#catriona ignacio | 001

[akashxbedi]

Akash huffed a quiet laugh, shaking his head as he leaned back slightly. “It tells me that you’re determined to collect credit where it’s due,” he said dryly, though there was a flicker of amusement in his expression. But she wasn’t wrong—he had a habit of circling around self-awareness without always following through. He could acknowledge the things that needed to change, but taking that next step? That was harder. “I hear you,” he admitted after a pause. “It’s just—falling doesn’t scare me. Staying down does.” It was something he’d been reckoning with for a while now. The burnout, the weight of his work, the way he kept himself in a cycle of late nights and early mornings like stopping would somehow make everything unravel. He wasn’t naive—he knew he was running on fumes, and still, the idea of slowing down felt more like losing control than finding balance.

Her suggestion about working at the clinic or the stables made his brow lift slightly, not in outright rejection but in consideration. It wasn’t the worst idea. It was different, at least. The last time he’d been around horses was in college, when a friend had dragged him out to an upstate retreat for the weekend. He remembered liking them well enough, their steady presence, their unspoken trust. Maybe that was the appeal. Something outside himself, outside of work, that didn’t demand justification. “I’ll think about it,” he said finally, though this time it wasn’t a dismissal. “No promises, but I’ll let you know.”

At her joke about being psychic, he smirked, shaking his head. “I’ll give you that one. But if you start predicting my closing arguments in court, I’m going to be concerned.” His gaze flicked to the food, then back to her. “And yeah, it’s good. So, guess you’re right again.” He exhaled, something lighter settling in his chest. “Not that I’ll ever hear the end of it.” The relationship he shared with Catriona was one he valued quite a bit because not only did she give it to him straight but it felt comfortable to be open and honest with her.

Setting aside her meal for a little break, she took a napkin to clean herself up before pausing and narrowing her gaze at Akash, “I’m sensing a pattern here.” she said at first with a grin. “It’s either I’m right or not wrong...What does that tell you, hm?” She wanted him to acknowledge his self-awareness, but at the same time she wouldn’t mind if she had gotten credit as well for making him realize things about himself. “Yeah, but it’s okay to fall sometimes…” Her voice trailed off as she initially felt the same way. The end of her career was a massive fall, to the point where she didn’t think she could bounce back from it. However, life had a way of turning things around when she had least expected it. It wasn’t easy, but it took a lot of resilience and self-preservation to get by. “What matters is either how you land or how you get up. It starts and ends with you, but I also believe you don’t have to go through it alone.” 

Confused at the refusal of an incentive, Catriona was just about to argue with Akash, but his ultimatum made her realize that she had to show consistency and dedication if she wanted this to work. “Fine.” she agreed. “Thanks...I’ll owe you somehow.” She looked forward to their session as it was not only a new found skill, but one that would be useful for her strength training. 

When Akash considered the idea of trying something new during his so called staycation, it was evident that it piqued his interest and so, the ex-equestrian pushed further by adding, “Right? There’s no commitment, just a new experience and learning opportunity whether it be about yourself or a skill or a new set of knowledge…For instance you can help out at my clinic or at the stables? At least that will give you purpose, but it’s more so you interacting with the animals and horses to get your mind off things. They do need enrichment through human interaction.” A sheepish smile appeared on her lips as she added, “I promise, I won't let you do any of my work for me.”

She then nodded in understanding when he opted to think about it. Again, this was still progress at the end of the day and so, his consideration definitely counted for something. Looking away, she sighed and murmured, “I know.” Pausing, she did appreciate the little reminders as it did ground her back into reality rather than thinking negatively. Following his hand gesture towards the food, Catriona laughed as she gestured a nonchalant wave to dismiss him. “I’m psychic.” she jokingly said with a cheeky smile. “As long as it's delicious and you've eaten then that's all that matters."

[nazlixelmas]

Nazli's fingers lingered on Spot’s fur, the softness grounding her as she listened. There was something comforting about the way Catriona spoke about pets—the quiet understanding that companionship could come in many forms. Maybe a cat would be a good fit. Something independent but still present. Like her. Her lips curved slightly at the way Catriona repeated Badem’s name, but the flicker of recognition in her eyes made Nazli pause. She wasn’t surprised that her parents had left an impression; they had a way of doing that, effortlessly weaving themselves into the fabric of people’s lives. That’s just who they were—welcoming, warm, endlessly generous. The kind of people whose absence still left a hollow space in a room.

Hearing someone else remember them, though? That was different. That was a weight pressing against her ribs, equal parts ache and comfort. “Yeah,” she said softly, nodding. “They did.” Her voice was steadier than she expected it to be, but there was a tightness to it, the kind that came from holding something fragile in her hands. “They loved that shop. And they adored Badem—he was just as spoiled by them as their customers were.”

She wasn’t sure what to say to the apology. Thank you never quite felt right when it came to loss, when it came to something so vast and irreplaceable. But she gave Catriona a small, appreciative nod anyway. The shift in conversation was subtle but not unnoticed. Nazli had learned, since coming back, how to read between the lines when people spoke to her. Some people danced around her last name, hesitant in a way that suggested they knew something—even if they weren’t sure exactly what. Others avoided bringing up her parents altogether, as if their deaths were a subject best left untouched. And then there were those like Catriona, careful with their words, measuring how much to reveal.

Nazli's gaze flickered over her, the ghost of amusement crossing her expression. “Uh-huh,” she murmured, catching the light smile, the way her words treaded the line between truth and omission. “Well, I suppose that depends on what kind of clientele you usually get?” She wasn’t accusing, not really. Just… curious.

Spot eased into Nazli’s touch as Catriona caught sight of him relaxing in place. Her attention then averted back to the conversation at hand as she listened to the other woman decide on what kind of pet she’d settle for. “Exactly, I feel like it’s a middle ground between a dog and a rabbit at this point.” she mused. “They certainly have a personality of their own and are complete home bodies. Mhm, they know when to make themselves known or bask in their independence It’s a good fit for someone who has a busy day to day, but still wants that companionship that works for their schedule.” 

Cat then dropped her hand after both women introduced themselves and nodded in response to her take on whether they had met or not. “Badem…” she repeated to herself in a bare whisper, before her eyes widened slightly after realizing who her parents were. “Your parents owned Elma Atelier right? I do remember them bringing in your dog when I had just opened…They were great clients and Badem was an absolute sweetheart...I'm truly sorry for your loss...” Her voice trailed off as she grew quiet as she was aware of what had happened to her parents. Now she struggled with answering her inquiry as she wasn't trying to assume or pin her into whatever nefarious activities the junction had to offer. "Kinda, I just wasn't sure if you were a previous or current client of mine..." she lied with a light smile.

[akashxbedi]

Akash exhaled, a quiet breath that carried more weight than he intended. Self-awareness, action—he knew the process. Knew it in the way he built cases, deconstructed arguments, and handled clients who wanted miracles. It was easier when the stakes were external, when the problem belonged to someone else. Applying that same clarity to himself? That was different. "You're not wrong," he admitted, rolling his shoulders as if shaking off an invisible weight. "Acknowledgment is easy. It’s what comes after that people tend to trip over.” Himself included. He wasn’t blind to the way he rationalized staying busy, how work made for the perfect distraction. But there was only so long a person could sidestep the truth before it caught up with them.

Her joke about him being convincing earned a small smirk, but her hesitation didn’t go unnoticed. He didn’t make the offer lightly—if he didn’t want to do something, he wouldn’t. And despite everything, he found himself not minding the idea of training her. Maybe it was the structure of it, or maybe it was the reminder of something tangible, something real beyond paperwork and courtrooms. “You don’t have to pay me,” he said simply. “If you’re serious about it, we’ll figure it out. Just show up and be ready to put in the work.” It was how he functioned—discipline, consistency. And if it helped her, even better.

The staycation topic was easier to entertain, though the idea of treating a break like an actual break still felt foreign. “Trying something new,” he mused, rubbing a hand over his jaw. “That’s… not a terrible idea.” The notion of exploration, even in a smaller capacity, intrigued him. It wouldn’t be Monaco, but maybe that wasn’t the point. “I’ll think about it,” he finally said, and for once, he meant it. At her thanks, he met her gaze, something quieter settling between them. “It takes time,” he acknowledged. “But if it helps even a little, then it’s worth saying.” There was something to be said for having people in your corner, even if they didn’t always know how to accept it. "Now how did you know this was exactly what I was craving when you showed up today?" He asked gesturing to the delicious food she'd brought with her.

“Mhm, that’s exactly it.” agreed Catriona with a proud smile. “And see? This is a perfect example of you exemplifying it. First step is acknowledgement and self-awareness, then action comes second.” When did Akash plan on taking that action would be entirely up to him, but she still believed that at some point he’ll follow through with it. “Still trying to figure it out is basically the gist of it. We put too much pressure on ourselves at this point that it becomes an obstacle to just be able to do it.” 

Pursing her lips together, she appreciated Akash’s words of encouragement and pondered on the idea of him teaching her boxing. A part of her felt guilty seeing as he’s the one that’s been needing a break and now here he is offering her a direct solution to her own, that it involved his time and effort. She was just about to point out that she didn’t want the offer if he was being nice or felt bad, but Cat immediately shut her mouth when he had beat her to it. “...I can see why you’re a lawyer, you’re quite convincing.” she joked at first. “Alright, I’ll take you up on that offer. That’s very kind of you and I appreciate it…” This would definitely be a good compromise to her daily schedule seeing as they already know each other enough and their current lifestyle. “I can pay you for your time or whatever you need. It’s the least I can do if you’re going to commit to my attempt at this whole boxing thing. I can text you my availability, as well as share my calendar with you so we can work out the times and dates.” 

Shaking her head, the vet agreed that a staycation wasn’t the same, but it was definitely a step in the right direction since the lawyer would actually experience a break. “Just because you’re staying back doesn’t mean you can’t experience feeling in a totally different setting.” Ideas started flowing in as she said, “You could do a hobby or activity you haven’t done…Order food that you haven’t tasted before…Explore within reason of course.” Her gaze softened after hearing the rest of his words as it was proving to be difficult to get out of such a mindset that she currently has. It always felt like it was never enough. "Thanks." she sincerely replied. "It'll take a lot for me to accept that, but it's been helpful to hear and receive that validation."

[akashxbedi]

Akash chuckled softly, his gaze steady as he considered her words. “You’re right. Small progress is still progress. It’s easy to get caught up in the idea that everything needs to be perfect or happen all at once, but taking it slow can make it all more manageable.” He gave a half shrug, his tone casual but sincere. “I think we’re all just trying to figure it out in our own way.” At times late at night when he lay awake in bed--he often wondered if he'd ever be able to figure it out but that wasn't a confession he was willing to make right now.

As she spoke about her doubts and concerns with committing to anything, Akash leaned in slightly, his expression shifting to something more focused, the way he often did with clients telling him their situation. "I get it. It’s hard to trust yourself enough to start something new, especially when there’s that voice in your head telling you it’s not worth it. But if you ever wanted to give boxing a shot, I could definitely help you out. I’ve got some practice and while I'm not the greatest out there--it might be easier to train with someone you know and I’m not just saying that to be nice.” He let the words hang in the air for a moment, his tone playful yet genuine. “You wouldn’t be wasting anyone’s time, trust me. I’ll even tailor it to your pace if that helps.”

He leaned back in his chair and gave her a small smirk. “As for the whole travel thing, I’m with you on that. Life’s got its own plans, and sometimes the best thing we can do is work with what’s in front of us. A staycation... yeah, that could work. Not the same as getting away, but it’s a good compromise. And who knows? It might be the reset I need to get back on track.” He caught her gaze, a light spark of understanding in his eyes. “But I don’t blame you for being cautious. It’s easier to stay in your comfort zone than to push yourself. Just don’t sell yourself short, Catriona. You’ve got more to give than you realize.”

“Fair enough.” replied Catriona with an encouraging smile. At least Akash was giving it a chance and thinking it through. His self-awareness was a good sign in trying to catch a break that he needed. “For starters, it’s never too late to start now. As for slowing down…” She paused and thought of a compromise that might work as she took in her own experience. “I feel like it is inevitable since it’ll always be in the back of our minds, but we’re too overwhelmed to face it head on…Maybe, you don’t have to take it all at once. Small progress is still considered good progress.”

Continuing to eat a few bites, she listened as Akash took it into consideration, but still ended up rolling her eyes once he made up his mind. “Noted…for now.” she mused before tilting her head in confusion when he disagreed with her fragile comment. “Um…Yeah? Okay, but that’s cause I yap too much Akash! I meant physically you know?...” Ever since the accident, she felt completely weak and helpless. Ultimately, she knew that it probably wasn’t physicality that she was lacking, but her confidence. So as soon as the lawyer began explaining that boxing dealt with more of the mental, she took the advice and nodded in understanding, “I see…Well clearly I have a lot of work to do.” A soft smile crept onto her lips as he validated her type of breaks, “Thanks, I guess when you put it that way it still counts for something.” 

Reaching for her drink, she took a few steps while hearing out Akash’s response in regards to her inquiry. “I get it, I initially wanted to do all that…But, life had other plans.” She then shook her head and said, “It is an excuse, but that’s probably something you need to sort out, no? Perhaps the factors holding you back can be resolved if you truly face it head on.” Shrugging, she then let out a laugh and said, “But then who am I to dictate how you live? Especially during these precarious times…Although if you can’t really travel out, maybe doing a staycation might be a good start and compromise?” 

When she met his gaze, Catriona tilted her head slightly as she could tell he had something up his sleeve. Smirking, she then leaned in and played along by asking, “Really? How much?” Before letting out a dry laugh and shaking her head, “Even if I were to try it, like who’s going to teach me? I can’t even commit to classes, let alone a personal trainer and I don’t want to waste mine, let alone their time…”

[akashxbedi]

Akash turned her words over in his mind, the way she spoke about adjusting, pivoting—how life had forced her into roles she hadn’t necessarily chosen. He understood that more than he liked to admit. There was always another case, another fire to put out, another reason to keep moving forward without stopping to ask if he even wanted to. “Limits,” he murmured, almost to himself. He exhaled sharply, shaking his head. “I think I lost sight of mine a long time ago. It’s easier to keep going than to stop and realize how much weight I’ve been carrying.” He tapped his fingers against the desk, a restless motion. “The work makes sense. The chaos makes sense. Slowing down… doesn’t.” His gaze drifted toward the city skyline beyond the window, the familiar hum of Devil’s Junction stretching out beyond the glass. He’d built a life out of navigating complexities, but somewhere along the way, he’d stopped questioning if that was all he wanted it to be.

Leaning back slightly, he let her words settle. Give yourself grace. Easier said than done, but she wasn’t wrong. He could acknowledge that much. "You’ve got a point. Work will still be there when I take a break. Doesn’t mean I’ll actually take one, but… noted." His lips twitched into something that almost resembled a smile before he focused back on her. 

Akash huffed out a quiet laugh, shaking his head. "Catriona, you? Fragile?" He gave her a look that was equal parts skeptical and amused. "I've seen you hold your own in conversations that would send most people running. Pretty sure you could throw a punch if you had to. Boxing’s not a bad choice, though," he mused. "You don’t have to go in swinging. It’s about control, pacing yourself, knowing when to strike. It’s more mental than people realize—keeps you sharp." He gave her a smile then, before continuing. "And you’re already balancing a lot. Motherhood, work, making sure I don’t work myself into an early grave—" His tone was dry, but there was a flicker of appreciation behind it. "So, if all you can manage is trying new food, I’d say that’s a solid enough break."

“You asked if there’s anything I haven’t had the chance to immerse myself in.” A wry chuckle escaped him. “I used to travel more. Not just for the races, but for the feeling of being somewhere completely different, somewhere I didn’t have to be ‘Akash Bedi, lawyer, fixer, problem-solver.’ Just… someone passing through.” His jaw tensed slightly before he shrugged. “I tell myself I don’t have time for that anymore, but maybe that’s just an excuse.”

A pause, then with a teasing glint in his eye, he added, “Though I do think I’d pay good money to see you attempt boxing. Just once.”

Catriona related to Akash’s point about work being easier than anything else. It was the best excuse, distraction or escape when not wanting to deal with everyone and everything around them. “At some point, everyone has their limits…” she reminded him at first. “Well the silver lining is that your work is valued given how busy you are…So that means if you were to take a break, technically your business is still there because that’s how good you are at what you do.” Although her tone was playful, she genuinely meant those words seeing as he was doing all this work in the most notorious part of Chicago. The junction was not an easy place to tackle and the fact that he was a criminal lawyer out of all roles meant that he wouldn’t be running out of clients. 

Pressing her lips into a thin line, she nodded in agreement as she felt like she was stuck and perhaps too comfortable with where she’s at in life. She had a dream, it got crushed in an instant. She grew up around this chaotic life and chose to stay in it. On that note, she knew that these were precarious times, but to be fair, Lizeth was unplanned and so, she had to pivot and adjust to both lifestyles that were presented to her. “I hope…” she murmured out while she poked at her food. 

“Give yourself grace, Akash. At least you’re aware, some people are too stubborn and won’t budge then end up getting burnt out.” It was good progress seeing the lawyer think of possible plans and so, Catriona decided to help brainstorm in hopes of finding one that worked for him. “Well you can still aim to head for those races. At least a plan would be in place and then we can think of something simple or easier for right now. Was there anything you wanted to do aside from that? Or do you have any interests or hobbies that you haven't had a chance to immerse yourself in?”

When the question came directed at her, the ex-equestrian smiled softly as she thought of her response, “The obvious ones are just relaxing with Lizeth or being with the horses. Although, I do wish I was able to ride them the way I used to, but now I have to take it easy…” She forced out a smile while suppressing her resentment and continued, “Other outlets would be doing karaoke or a night out to dance. Although with how unpredictable my schedule is and winging this whole motherhood thing, I think the easiest break I could do is just being a foodie and trying out new places and cultures. Oh! I was thinking of taking some kind of workout hobby...I initially had my sights on boxing, but I don't know—I feel like I'd be too fragile for it."

[nazlixelmas]

Nazli's lips curled into a small, amused smile as she watched Spot settle beside her, his tail thumping lazily against the ground. She reached out, fingers grazing his fur gently, feeling the warmth of his trust. “Good boy,” she murmured, the softness in her voice unguarded. Looking up at Catriona, she nodded thoughtfully. “A cat does sound like a better fit for me,” she admitted. “I love the independence they have—how they can be affectionate on their own terms but still find their way back to you.” There was something poetic about it, really. A quiet companionship, one that didn't demand but existed nonetheless.

When Catriona introduced herself, Nazli shook her hand, her grip firm but warm. “Nice to meet you too,” she replied, tilting her head slightly at the way the vet studied her. It was a familiar look—one of recognition just out of reach. “Pawprints Vet,” she repeated, the name rolling off her tongue as she mentally sifted through any past connections. “I don’t think I’ve ever been there myself, but my parents probably took our dog to you at some point. We had a golden retriever—Badem—before I left Devil’s Junction for a while.” Her voice softened at the mention of her late pet, but she pushed past it with a small, polite smile. “Though, from the way you were looking at me just now, I take it you were trying to place me somewhere?” There was no accusation in her tone, just curiosity. She had a feeling people in this city—especially those familiar with the Six Families—would be trying to figure out exactly where she fit in. If only she could proudly proclaim from the rooftops that she had no alliances; a fact that would come out to be false sooner or later.

A bright smile appeared on Catriona’s lips as she observed the interaction between Spot and his new friend. The human interaction definitely helped with the recovery seeing as he was a sociable dog and had been waiting for this day to be out and about. “Aww now say thank you Spot…” On cue, the lab barked excitedly as they stood on all fours and happily wagged its tail as he got closer to the brunette before laying onto the ground next to them and staying put. It was a clear sign that he was enjoying their company. 

“Is that so?” replied Cat with intrigue. As she continued to listen to what they were thinking of having as a pet, she began thinking of how they could make that happen. “It is a big decision and commitment.” agreed the vet. “However, if you know you’ll put your heart and soul into them, then why not? They’re practically going to be your fur baby when you think about it.” She then tapped her chin as she thought about both animals that were presented to her, “Perhaps a cat would be your best bet. I have connections to a few shelters, if you’d like I can look into seeing if you can visit them to get a feel for it.” 

Extending her hand for the introduction, she then said, “Nice to meet you Nazli, I’m Catriona and no…I don’t believe so…” Her voice trailed off as she wondered if she was affiliated with one of the Six families. She also doubted that she had anything to deal with her Olympic endeavour as it was such a niche sport that she had qualified for. As she studied Nazli’s face closely, she also didn't believe that she had patch them up before in her clinic or seen them as an avid gambler on the racetracks. “I own Pawprints Vet by the way." she briefly mentioned to see if that jogged her memory.

[akashxbedi]

Akash leans back, a tired but understanding look in his eyes as he listens to Catriona. He lets out a soft sigh, rubbing his temples before meeting her gaze. "I’m not impossible, Cat. Just… a little too used to pushing myself. Work’s always been easier to focus on than anything else." His tone is lighter now, a touch of self-awareness seeping through. When she mentions checking in on him, a small chuckle escapes his lips. "I suppose you wouldn’t be the first. You’re probably right, though. I could use someone to make sure I’m not running myself into the ground. My mother tries but...it's easier to lie to her when she's far." He takes a moment to let the weight of her words settle before continuing, his voice more serious. "I think I’ve forgotten what it feels like to take a step back and just… breathe."

Akash watches her thoughtfully as she speaks about Lizeth and the future. He knows the strain that comes with staying in a place like Devil’s Junction, the way it clings to you even when you try to move forward. "I get it," he says after a pause. "It’s hard to look at this place and think about building something long-term. It’s not exactly the kind of place I’d want for someone just starting out. But I also know what it’s like to be stuck, to feel like there’s no real way out." He shakes his head, a very tiny bit of frustration in his expression. "But Lizeth’s got time, like you said. She’s got the world ahead of her, and I think she’ll figure it out, even if it’s not here."

His smile is faint, but appreciative when she agrees to help him take a break. "I know I’ve been avoiding it," he admits, leaning forward slightly. "But I think you’re right. I’ve been burning the candle at both ends, and it’s catching up with me." His eyes soften, a bit of vulnerability slipping through. "I’d really appreciate a break, Cat. Something to clear my head, even if just for a little while. Maybe heading out to see the next race, but that's not until March and in Australia so...that might be a bit too far," he let out a chuckle before looking back at her. "What do you do--when you need a break?"

“You’re impossible.” Catriona said at first as she gave Akash a disbelief look, more so out of concern for his well being. “Mhm, whatever you say. Maybe I should start doing little check-ins on you to see if you’ve prioritized yourself first than your clients or the workload.” As she grabbed one of the take out boxes to munch on, she made herself comfortable in one of his seats and chuckled softly at what Lizeth’s future may look like based on her current personality. “Hm…When you put it that way…” Her voice trailed off as she took a few bites. “I said I wouldn’t be hovering over my own kid and their decision for their future. However, if that’s the case, I would prefer if she did it outside of the Junction. No amount of money would make the work worth it in a place like this.” She paused as she sheepishly smiled and addressed the elephant in the room, "We don't count though...Cause we're already here and established individuals...Lizeth has time to get out."

Observing his behaviour, she listened attentively as he replied to her inquiry. Catriona could already sense the weight of his work taking a toll on him and all she could do is offer up a sympathetic smile. “It’s been a shit couple of weeks.” she agreed as she remembered the recent events that took place in the Grand Royale Casino. “I know you will.” she confirmed with a playful smirk. “Yeah, yeah…Don’t thank me, it’s the least I can do. Speaking of break, what would you consider one? We should make it happen."

[akashxbedi]

Akash offered a small, grateful smile as he took the utensils and napkins from her. "What would I do without you?" he repeated, shaking his head lightly. "Probably starve or drown in paperwork. Not a great look either way." He gestured to the food she’d brought, already pulling the lid off one of the containers. "But don’t worry, I’m digging in now and that's what counts." He listened as she spoke about Lizeth, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips as she described her daughter’s growing curiosity. "Chatty and curious? Sounds like you’ve got a future journalist or detective on your hands," he said, his tone warm and teasing. "You’ll keep up, though. You’re stubborn, remember? That’ll come in handy when you’re chasing her around in about a year or two."

When she turned the question back to him, Akash leaned back in his chair with a faint sigh, running his free hand through his hair. "A little bit of everything, honestly. There’s a new case that’s got me jumping through hoops, and you know how it is—half the job is keeping things from falling apart before they even start. That, and..." He hesitated for a moment, his eyes flickering to the window before returning to her. "It’s been one of those weeks where the work feels endless. You know the type." Akash then gave her a small, reassuring smile. "But I’ll survive. Especially now that I’ve been fed." He raised a piece of food as if to toast her. "So, thanks for that—and for reminding me I’m human enough to need a break."

“I’m flattered.” she mused as she placed a hand on her chest for emphasis before distributing the food on a vacant area of Akash’s desk. “What would you do without me?” she teased with a playful eye roll before signalling him to dig in. “You’re working way too hard if you’re just realizing now that you’re hungry. How can you do your job if you’re unconsciously deteriorating, hm?” Catriona’s motherly instincts were kicking in, which she really needed to face and take her own advice. “I feel like we all have that problem, but we should really get into the habit of slowing down.” 

As she handed him some utensils and napkins, her gaze softened when he asked her about Lizeth. "Busy." she said at first. "To think I'm still standing and not the latter is bizarre, but I feel like that's my stubbornness talking. Liz is doing good, thank you for asking. She's becoming chatty now and is absolutely curious for a one year old. I don't know if I'll be able to keep up, but it's crazy how time passes by." She then met his gaze and asked, "So what's got you working late?"

[akashxbedi]

A grin was on his face as he caught sight of Catriona. He watched as she entered his office and proceeded to show him a bag of takeout--the scent of which was filling his office quite rapidly making him suddenly aware of just how hungry he was.

"You'd get the family and friend's discount of course," he mused before continuing, "really though you're a godsend Cat, I'm suddenly starving." He grinned at her before listening to what she was doing here at this hour since they hadn't made plans previously. "Well you know me--somehow there aren't enough hours in the day," he murmured before shutting the lid of his laptop and giving her his full attention; and that bag of food of course.

"How's life otherwise going for you? How's the kiddo?"

Ending the FaceTime call with her mother and Lizeth, Catriona soon entered Akash's office and briefly knocked before taking a peek from behind the door. "And yet, you're still here." she retorted back before closing it behind her and greeting him with a warm smile. "I feel like talking about the weather with you would be an expensive conversation, no?" she joked as she incorporated his billable briefly. Waving him off, she then lifted a bag of takeout and placed it on his desk. "I'm doing a double today and so, my night shift is at the stables since there's going to be a race tomorrow. I thought I'd kill time before heading to the ranch. My gut told me you'd still be working and I was right."

[nazlixelmas]

Once she heard the other woman ordered the dog, Spot, to sit--Nazli hesitated for only a second before stepping closer, lowering herself slightly to meet Spot at his level. “I wouldn’t say no to a good boy who enjoys saying hi,” she said with a small smile, extending her hand for the labrador to sniff before gently running her fingers through his fur. There was something grounding about the simple act—warmth beneath her palm, the steady rise and fall of his breath.

“I’ve actually been thinking about adopting a pet,” she admitted after a moment, her voice thoughtful. “Not a dog, necessarily. Maybe a cat. Or a rabbit.” A soft laugh escaped her, like she wasn’t quite convinced of her own words. “I don’t know. I like the idea of having something to come home to, but it feels like a big decision.”

She glanced up then, realizing she hadn’t even introduced herself. “I’m Nazli, by the way. I don’t think we’ve met before?” There was curiosity in her tone, but also a quiet openness. Meeting new people in Devil’s Junction often came with unexpected connections, and she wondered if this would be one of them.

❛ ☾ ◟━ LOCATION: a park near pawprints vet

❛ ☾ ◟━ TIME: morning

❛ ☾ ◟━ STATUS: open to anyone

Observing the elder labrador retriever in front of her, Catriona was allowing the pup to relieve themselves as they strolled around the park near her clinic. She wanted to ensure that there were no complications from the surgery they had recently gone through. Taking in their behaviour, she was pleased that they were still able to move freely and were showing good signs for recovery. In the midst of their walk, she noticed an individual from her peripheral vision looking their way and so, Catriona glanced over and asked, "Were you interested in petting them?" She then shortened the leash and stood next to the lab as she gently petted and ordered him to sit. "His name is Spot, he's an old soul, but a good boy nevertheless. He's a little out of it cause he's recovering from surgery, but he does enjoy saying hi to new faces..."

[poisonvdhonvy]

Violeta grins, scratching Spot’s head like she’s known him forever. “Nah, no pets. Not sure I’ve got the discipline for it. Plants are more my speed, and even they’re touch and go. I had a cactus once—thought it was indestructible. Turns out, even cacti have limits.” Her tone’s light, but there’s a flicker of something else, like she’s maybe thought about it more than she’s letting on. Spot leans into her hand, and she chuckles softly, shaking her head. “If I did, though, I’d want one like this guy. He’s got that whole ‘seen it all, still standing’ energy. You don’t meet many like him.” She glances up at the woman, her smile quick but genuine. “You’ve done good with him. I mean, look at him, he’s got that ‘I’m the boss, but I’ll let you think you are’ vibe. Classic.” She gives Spot one last scratch, her voice dipping into that soft, conspiratorial tone people save for dogs. “You keep being the legend you are, big guy.”

Judging by the way Spot perked up at the newcomer that approached them meant that it was a good sign he was being receptive. Although his medications made him slower and in a doozy than usual, Kimberly mentally took notes as she could see the progress in his recovery. She let them have her moment as she appreciated how the other was interacting with the elderly dog, showing signs of patience and absolute care instead of going all in. “Mhm.” confirmed the vet with a nod. “Oh I’m just the fixer and caregiver, he’s the one pulling all the weight. A true fighter at the end of the day.” Suddenly Spot inched closer to the other woman and immediately caved into their touch, as he was pleased with the attention. “He likes you.” she mused. “Do you have any pets of your own?” 

[poisonvdhonvy]

Violeta’s eyes flicks to the labrador when the woman speaks, and she’s already halfway to answering before she realises she’s being addressed. “Oh, yeah, sure. I mean, who could resist?” She steps closer, hands stuffed in her jacket pockets like she’s trying to play it cool, but there’s no hiding the way her gaze softens at the sight of the dog. Spot, huh? The name fits. Old soul, good boy, all that. She crouches down, careful not to crowd him. “Hey, Spot. You’re looking pretty sharp for someone fresh out of surgery.” Her voice dips into that tone people use when talking to dogs, like they’re sharing a secret. She glances up at the woman, catching the way she’s keeping the leash short, like she’s got this whole situation under control. “Recovering, huh? Bet you’ve been through the wars, buddy.” Her fingers hover near Spot’s nose, waiting for the all-clear from him before she dares to pet him. “You must be the one keeping him in line. He’s lucky to have someone who knows what they’re doing.” She smiles, a quick, genuine thing, before turning her attention back to Spot. “Alright, big guy. Let’s see if you’re up for a little head scratch.”

❛ ☾ ◟━ LOCATION: a park near pawprints vet

❛ ☾ ◟━ TIME: morning

❛ ☾ ◟━ STATUS: open to anyone

Observing the elder labrador retriever in front of her, Catriona was allowing the pup to relieve themselves as they strolled around the park near her clinic. She wanted to ensure that there were no complications from the surgery they had recently gone through. Taking in their behaviour, she was pleased that they were still able to move freely and were showing good signs for recovery. In the midst of their walk, she noticed an individual from her peripheral vision looking their way and so, Catriona glanced over and asked, "Were you interested in petting them?" She then shortened the leash and stood next to the lab as she gently petted and ordered him to sit. "His name is Spot, he's an old soul, but a good boy nevertheless. He's a little out of it cause he's recovering from surgery, but he does enjoy saying hi to new faces..."