her during those times. Nor did any of the other kids in the orphanage. From such a young age, Adora had the responsibility to keep everyone in check in case there would be consequences to all of them bar Adora. 

She pulled at her hair a little harder.

Catra knew everything because Adora had told her before she started ignoring her of course... Not even Glimmer, Bow or even Adam knew as much as Catra. Adora could only think of one other person and that was her therapist she had a few years after getting adopted by Razz. 

“Adora?” Catra was still calling her name. To Adora, she seemed… concerned. Scared, maybe? “Adora?”

Maybe she did still care.

Adora froze. She readjusted her position and crossed her legs on the floor, blinking a few times, her hands coming down from her head as she thought to herself. Catra was hovered over her, her brow furrowing. Adora eventually looked up and just stared. 

Stared at her best friend, the person she missed the most. 

Catra knelt in front of her, keeping her distance and asked, “Was that an episode?” 

“I–yeah. Yeah, it was.” Adora didn’t bother arguing back like they were before, she was too tired. “Sorry.” 

“Shut up Adora, god. I should be the one apologising. Shit. It was what I said wasn’t it?” Adora nodded. “Fuck I didn’t even think, I–” Their eyes locked. “I’m sorry. Can I do anything to help?”

Adora nodded again, tears threatening to leave her eyes. She knew exactly what would help, worried that Catra wouldn’t be up for it considering they hadn’t seen each other for so long. Adora sighed and stared at Catra. Raising her eyebrow questionably, Adora nodded again.

Catra stood, moving behind Adora and settling against the edge of her bed. Catra angled her legs out in opposite directions and pulled Adora to her chest.

“Wait!” Adora exclaimed, shooting a panicked look over her shoulder. “I’m going to get you all wet.”

“I don’t care Adora.”

“Which will get your clothes wet and then you’ll be cold and possibly get a cold too and–”

“Adora.” Catra’s stern voice paused Adora in her rant. “I. Don’t. Care.” Catra didn’t wait any longer and pulled Adora to her chest, keeping her arms wrapped around Adora’s waist. Adora only found out about deep pressure stimulation when she was about ten to help her relax, especially her stress levels during the time at the orphanage before Catra was adopted at the age of twelve and left Adora. There were only a select people she’d ask to help with that - Razz, Adam, Catra – back in the orphanage – and possibly Bow or Glimmer if they were around. Catra definitely used to have the best hugs, however, not afraid to go as tight or as loose as Adora wanted. 

Adam usually had his own thing going on during school. Essentially, Adora had always relied on Catra, who gladly helped her when she could. Until she moved away with her new family, around the same time Adora stopped talking to her.

Still, Adora reluctantly sat back against Catra’s chest. Catra grabbed her hands and squeezed them firmly. 

Despite everything, Adora couldn’t help but notice Catra’s hot breath hitting her skin. Her lips brushed against her ear when she asked, “Want it looser or tighter?” Adora grumbled, turning her body so she was sat sideways in Catra’s lap. She buried her head into Catra’s shoulder and continued to grumble incoherently. “Tighter then?” Adora all but nodded and sighed when an overwhelming sense of peace washed over her once Catra tightened her hold.

Catra smiled, almost as if she was proud. “I’m glad you let me do this. I forgot how much it used to calm you down.” 

Adora thumped her arm lightly. “No, you didn’t. Shut up.” Catra squeezed her waist as if to agree with Adora but the second she did, a surge of heat spread up her body and into her head, making her a little dizzy, despite her still shivering from how soaked she still was. 

She had always felt warm around Catra. It wasn’t a completely unfamiliar feeling but one she had definitely missed.

The first time she had felt it was when the two had hugged for the first time. They hadn’t let go of each other for a solid minute. They probably wouldn’t have if the bell hadn’t split them apart. 

This time, she didn’t just feel ‘warm’, but blazing hot, as hot as a furnace. All because she was sitting in her ex-best friend’s lap.

Catra squeezed once more. “You need to get out of these clothes.”

Adora groaned. She stood and proceeded to get out of the clothes. Realising Catra was watching, Adora paused with her tank top halfway up her body, turned to look at Catra over her shoulder and asked, “What are you still doing here?”

Catra visibly gulped, shook her head and gave her a look. “What ?” She snapped when Adora sent her a look back. Catra shrugged. “It’s nothing I haven’t seen before.” 

Adora sputtered, managed to keep her composure as she resumed pulling the top off her body. Until she couldn’t, because it got stuck. To her skin. Because it was dripping with water. It had stopped level with her face, getting caught around the shoulders. 

Catra, completely oblivious to the current situation turned to place clothes into her closet when she caught the sight of Adora struggling – and failing, miserably – to get the stupid top off her stupid muscular wet body. 

“You need some help over there?” Catra snorted, barely suppressing her laughter. 

Adora growled which did nothing but encourage Catra’s enjoyment to escape her lips. “Just get over here would you!?”

Catra cackled impossibly louder. However, Adora was sure she heard the faint padding of Catra’s footsteps making their way over to her. She turned in what she was assuming where Catra had placed herself and huffed. Yep, that was Catra’s smell all right. 

Why was she so close? 

“Okay.” Catra grabbed the hem of the top. “You ready?”

“Why would I not be– Just get it off already. My arm’s getting a cramp.” 

Catra tugged and tugged. Growling, after a few failed attempts, she dug her nails into the fabric and pulled. Suddenly the top was ripped from Adora’s body and the force sent Catra stumbling back. Adora reacted quickly, grabbing Catra’s wrist and pulled. Straight into her chest.

Catra took a deep breath, then looked down at her, and Adora. Their bodies flushed together as one. The top fell limp from Catra’s hand. Adora was breathing heavily, a hand still around Catra’s wrist, the other settled comfortably around her waist. 

Adora couldn’t resist. Catra was just so close, her scent overpowering yet so familiar. How she’d missed it. Their friendship. How close they used to be. How much she loved Catra and could never get enough of her. 

“Are you ... smelling me?” Catra asked, her tone amused, but Adora caught on a hint of nervousness.

“Uh,” Adora stammered as she finally let go of Catra. But if she’d expected Catra to walk away from her she was wrong. So, so wrong. Catra turned, put her hands on Adora’s sides and leant into her. They kissed. The tension in the room that neither of them had noticed flowed through the kiss as they connected.

Adora moved Catra’s arms to her neck and wrapped her own around Catra’s waist, all without disconnecting their lips. If anything the two got even closer, pulling each other in without even realising. Catra’s nails found their way to the blonde locks of hair, gently caressing them.

Adora broke the kiss with a gasp, exhaling deeply. Her forehead hit Catra’s gently.

Then it hit her. Shit.

Fuck!

Shitshitshitshitshitshitshit. What have I done?!

She tried to pull away again but Catra held onto her neck tightly.

“Don’t you dare, Grayskull,” she growled, breathing heavily. 

Adora’s cheeks were noticeably red. “I-I’m s-sorry, I didn’t mean –” Adora stuttered but was cut off with Catra’s lips crashing onto hers once again. 

“Do not apologise for it, you idiot,” Catra mumbled when the kiss broke apart once again. “I’ve wanted to do that for so long.” Catra froze.

“What?” Adora deadpanned. Taking a deep breath, she grinned and gave her nose a boop. “I’ve missed you.” She whispered. 

Catra grumbled to herself. “Of course you did.” Adora smiled and said nothing. “Can you let me go so I can unpack now?”

Adora sputtered out a rushed response. “Yes! Sorry.” Her arms dropped and she stepped back, missing the everlasting feeling of feeling Catra’s body flushed against her own. Then she looked down at herself.

Adora just kissed her best friend in a sports bra and a pair of shorts. She was practically half-naked.

FUCK!

She grabbed random clean pieces of clothing and dived into the bathroom to get changed. Minutes later she came out to see Catra shoving her suitcase underneath her bed.

Adora’s wet clothes were dripping in her hand and she was just staring. 

Get it together Grayskull! 

Nothing like her inner voice to scold herself.

Averting her eyes, Adora cleared her throat, speeding past Catra and settling herself on top of her bed. The wet clothes still in her hand. Eventually, Catra got up and stretched, giving Adora a look while she was doing so. Catra felt her shirt rise and smirked at the growing flush on Adora’s face.

Catra padded across the room and gestured to Adora’s bed. “Can I?”

Before she could answer, Adora’s phone started to ring atop her bedside table. Helplessly shrugging at Catra, she reached over and grabbed it, answering the call.

“Hello?”

“Adora!” Adam’s booming voice came through the speakers. 

“What do you want?”

Adam audibly winced. “Ouch, that was painful sis.”

“I repeat, what do you want?” Adora checked her alarm - it wasn't even 10 AM and Adam was already calling her. 

“We’ve got a class, Grayskull.”

“No, we don’t.”

“Yes, we do.”

“No!”

“Yes!”

Adora groaned. “You don’t have to go dummy.” 

Silence. Catra even sent her a questionable look. “What?” Adam eventually asked.

Adora snorted. “You’re already on the campus for it aren’t you?”

“Adora!” Adam hissed. “Why didn’t you tell me?!”

“I thought you knew!”

“No,” Adam snapped. “I didn’t.”

Adora snorted again and giggled. Catra watched her with narrowed eyes and a smirk plastered on her face. “How long are you gonna be? I need the truck.”

“Well, you could’ve had it now if you had told me that this class was fucking optional!” He huffed. “About twenty minutes.” Adam ended the call which made Adora snort once again.

Throwing her phone onto her comforter, she let out a long sigh. She looked up to see Catra staring at her, silently standing there.

“Have you got any more classes today?” Adora asked.

Chapter Text

“Have you got any more classes today?” Adora asked.

Catra huffed and pulled out her phone to check. “Doesn’t look like it. Why? What did you have in mind?” At that comment, Catra gave her a look and winked. 

“Don’t do that,” Adora whimpered, burying her face into her hands. 

Catra moved and stood between Adora’s legs, placing her hands on the muscular shoulders. She squeezed until Adora raised her head once more. “Why not?” Catra tilted her head to the side and smiled softly. “You can’t tell me you didn’t miss it. I certainly did,” she added quietly. 

“What was that?”

“Nothing.” 

Adora narrowed her eyes. She glanced at Catra’s waist, then back to her heterochromatic eyes, back to her waist again and up to her eyes once more. Silently asking permission. Catra nodded and Adora gripped her hips tightly. 

This wasn’t the first time the two had been...intimate. Growing up with one another until Catra moved away, the two found enjoyment in each other, especially when Adora would get frustrated with her twin brother. Adora didn’t blame Catra for leaving – it wasn’t her fault she got adopted and the twins didn’t. If anything, Adora was glad she got out of the orphanage, away from Shadow Weaver. Away from the pain and experiences that Adora went through.

Shit. Not again.

Shadow Weaver isn’t here. You’re safe.

She can’t hurt you anymore.

Adora shivered. Catra raised an eyebrow down at her but Adora just shook her head. She gently pushed Catra away and got to her feet. 

“Adora?” 

She opened her mouth to respond but she was interrupted by her phone vibrating with an alert. She picked it up. It was Adam – he was back with the truck and on his way up to drop the keys.

“Shit,” Adora breathed out. Catra sent her another questionable look which made Adora nervous. “Adam’s on his way up,” she explained. 

Catra’s shoulders dropped. “Is that a problem?”

“I –”

There was a knock on the door. Adora jumped out of her skin and Catra - well, she just glared. 

The door opened and Adam slumped inside. “Here’s the keys asshole.” He threw them at Adora and walked over to her bed and fell forwards, burying his face in her pillow. Adora barely managed to catch the keys and sent Adam a glare as he walked past. 

He didn’t even notice Catra. 

Adora and Catra shared a look as Adora shoved the truck’s keys into her pocket. “Adam! What are you doing?”

Words came out but they were mumbled and incoherent. He finally looked up when Adora kicked his shin. “OW!” He exclaimed. “What was that for?!”

Adora groaned, bringing up her hand to pinch the bridge of her nose. “Get off my bed! You’ve got your own!”

“Adoraaaaaaa…” Adam moaned.

“What?”

“Yours was closer.”

“That’s it! Get up you lazy fuck.” When he made no indication of moving, Adora launched herself at him, grabbing both of his ankles and pulling backwards.

Adam flailed his arms around, attempting to get a hold of something. “Adora, wait, no! Stop!” At that, Adora pulled even harder and he fell to the floor, along with her blanket and pillow. She dropped his ankles a second later and went to stand next to Catra, arms crossed.

Adam looked up and froze. His eyes went wide. “I –” He stumbled to his feet and rubbed his eyes. “Catra? Is that you?” 

Catra looked away and said nothing, her tail twitching.

Adora snorted. “Took you long enough to notice.” 

Adam ignored her. “What - I - how long has it been?” 

Catra’s ear twitched, the wall still occupying her vision. “Years,” she mumbled. “It’s been a long time.”

And it had been. The twins knew that. Even if Adora and Catra were still the closest out of the three, Adam had still had his fair adventures with Catra before she left. The two had a lot of fun together. Catra looked up to Adam so when she left it was a disaster because she had no one. Once Adora stopped communication with her, Adam seemed to follow again, and Catra never knew why. Maybe it was because he was sad she was leaving. Who knows? 

Catra had no intention to find out the actual reason. She couldn’t go through that again.

Adam nodded slowly. “Well, are you busy?”

This made Catra finally look over to Adora’s twin brother with wide eyes. He had grown much taller, similar to Adora who had seemed to shoot up as well. He was bigger too, with much broader shoulders and wider arms and legs – apparently also a gym nerd like his sister.

Catra looked to Adora again then back to Adam. “Well, I mean –”

“Yes,” Adora interrupted. “She’s – I mean, we’re busy.”

“We are?” Catra asked. “But you just pushed me away –”

Adam cleared his throat. “You two are ‘busy’ – I get it, I’ll just get out of your hair.” He couldn’t leave fast enough, pulling the door shut swiftly after himself.

Adora sighed. She loved her brother but by god, he could be dense sometimes. Is that how bad she was? She cleared her floor and made her bed. Surely she wasn’t – was she?

“ Adora! ”Adora screamed and glared at Catra. She smiled sheepishly, “You zoned out again.”

Adora huffed. “Yeah well, you didn’t have to scare me.”

“Oh, I did,” Catra replied with a smirk. God, Catra loved being cocky.

“Fuck you,” Adora grumbled, straightening out her blanket.

“Fuck me yourself, coward.”

Adora froze and turned back to Catra. 

“You’re a coward Adora.”

"No, I’m not!" Adora screamed, stamping her foot.

“Then be a good little girl and put everyone’s dirty laundry in the basket.” Miss Weaver hovered in front of her. 

“But they’re not my clothes! I don’t want to touch anyone else’s dirty clothes, it’s too hard and gross!”

“ Adora .” Miss Weaver snapped. “If you don’t do as you’re told, there will be consequences for you and everyone else, including your little brother and Catra.” 

Adora didn’t want that, she didn’t want anyone else getting in trouble because of her. It wasn’t nice when Miss Weaver told her off but she didn’t want anyone else to experience it. Sniffling, she dropped to the floor of the bathroom and picked up every single item of clothing and dropped it in the basket next to Miss Weaver. 

“Good. Now go to everyone’s rooms, including your own and get their laundry too.”

“Yes, Miss Weaver,” Adora mumbled. She wasn’t going to argue that she would wake everyone since that would just infuriate Miss Weaver even more than she already was. She stepped out of the bathroom and headed to her room first since it was the closest.

“Adora?” Her blood ran cold as she stopped in her tracks. “Aren’t you forgetting something?”

Adora turned and went back to grab the basket, dragging it along behind her as it was too big and heavy for her little arms to carry. 

“I want you done in 15 minutes. Anything later than that – you know what will happen.” Adora just nodded and entered her room she shared with her brother. Luckily he was fast asleep and snoring in his bed so he didn’t notice Adora sniffling and crying. She was glad he was asleep – she wasn’t sure she could exactly explain to him what was going on. 

Once she finished, she left quietly and headed to the next room. And the next, and the next. She kept going until she hit the last room in the house – Catra’s. 

“What?” Adora breathed.

“You heard me.” Catra chuckled but soon stopped when she saw the look of pure horror on Adora’s face. “Adora?”

Tears stung her eyes. “Why would you say that?” Her hands started shaking.

“Say what?” Then it hit her. Shadow Weaver used to call Adora a coward constantly and use it against her. “Oh god, Adora.” She advanced but stopped when Adora moved back from her. “I didn’t mean – it’s a joke I saw on Tumblr and thought it was funny. I’m so sorry, I didn’t even think .”

Adora shook her head. Her hands were still shaking, even worse than before. She knew Catra meant nothing by it but that didn’t stop the memories resurfacing at the front of her brain. Instead, she forced herself to say, “I need to go.”

“I – what? Adora, you can’t go out like this.”

“Why not?” Adora snapped with shallow, quick breaths. 

Catra’s tail started twitching side to side. “Because you’re having an episode!”

Adora pulled out her car keys. “I don’t care. It’s better being out there than here.”

“Adora!” Catra shouted as she stormed out of their room and slammed the door shut.

Adora got outside and looked up to the sky – she got wet instantly. It was still storming outside – of course, it was. Groaning, she unlocked the truck as she jogged over, jumping in and turning the engine on. She pulled out of the parking lot and onto the main road.

Catra would not stop pacing. It was driving the people in the rooms underneath her crazy. She couldn’t help it. She was worried about Adora, who had been gone all day. She contemplated contacting Adam – she had no way to do that but she would’ve figured something out.

Catra glanced at her phone screen once more - the time read 10:13 PM. Adora had stormed out around 9 AM and had yet to return and all Catra could think of was the worst.

Was Adora going to cut ties with her once again, as she had done many years ago?

No.

Catra would not allow it. Not this time. 

It wasn’t fair what Adora did to her. Catra at least deserved the truth… right? Catra couldn’t stop herself from getting adopted into a loving family - hell, that was one of the best days of her life. She finally managed to get out of that stupid orphanage and she would never have to see the likes of that horrible bitch Shadow Weaver again. 

On the contrary, it was also the worst day of her life, because she was leaving her best friend and the girl she was in love with. Alone. With their carer. 

Catra would never forgive herself for that. 

Ever.

“Catra, hurry up with your packing! They’ll be here soon.”

Catra growled under her breath. “Yes, Miss Weaver!” Placing the last of her toys in her rucksack, twelve-year-old Catra moved onto her suitcase which was half-filled with clothes, shoes and her mini collection of art prints and posters that Weaver begrudgingly let her keep up in her room. 

She paused as she went to grab the photo frame from her windowsill. It was a picture of just her and Adora. They were hugging tightly in the picture, around the time they first met. Adam had secretly found a disposable camera and snuck a shot of the two when they were starting to get close.

Catra’s tail and arms were wrapped around Adora’s waist with her arms wrapped tightly around Catra’s neck. It was the first time in a while that the two were happy. It was nice while it lasted. 

They hadn’t been that happy in so long. Adora had seemed so distant lately and Catra couldn’t understand or figure out why. Adora would just brush her off every time Catra checked in on her.

Sighing, Catra grabbed the frame and placed it gently into her suitcase, on top of some of the clothes to cushion it. 

Her ear twitched briefly.

A second later her door slammed open and almost immediately shut again. Catra’s head whipped around to glare at the intruder, gaze softening when she realised who had barged into her room.

Adora stumbled over some random piece of clothing – which made Catra snort – making her way over to where Catra kneeled as she finished packing. Adora dropped down beside her, leaning her head into her best friend’s shoulder. 

Silence passed between the two for a few minutes. Adora felt Catra’s chest rise and fall with each breath. Clenching her eyes shut, she tried to take a hold of this moment and make it a memory. She was going to miss it.

“Catra!” Miss Weaver called.

This made Adora instinctively flinch and Catra felt that . “Yes?” Catra called back, taking a glance down at Adora who had finally moved off her shoulder.

“Scorpia and her parents are here. Hurry up now and do not keep them waiting.”

“Yes, Miss Weaver!” Catra wiped her hands on her jeans as she stood. Adora had settled on her bed, her face buried into Catra’s blanket. “Adora?” She mumbled.

Adora’s head shot up and Catra saw the tears threatening to escape. “Don’t leave me Catra. Please.”

Catra swore her heart shattered into a million pieces right then and there. “I – I don’t have a choice. Scorpia’s family is so loving and this is my chance to get out of here.” She settled herself beside Adora and wrapped her up in her arms, a purr rumbling deep in her chest. “I have to go Adora. They’re waiting for me.” 

Adora nodded against her shoulder. The last words Adora ever whispered to her were, “I’m sorry.” 

Catra never knew why until a few days later. She tried and tried to get Adora to contact her but to no avail. Eventually, Catra stopped trying a few weeks later. 

Catra knew leaving Adora that day was a mistake. She should’ve fought harder. Weaver’s treatment towards Adora had gotten worse and Catra hadn’t even known. Until that moment when the two realised that they were once again roommates.

Catra knew Adora, even after all these years. She was still the girl that Catra had fallen in love with and she was bound to do it again.

There was no controlling it.

Catra just knew it was going to happen again sooner or later. 

Adora stumbled back into their dorm around 11 PM. She had been gone fourteen hours – not that she was keeping track or anything. It was the longest she had disappeared for. 

At least she came back this time.

Shutting their door, Adora kicked off her shoes and placed the truck’s keys on her chest of drawers. Spinning towards her bed, Adora stopped. Catra was sitting there with her legs crossed together, head buried in her hands.

“Catra?” Adora slurred slightly.

Catra visibly stiffened and raised her head, hands falling to rest in her lap. She took in Adora’s state and her eyes narrowed, nose twitching as she sniffed the air once, twice. “Are you drunk?”

Adora cackled at that. “Pfft, what? Nooooo, of course not.” She hiccuped. “I’m tipsy – there’s a difference.” 

“Where have you been ?”

“I went for a drive.”

Catra scoffed. “I gathered that.” She gestured wildly at Adora’s frame. “You’re also soaked to the skin, did you notice that?” 

Adora looked down at herself. Huh. What do you know? She was soaked to the skin. Was it still raining outside? Adora giggled. “I couldn’t feel it.”

Catra groaned at that. “You’re probably hypothermic that’s why.” She jumped off the bed, her tail lashing violently. “We need to get you out of those clothes.”

Adora glared – well, she attempted to anyway in her drunk state. “No.”

Catra paused in her stride towards the dumb drunk blonde. “And why not?”

“Because I need to finish my drink.” Adora pulled a bottle from behind her back.

Catra gaped at her. “Don’t tell me you drove back here drunk .”

“I drove back here drunk.”

“ Adora !”

“What? I’m fine , see?” Adora hopped away from Catra’s reach and stumbled, climbing onto her bed. “Not dead.” 

“Adora…” Catra shook her head.

Adora couldn't tell what she was thinking, her head was too fuzzy to even focus on herself, let alone her ex-best friend. Why was she drunk? She stormed out because she felt an attack coming on but that was all she could remember because the next minute she was back in her dorm room, arguing with Catra.

Honestly? It was nothing new. The two used to bicker all the time.

Adora shot her head back and downed the rest of her drink. “Finished now,” she stated, throwing the bottle in the trash can she had beside her bed.

Catra only stared which made Adora feel dizzy and somewhat uncomfortable. Adora couldn’t understand what was wrong with Catra. All she had done was leave the situation that was causing her stress and decided to have a drink to ignore all of her current problems, one of which included Catra herself.

It was not a healthy choice but it was the only one she could think of that was quick and easy. She was going to regret it in the morning when classes started but right now all she could care about was that it was working.

Until Catra opened her mouth.

“I was worried about you.”

Adora fell into a sitting position. “Why?” She asked, seemingly somewhat sober.

“Why wouldn’t I be?” Adora shrugged and Catra let out a small growl. “Was this payback or something? Because of the triggers that I caused you today?” When Adora said nothing still, Catra kept going. “Or for when I left you at the orphanage? Huh? Answer me !”

Adora stared at her feet, crossing them at the ankles. Then her eyes widened. “Catra?”

Catra was breathing heavily after that short outburst. “What?” She snapped, assuming Adora had just ignored her questions.

“I think – I need to –”

Catra’s eyes also doubled in size. Ah. Right . So she wasn’t being ignored. “Bathroom?” Adora nodded quickly and Catra leapt into action, pulling her to her feet and practically pushing her towards the toilet. Her head got to the bowl just in time. Catra cringed at the smell but held her hair back just the same, rubbing Adora’s back with the other. “Just get it all out then we’ll talk, okay?”

It took her about an hour. 

Adora hadn’t drunk that much. 

Groaning, Adora slumped on the floor against her bed frame. Catra came in from their bathroom a couple of minutes later with a toothbrush and toothpaste, a bowl and some water.

“Here.” Shoving the items into Adora’s arms, she took a seat next to her, a couple of inches between the two.

Adora smiled softly at her, a thank you. She brushed her teeth and drank the full glass of water. “I’m sorry.”

Catra waved her off. “It’s whatever.”

“No, it’s not. I had no reason to let you worry like that. I should have let you know that I was okay.” Catra gave her a sideways sneer. “What?”

“You’re not obligated to Adora. It’s not like we’re together or even friends right now.” Catra was blushing furiously as she said this. 

“But we are roommates.”

“God, if you have such a problem with it, I’ll just get myself transferred –”

Adora poked her side, making Catra jump. “Who said I had a problem with it?”

“You didn’t.” Catra deadpanned. “Your attitude did.”

“Catra, no…” Adora shuffled sideways, ever closer to the girl next to her. Close enough to reach out and place a comforting hand on the girl’s knee. “We’re fine. I’m glad we’re roommates.”

Catra’s cheeks were burning once again. She looked away. “Well, you have an odd fucking way of showing it.”

Adora laughed. “Can’t deny that.” She rubbed her thumb over Catra’s clothed covered knee, removing her hand to grasp her own. “I am sorry though. It’s going to take us a while to get used to living with each other again. It’s also going to be hard for me, I won’t deny that. All I ask for is some space for a few days while I gather and organise all the thoughts flying around my head. I know, I don’t deserve it after everything I’ve done but this is the only thing that I will ask of you.”

Catra knew this was fair, she couldn’t deny that. She owed Adora at least that much. Catra nodded. “Okay.”

Adora smiled softly, deflating a little. “Thank you.”

“Can I just ask for one thing right now?”

Adora took a second to answer. “Depends what it is.”

Catra internally scolded herself. Shit. “Can I hug you?”

“Oh!” Adora chuckled. “Yeah. If that’s okay with you.”

“Of course it is dummy.”

Before Catra could even move, Adora grabbed her waist and pulled her into her body. Catra’s legs ended up on either side of Adora’s hips – she could feel her face getting hot.

She coughed awkwardly. “Well, I meant a platonic hug but –”

“Catra?”

“Yeah?”

“Shut up.”

Catra ended up smirking down at her and rested her forearms on Adora’s broad shoulders. “I hope you’re aware this is not helping me at all .”

Adora winked. “It’s not helping me either.” She squeezed Catra’s waist.  

They were both lying and they both knew it. They were just too stubborn to admit it to each other. Regardless, Catra nuzzled into Adora’s chest as a purr began to rumble out of her body. “I’m sorry too Adora,” Catra whispered softly.

Adora pulled her impossibly tighter. “I know.” She hadn’t quite forgiven Catra for what she had done but at the end of the day, it wasn’t her fault. Adora knew that. She just had to rationalise her brain into agreeing with her so she could get onto the road of forgiving Catra from the incident all those years ago. She slipped her hands just underneath Catra’s top and ran her fingers through her fur at the base of her spine. “I know Catra.” 

Adora’s head was pounding and she definitely needed some painkillers. She wasn’t about to ruin this moment.

Catra shifted herself which caused Adora to tilt her head down at the cat girl in her arms. She had moved sideways, leaning her head over Adora’s heart. “Drinking isn’t exactly the best coping mechanism you know."

Adora just groaned.

Chapter Text

Immediately after Catra finished unpacking her clothes into her closet, she grabbed her guitar and escaped their room, leaving Adora snoring peacefully in her bed. She was going to have the worst hangover and honestly? Catra was not mentally prepared to deal with that, especially after last night. 

Her tail twitched as she locked the door and shoved her key into her guitar case. The twitch meant nothing. She was fine. 

They had a few days until classes would start so she had some time to kill. Catra was still waiting for the rest of her possessions to arrive from the previous university that she attended – Horde Academy. It was where her adoptive moms went to school so of course they wanted both Catra and Scorpia to go to the same school as them.

So they did.

For a term or two.

Catra had hated it. It reminded her of Weaver almost every day. The rules were strict and the uniform was a requirement. Scorpia only loved it because that was where they met their best friend Entrapta, but she didn’t have the heart to tell their moms that they were both struggling.

Catra told their moms for the both of them and they were immediately transferred to Brightmoon for the rest of the time they had left to complete their degrees.

Catra had managed to achieve a scholarship in performance and songwriting with a minor in the music business. She wasn’t quite sure what Scorpia did – just because she kept changing her mind – and all she knew about Entrapta was that she was a computer nerd so she knew it was a degree in some form of technology.

Regardless, Catra loved them both with all of her heart. She wouldn’t be the same without them.

Unfortunately though, due to how late they came to Brightmoon, only Scorpia and Entrapta were able to share a room. Catra, at the time, was completely fine with that, until she realised who she would be sharing with for the rest of the year.

Now that was a shock to her system that she was definitely not prepared for. She had loved Adora when they were growing up together and had continued to when she had left her at that horrible place. Even when Adora cut contact, Catra couldn’t but let her heart long to have her best friend back. However, Catra can’t help still being mad at Adora for being silent all these years. 

Catra growled at the thought, making a student jump who stalked past. Catra was still standing outside her door. She moved her feet and made her way down to the music practice rooms where a few of her fellow students were practising.

There was a drummer, violinist and cellist. 

Catra waved at them and set her guitar down on the ground before sitting down at the piano. Her fingers ran across the keys, playing a high pitched melody. 

The other students stopped playing their instruments and stared over at Catra. 

“What?” Catra snapped, pulling her hands away from the piano.

“You know that song?” The drummer asked.

“What song?”

“It’s you said you’d grow old with me by Michael Schulte,” the violinist replied with a chuckle.

Oh, so that’s what it was from. Catra only learnt the piano section because she thought it was pretty.

Catra scoffed. “I knew that.” Her fingers – with her claws retracted of course – once again rested on the keys. 

“Are you new here?” The drummer spoke louder. It made Catra’s ear twitch.

“I just transferred over from the Horde Academy.” Catra glanced over at the cellist – he wasn’t saying much. Scratch that, he wasn't talking at all.

The violin player set her instrument gently on a table and made her way over to the piano. “That’s so weird.”

Catra raised an eyebrow. “What is?”

The drummer boy laughed. He was a scrawny blonde kid that looked about twelve. “We transferred from the Horde Academy too.”

Catra was dumbstruck, jaw dropped and eyes wide. “No shit?” She glanced over at the cellist again and he just nodded. “How long have you guys been here?”

“Since the first term,” the violin girl answered. “What’s your name, new girl?”

Catra stood and stuck her hand out, – may as well be nice if she’s about to spend the rest of the year with these defected from the academy. “I’m Catra.”

“Lonnie.” They shook hands. Lonnie had a strong grip. “The drummer is Kyle and the cellist over there is Rogelio. Don’t mind him though, he doesn’t speak much.”

Catra laughed. “Yeah, I gathered that.” She sat at the piano once again. “I’ve got loads of time to kill so do you guys wanna play that song you mentioned with me?”

“Sure new girl,” Lonnie smirked.

They practised for hours.

By the time Adora’s eyes peeled open, it was far too late to eat breakfast or lunch. She knew that because she could see the sun setting right out her window. Groaning with a hand pressed to her head, she sat up and pulled her legs out from under the covers. She fumbled for the light switch and sighed with relief once her eyes adjusted. 

Eventually, she dragged her head up and noticed Catra was vacant from their room. Whatever, she has her own things to do. It’s not up to Adora to keep track of what she does anymore. Lifting an arm, Adora turned to smell her armpit and retaliated with a retch.

Did she smell that bad?

Whatever.

Nothing a nice cold shower won’t fix. 

What else can she do?

Catra was nowhere to be found and she was too hungover to even attempt contacting her friends on her bright phone screen. 

She also missed Razz, and Mara, her mother.

She missed how things used to be between her and Catra, how easy it was, how Adora could rely on her when she needed her the most.

Until Catra left her.

The thought caused tears to sting in Adora’s eyes.

She wiped them away furiously.

No.

She can’t think like that.

She won’t.

But she did leave you, a thought whispered. She left you and never came back for you.

“Stop it.”

She left you and Adam in that godforsaken place to rot.

Adora’s hands found her hair and began tugging, desperately trying to get rid of all the unwanted thoughts. “Stop it!”

You cannot forgive her, she’s done enough damage.

Adora hated to admit it, but her thoughts had a point.

Adora cut contact for the sole reason to protect Catra. But maybe, just maybe, Adora stopped talking to her because she left. Catra promised to stay with her and she left. 

And that?

That wasn’t fair.

Catra even promised to send letters.

Even if she had, none of them had ever reached Adora. 

She could never know for sure, unless –

No.

She was never going back to that orphanage ever again. 

Adora needed to shower. That would distract her enough.

Stumbling to her feet, she locked herself in the bathroom and got under the stream of ice cold water. 

At least it was a nice shock to the system.

Catra pressed the keys of her last chord and exclaimed excitedly. “Wow guys, that was actually really fun.” The others agreed in unison, making Catra smile. It soon dropped when she saw what time it was. “Shit guys, I have to run. I’ll see y’all around?”

Kyle and Rogelio just waved, Lonnie shouting after her, “Sure thing Catra!” as she ran out of the practice room with her guitar in one hand and phone in the other.

She made it back to her dorm room in record time. Taking a deep breath, she pulled out her key and placed it in the lock, turning it slowly. 

The door creaked open and Catra peered in silently.

Empty.

Thank god for that.

Catra was exhausted.

The minute Catra landed on her bed, Adora stumbled out of the bathroom with a towel wrapped around her shoulders, skin glistening from her shower, wearing nothing but a pair of boy shorts and a sports bra. An arm behind her head was rubbing her hair with the towel, the muscles flexing in the dim bathroom light. 

Catra tore away her eyes almost immediately, her face heating up, ears twitching. Adora coughed and walked over silently to her own bed, dropping the towel from around her shoulders and taking a sip of water from the glass beside her bed. 

If Adora had noticed how red Catra was, she didn’t bring it up, nor dared to.

After a few minutes, Catra was starting to get sick of the silence. She scoffed, turned to face Adora sideways and asked, “How are you feeling?”

Adora raised an eyebrow and shrugged. “Fine, I guess?”

“Good.” Catra nodded and turned her attention to her guitar.

Adora said nothing in reply - she wasn’t exactly in the mood to have a heart to heart when she was feeling so shit. Granted, it was her own fault for feeling so bad so she couldn’t exactly complain either. She knew she should apologise again to Catra, she knew it. Adora was just too stubborn, especially with a god awful hangover fucking with her body.

Laying back on her bed with a sigh, Adora checked her phone. She could always invite Adam over. Then again, he would just give her shit for how she looks in her current state and Adora could not be bothered to kick her twin brother’s ass right now. 

Adora threw her phone to her bed in frustration. The sound of Catra’s fingers running across the guitar strings stopped. Adora huffed again.

“Wanna talk about it?”

“Absolutely not.”

“Fine. Continue to mope. See if I care.”

“I am not moping.”

Catra snorted. “Yeah, sure you’re not.” 

“I’m not!” Adora retaliated. This made Catra laugh.

“Nice comeback Grayskull.” Catra delicately placed her guitar back into its case and balanced it on the side of her bed. “How’s your head?”

“Awful,” Adora snapped. 

“Well that’s what happens when you drink too much,” Catra deadpanned. Adora knew she had a point, she was too stubborn to admit it out loud. Sighing much louder than needing to, Adora drew her gaze away from her ex-best friend whom in the space of a few days she had already cuddled with and kissed. Catra does the same with a flick of an ear. 

Grumbling, Adora sat up, legs crossed and side-eyed Catra. “Sorry,” she mumbled half-heartedly.

Catra’s head snapped up at the sound. “Sorry, what was that?”

“I’m sorry,” Adora repeated.

Catra hummed, getting to her feet as she did so and made her way across their small dorm room. “For what exactly?”

“Ugh, Catra –”

“I won’t know until you tell me, Adora, so you may as well just spill.” Catra smirked.  Adora sent her a glare. “Well that’s not very nice, is it?”

“I am sorry for driving back to the campus while drunk. And for making you worry. And for coming back so late.” Adora watched Catra settle on the bed in front of her with a sullen look. “I’m sorry,” she said again, thinking, hoping it would help her feel better. 

Surprise! 

It didn’t.

At least her tone sounded genuine.

Catra looked down, gripping Adora’s blanket with her hands, feeling her claws digging into the fabric. She wasn’t mad. Not anymore. Maybe it was because of the way Adora apologised meaningfully or the way she felt. Catra couldn’t imagine the hangover was doing her any wonders right now.

When Catra raised her head, Adora noticed she looked taken aback, eyes brimming with tears and eyebrows furrowed. Adora held her gaze with Catra. The two were silent, bar from the random sniffles emitting from Catra’s body. It had been a while since Adora had seen Catra this emotional.

However, Adora also remembered to let Catra take her own time with it, she would speak up when she was ready. That was the good thing about these two – even after years apart, they still understood each other better than anyone else could. Not even Scorpia knew Catra, as well as Adora, did, and vice versa with Glimmer, Bow and Adora. 

Catra could argue she was tied with Adam because let’s face it, they’re twins. 

Catra eventually takes a deep breath, loosening her grip on the blanket. Adora’s head cocked in confusion. “What?” Catra asked. 

“I’m just…” Adora trailed off, fiddling with her fingers. “I don’t understand.” Her tone was blunt, with a hint of perplexity.  Now it was Catra’s turn to cock her own head. “Did we not talk about this yesterday?”

Catra shrugged. “You were drunk Adora.”

Adora nodded. “Right, yeah.” She cleared her throat. “But we’re good now, right?” She nudged Catra’s knee with her foot.

“I guess so.”

Adora did not miss the slight drop in Catra’s ears. “You guess so?” She shuffled forward enough to get their knees touching each other. “What do you mean, you guess?” Catra’s eyes widened, the tip of her tail flicking at the side of her leg. Adora watched her carefully, linking her fingers through Catra’s and lowering their hands to her lap. “Catra…if you don’t want to talk about it, that’s fine.” Adora squeezed her hands gently. “If or when you do, I’ll be here.”

“You – you just worried me that’s all.”

Adora snorted. “There’s definitely more than that.”

Catra snatched her hands back and swiped at Adora playfully, who ducked just at the right time to avoid the impact.

“Hey! I’m trying to help you woman, jeez.” 

Catra crossed her arms and looked away. “Yeah, well, I don’t need your help. I coped just fine after you stopped talking to me and I’m coping just fine now.”

Well.

Shit.

Adora hadn’t expected how much the snipe at her would make her feel.

Fuck.

Adora scooted back, hugging her knees to her chest. 

She did the right thing. She was protecting Catra.

Wasn’t she?

She had to be. Miss Weaver left her alone after she left with Scorpia. At least Adora hoped she did. She had no idea what their carer got up to in her spare time from looking after orphaned children. 

Adora waved goodbye to Catra from her bedroom window, watching as her best friend got into the car and drove away, never to be seen again. Adam had accompanied her but soon left her room without a second thought. That, and Miss Weaver had strutted into the room, announcing her presence quite loudly.

“Adora. Get off the windowsill.” Miss Weaver snapped.

Adora did as she was told. It was never good to argue when the carer had that tone. “I was just waving bye to Catra.”

“Good riddance that she’s gone. She was a nuisance and a hindrance towards you.” Adora wasn’t sure what a hindrance was. “Now you will finally be able to focus on your chores and school work without that brat distracting you.”

“But she was my friend.” Adora sniffled. “My best friend.”

Miss Weaver stepped further into the room and towered over the small girl. “She isn’t anymore. You will never see her again, Adora. I don’t want you having her in your life. You don’t deserve her.”

Adora pulled out the slip of paper with Scorpia’s address on it and fumbled it with her fingers. What Adora didn’t realise was how big of a mistake she had just made. Miss Weaver snatched the paper out of her hands.

“No! That’s mine!”

Miss Weaver glared at the child below her as she unfolded the paper. “What is this Adora?”

“It’s nothing! Give it back!”

It was certainly not nothing.

Adora saw Miss Weaver’s brow twitch and took a couple of steps back. 

“Why do you have Scorpia’s address on this piece of paper Adora?”

Adora swallowed. She wasn’t sure how to explain this without getting in trouble. “Her moms gave it to me so I could write letters to Catra…” 

“What did I just say about Catra?” Adora didn’t reply. Miss Weaver stepped closer and dropped to Adora’s eye level. “Answer me, Adora.”

“That - that I don’t deserve Catra and I don’t need her in my life.” Adora was shaking. This angered her carer even more. Miss Weaver grabbed her wrist, holding it in a vice like grip as she pulled Adora to the corner of her room and placed her facing the wall. 

That’s when the tears started to fall. Adora kept silent.

“If I ever catch you trying to contact Catra, there will be dire consequences, to the both of you. Do you understand?”

Adora silently gasped. “Yes – yes Miss Weaver.” Adora couldn’t risk it, there was no telling what her carer might do to her, or Catra.

“Good. Now clean up your room. I want it tidy by dinner. It’s a mess.” Miss Weaver turned and left, slamming Adora’s bedroom door shut behind her.

The poor blonde-haired girl fell to the floor, sobbing as she rocked back and forth, trying to control her breathing.

Catra really did not want to break into Adora’s phone. She had no other choice. She didn’t have Adam’s number, nor Gimmer’s or Bow’s. She only had three attempts to get the passcode right. 

Her own birthday?

TWO ATTEMPTS REMAINING flashed across the screen.

Mara’s anniversary?

ONE ATTEMPT REMAINING.

Think Catra, think.

She had it. If she was wrong, then Adora’s phone would be permanently locked for the next hour. She can’t be right. Can she?

Would it be her own birthday?

Catra typed her date of birth into the phone. Miraculously, it unlocked. Catra could not believe Adora’s passcode was her own fucking birthday. That was a conversation for another day.

Catra scrolled through her contacts and selected Adam’s, pressing call.

He answered almost immediately.

“Why the fuck are you calling me at this ungodly hour Adora?!” Catra cleared her throat, which made Adam go silent. “This isn’t Adora at all is it?”

“Sorry to disappoint you.”

“Catra ?!”

“Hi Adam.”

“Why are you calling me at this ungodly hour, with Adora’s phone nonetheless?!”

“I – Adora’s frozen and she’s not responding to me. She’s been acting distant for the past ten minutes and I – I think it’s my fault again .”

Shuffling noises came from the phone’s speaker. “Woah Catra, calm down. It’s gonna be okay. I’m coming right up to you guys now.”

Adam hung up as he barged through their dorm door. He glanced between the two a few times. “How long has she been like this?” He mumbled, sitting in front of his sister.

Catra glanced at the time on Adora’s alarm clock. “About fifteen minutes now. Is she okay?”

Adam nodded and faced Adora. Catra started to pace. “Hey sis,” he spoke softly, quietly. “Can you hear me?” Adora still had a distant look in her eye, but nodded yes to Adam anyway. “That’s good,” He muttered to Catra. “Are you okay?” Adora shook her head no. “Right. Can I touch you?” A no. “Do you want to be alone?” It took Adora a few seconds, she decided that she did not want to be alone.

Adam looked over at Catra and back to Adora with raised eyebrows. Adora nodded a slight yes. 

“Catra.”

“Yes?” She paused in her pacing, her tail thrashing from side to side.

“She wants you.”

“What?!” Adam ignored her and pulled her to where she was just sat twenty minutes ago. Adam gestured to Adora and took himself to the opposite side of the dorm to give them some privacy.

Catra looked back at Adora who moved her eyes downward slightly. “Can I touch you?” Catra asked nervously.

“Please.” Catra’s heart tightened listening to how desperate Adora sounded. 

“Okay, okay, I’m right here.” Catra shuffled forward, winding her arms around Adora’s waist. Adora returned the embrace quickly, burying her face into Catra’s chest, her body shaking with soft sobs. 

It was more like Catra’s breasts but we can focus on that another time.

Catra shared a worried look with Adam. She started to rock the two of them, rubbing Adora’s back soothingly. “Shh, Adora, its okay. I’m here for you.” The girl in her arms sniffled and started to mumble something against Catra’s shirt. “Adora, I can’t hear you. You’ll have to speak up.”

Adora groaned and turned her head so her mouth was free. “I said, I forgot how comfy you were.” Catra’s cheeks felt like they had been set on fire. “Can we lie down?”

“I – of course we can. Whatever you want.”

“Adam, turn the light off on your way out please.”

Adam froze in whatever he was doing and jumped to his feet. “Well, that didn’t take long. See you two lovebirds later!”

Catra growled at him. “We are not love–” the door slamming shut stopped her in her tracks. “God that boy is annoying,” Catra muttered. 

Adora pulled Catra down to the mattress with a yelp. They were on their sides, Catra’s arm still around Adora’s waist. “You’re telling me,” Adora mumbled. “I had to share a womb with the man.”

Catra chuckled. “That’s a good point Grayskull.” It was dark in their dorm thanks to Adam. It didn’t matter to Catra really, it helped to have night vision. She pulled Adora closer and tightened her hold. “Are you okay?”

Adora shuffled and placed her forehead on Catra’s. Letting out a content sigh, she whispered, “I am now.” 

“I’m sorry I didn’t know what to do. I just panicked.”

“It’s okay.”

“I also had to break into your phone to call Adam as I didn’t know what dorm he was in.” Catra continued to ramble, apologising profusely and jotting Adora’s head about.

“Catra.” She paused, keeping as still as a stone. “You’re fine. I should be the one apologising.”

“Was it a flashback?” 

Adora entwined each of their legs together and nodded. “It’s something I’ve been working on for years so it’s still an ongoing process.” Adora nuzzled Catra’s nose. “I’ve missed you. A lot.”

Catra’s chest started to rumble with a purr. She didn’t even attempt to stop it. “I’ve missed you too.”

“Can you kiss me?”

Catra shivered at the thought of kissing her ex-best friend/roommate again. “Are you sure?” Adora nodded. “You’re not going to regret it again?”

Adora scoffed. “I didn’t regret it the first time,” she replied, shoving Catra playfully.

“So how do you wanna do this?”

“I – sorry, what?”

“You want me on top, or?”

Adora’s eyes shot open and she glared at Catra’s. Taking it as a challenge, she swung her legs over Catra’s own and sat on her hips. “Like you could ever top me, kitty .”

Catra snorted. “Are you sure about that?”

Adora grabbed Catra’s wrists gently and pinned them above her head, leaning in close to whisper inside her ear. “I’m absolutely positive.” Catra said nothing, her ear flicking against Adora’s breath. 

“Don’t test me,” Catra warned, shuffling below Adora’s legs.

“What if I want to?” Adora quipped back, a smirk on her face.

Catra moved like lightning. Within seconds she managed to flip the blonde onto her back and pin her own wrists above her head. Adora couldn’t feel Catra’s claws – she must’ve have retracted them for her benefit.

How sweet of her.

Catra leaned down, her lips a breath away from Adora’s. “I told you not to test me.”

Adora leaned up to press her lips to Catra’s, who had pulled away just at the last minute. “Hey, no fair…”

Catra squeezed her wrists gently and let them go. “Adora?”

“What?” She shuffled impatiently, her hands holding onto Catra’s hips.

“I want to make sure you want me to kiss you.”

“I –” Adora took a second. “I’m sure Catra,” she told the girl above her sternly. “Please. I need you.”

Catra brought her hands down to rest just beneath Adora’s chin. She leaned into the touch eagerly, slipping her eyes shut for a second with a soft sigh. “You promise?” Catra whispered.

“I promise you Catra. I want this.” Adora blinked slowly, sliding her hands lazily up and down Catra’s sides. “I want you .”

Catra fisted Adora’s shirt and pulled her up. 

“Okay,” she simply said.

Adora smiled.

This was going to be good.