𝐉𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐲 -- 𝐅𝐚𝐲𝐞 𝐖𝐞𝐛𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫
      𝟎𝟎𝟔: Take a Break
              (𝘼𝙧𝙘𝙖𝙣𝙚, Stay Ready)

𝐌𝐎𝐎𝐍 had eyes. Sharp ones, too. Many people seemed to forget that. She was well aware that Ekko was objectively more attractive these days. The boy who had once been all knobby knees and oversized goggles was now... well, someone who could turn heads without trying.

But that didn't mean she had to do anything about it.

Just because her friend was attractive didn't mean she had to suddenly fall head over heels, stumbling over her words for him. That wasn't how this worked. She'd known Ekko for years, and their relationship was built on something far deeper than fleeting crushes or awkward confessions.

Besides, it wasn't like he was stumbling over his words for her, either.

Right?

Her thoughts flickered to the way his voice softened whenever he spoke to her, the way he always seemed to be at her side when she needed him, the way his gaze lingered just a second too long sometimes.

Not that it mattered. Just because he was taller now, his frame more defined, or because he had this quiet confidence that made him stand out—none of that meant anything. And those times when he rolled up his sleeves, his forearms flexing as he focused intently on a task—well, that wasn't important either. She was just noticing things. That's all.

Besides, she was starting to have the sneaking suspicion that Powder had feelings for him—or maybe it was the other way around. The way they exchanged glances when they thought no one was looking, the way Powder seemed to light up every time Ekko spoke. It wasn't hard to see, even if neither of them had said a word. And that only pushed her deeper into the familiar role of being the "little sister," the one who was always on the outside looking in. It felt like the stereotype was closing in on her, pushing her further away from something she didn't even know she wanted—until now.

And she didn't want to voice this—not to anyone, especially not to herself. It was such an embarrassing feeling to have, something that made her stomach twist with unease. But Dr. Yarrow had a way of coaxing things out of her, of pulling the truth from her like threads that she didn't even realize she was holding onto. Her quiet, patient questioning had a way of getting to the heart of things, no matter how much Moon wanted to bury them. And the more she thought about it, the more Moon realized she might not have been as good at hiding it as she thought.

Moon sat in Dr. Yarrow's office, her fingers nervously twisting the hem of her sleeve as she stared at the floor, her thoughts racing. The familiar room, with its soft lighting and the smell of fresh tea, seemed to close in around her as she struggled to put words to the tangled mess of emotions inside her.

"I don't like these feelings," she confessed, her voice low and uneasy. "It's like something's changed, but I can't figure out what it is. It feels... off." She paused, running a hand through her hair, trying to gather her thoughts. "I've always been able to separate things. He's my friend. But now, every time I look at him, I feel... I don't know, different. I don't want to feel like this. I don't want it to be complicated."

Dr. Yarrow leaned forward slightly, her expression kind but attentive. "Tell me more. What exactly is it that feels different?"

Moon shifted uncomfortably in her seat, her fingers fidgeting with the edges of her sleeve. "It's not just one thing. It's the way he looks at me sometimes, or the way his voice sounds when he talks to me. It's like he's paying extra attention, but I'm not sure if it's real or if I'm just imagining it. And it's not even like I want it to be something else. I don't. But then... I get these thoughts. These stupid thoughts. And it's messing with my head."

Dr. Yarrow gave her a patient, knowing look. "You don't have to figure everything out all at once, Moon. These kinds of feelings can be unsettling, especially when they're unexpected or confusing. You've been through a lot, and sometimes, our emotions can become tangled without us even realizing why."

Moon clenched her jaw, her frustration evident. "I don't want to be one of those girls who can't keep her head straight over someone. I don't want to complicate things with Ekko. I don't even know if I'm really feeling anything, or if it's just... my mind playing tricks on me." She sighed, a hand pressing against her forehead. "I don't want to ruin the friendship. I don't want to make things weird."

Dr. Yarrow's eyes softened with understanding. "It's not unusual to be confused by your feelings, especially when the connection you share with someone runs deep. But sometimes, trying to make sense of everything all at once only adds to the confusion. What if you took a step back, gave your mind a break from all these thoughts?"

Moon raised an eyebrow, unsure of where this was going. "A break? From my own head?"

Dr. Yarrow smiled gently, a flicker of encouragement in her eyes. "Yes. Sometimes, the best way to clear your thoughts is to focus on something else entirely. Something that has nothing to do with the feelings you're wrestling with. You've always had a deep love for art, haven't you? Maybe it's time for you to dive into that again."

Moon frowned slightly, her curiosity piqued despite herself. "What do you mean?"

Dr. Yarrow reached into her desk drawer and pulled out a formal-looking letter, sliding it across the table. "There's an art exhibit at Everbridge Hall in Piltover. It's a curated collection of local artists, and I think it might be just the thing for you. A way to take your mind off of everything else and immerse yourself in something that feeds your soul."

Moon glanced at the invitation, her heart skipping a beat at the mention of art. The idea was enticing, but part of her still resisted. "But how is that going to help me with this... whatever this is?" She gestured vaguely, feeling a little embarrassed to even be talking about her confusing emotions.

Dr. Yarrow's expression remained calm and understanding. "Sometimes, when we allow ourselves to be consumed by something we love, it gives us the space we need to process everything else. Art has always been a way for you to express yourself, to escape, and to find clarity. It could offer you a different perspective, a chance to step outside your emotions for a while."

Moon hesitated for a moment, her gaze lingering on the invitation. She had always found peace in art—whether creating it or simply admiring it. It wasn't a bad idea, really. And perhaps stepping away from the emotional whirlwind might help her untangle what was happening inside her head.

She picked up the invitation, tucking it into her jacket pocket. "Okay. I'll go," she said quietly, her voice more certain now. "Thanks, Dr. Yarrow. I think I need this."

Dr. Yarrow smiled warmly. "I think it will do you good, Moon. Take care of yourself, and remember, sometimes the answers come when we stop searching so hard for them."

Moon nodded, standing to leave. As she stepped out of Dr. Yarrow's office, the weight on her chest felt a little lighter, and the invitation in her pocket felt like the first step toward something different.

"𝐈'𝐌 going out." Moon bounded down the stairs into the Last Drop, her heels clicking on the wooden steps as she emerged from the back room. She was dressed in a semi-formal outfit—tailored trousers that hugged her legs, a fitted blouse with a deep shade of burgundy that brought out the warmth of her complexion, and a lightweight, cropped blazer that ended just above her waist. Her hair, natural and full, framed her face in soft curls, a sharp contrast to the crisp lines of her outfit. The subtle elegance of her appearance made her look out of place, but in a way that seemed to turn heads, despite the rugged surroundings of the bar.

Vander looked up from his spot by the bar, brow furrowing as he took in her outfit. "Out where?" he asked, his voice tinged with concern but also curiosity.

Moon smiled with an air of confidence, but there was a flicker of hesitation in her eyes, a small part of her unsure if she was truly ready for what lay ahead. "To an art exhibit," she said, her voice steady. "Dr. Yarrow recommended it. Gave up her invitation to me." She waved her hand at the familiar, worn surroundings of the Last Drop.

Vander's smile softened, his eyes crinkling with warmth. "That sounds like a nice break. Why don't you invite Ekko and Powder to go as well?"

Moon frowned, the corners of her lips pulling down just slightly as she considered his suggestion. She shook her head, a small sigh escaping her lips. "No, I'd rather do this on my own. Besides, this might bore Powder. And Ekko... well, he's not exactly a great artist."

Vander chuckled, a low, knowing sound. "True enough. But you're more than capable of making the most of it on your own, I'm sure."

Moon nodded absently, her thoughts drifting for a moment as she adjusted the collar of her blouse. "I just... I need some time away. To focus. I'll enjoy it more, I think."

Vander studied her for a moment, his gaze softening as he let out a small hum of approval. "You've been through a lot, kid. A little space might be just what you need. I'm proud of you for going out there."

Moon's lips curved into a small, grateful smile, her shoulders loosening slightly. "Thanks, Vander. I'll be back later." She gave him a quick wave before heading for the door.

"Take care of yourself," he called after her, watching as she disappeared into the bustling streets of Zaun.

"Moon gonna be back for dinner?" Claggor asked, grabbing a plate from Vander as he leaned casually against the counter.

Vander shrugged, setting down another plate with a faint clatter. "Didn't ask what time she was coming back," he replied simply.

"Father of the year," Mylo quipped, his smirk curling like smoke. "Let your anorexic, suicidal fourteen-year-old not only skip dinner but roam the streets alone. Stellar parenting, really."

Powder froze mid-reach for a plate, her jaw tightening as her eyes snapped to Mylo. "You're not funny," she bit out, her voice cutting through the space like a knife. She grabbed the plate Claggor was passing her and handed it to Ekko without looking up.

Claggor shot Mylo a warning glare, his shoulders stiffening. "That's enough," he said, his tone low but firm. "You don't have to be a jerk about it."

Mylo rolled his eyes and leaned back against the counter, crossing his arms. "I'm just saying what everyone's thinking. She barely eats, barely talks, and she's always off on her own. Someone should keep an eye on her."

"Someone does," Powder snapped, her voice rising now, her blue eyes bright with frustration. "And it's not you, so maybe shut up for once."

Ekko cleared his throat softly, shifting uncomfortably in his seat but choosing to stay silent. Vander, who had been silent up to this point, let out a deep sigh, running a hand over his face. His gaze flicked toward the door Moon had left through, his expression unreadable.

"She'll be alright," he muttered, though the weight in his voice betrayed him. "Moon knows how to take care of herself."

Powder shook her head, her voice dropping to a quiet murmur. "She shouldn't have to."

Vander shook his head, setting the last plate down with a deliberate thud. "I think what we need to do," he began, his voice steady but laced with a quiet intensity, "is let Moon figure out how to get better on her own terms. She won't do that if we keep making her feel like her problems are chains holding her back—or if we all hover over her, shielding her from the world."

He glanced at each of them in turn, his gaze lingering just long enough to make his point. "She needs to get out there on her own. Find her footing without us stepping in every time. That's the only way she'll learn she's stronger than all this."

Claggor nodded hesitantly, while Powder remained quiet, her lips pressed into a thin line. Mylo opened his mouth to say something—likely a retort—but Vander cut him off with a sharp look.

"Doesn't mean we don't keep an eye out for her," Vander added firmly. "But smothering her? Treating her like she's broken? That's not helping her. She's got enough fight in her to handle this, even if she doesn't know it yet."

Powder's shoulders sagged slightly, her expression softening, though worry still flickered in her eyes. "I just... I don't want her to feel like she's alone."

"She's not," Vander said quietly, his voice steady and resolute. "But she's got to know that for herself. And sometimes, that means giving her the space to figure it out."

The door to the Last Drop swung open with a loud creak, drawing everyone's attention. Moon burst inside, her curls bouncing with each step, her face alight with an energy that seemed to chase away the gloom of Zaun itself. Her outfit was slightly rumpled, her cheeks flushed from the cold outside or maybe from the sheer excitement that radiated off her.

Ekko stood near the counter, a plate of food balanced in his hands. He barely had time to process the blur of burgundy and curls before she shouted his name, her voice so full of joy it made his chest tighten.

"Ekko!"

She was on him in an instant, throwing her arms around his neck with a force that nearly knocked him backward. Reflexively, he dropped the plate—food scattering across the floor with a loud clatter—but he didn't care. His arms went around her automatically, hoisting her up to keep her from falling, her legs swaying slightly as she clung to him.

Ekko's grip was steady, his strength surprising for someone who moved with such quick, agile precision. His arms held her like they could hold the world, firm and unwavering, and Moon couldn't help but notice how defined they were as they braced her weight. She liked that about him—the way he carried so much in silence, both literally and figuratively. She felt safe in his hold, almost too safe.

Her fingers curled against the back of his neck as a grin tugged at her lips.

Her laughter rang out, bright and unrestrained, and for a second, all he could do was hold her, his breath catching in his throat. She smelled like the faint perfume of oil paint and something sweet he couldn't quite place, her curls brushing against his cheek as she shifted closer.

"Whoa, Moon, what's going on?" he managed to ask, though his voice cracked slightly at the end. He prayed she didn't notice.

She pulled back just enough to look at him, her face glowing with exhilaration. Her arms stayed looped around his neck, and he could feel the weight of her, warm and alive in his hold. "It was incredible!" she gushed, her legs swaying slightly in the air as she held onto him. "The art, Ekko! It was... I don't even know how to describe it! The colors, the textures, the way it all just—" She gestured wildly, her movements exaggerated by her excitement, the energy vibrating through her entire body. "It was like seeing music, like hearing a story without words. I met some of the most talented artists in Piltover. Their work was—oh, it was so good! It made me feel like—like maybe I could actually belong somewhere like that someday."

She was radiant, her eyes wide and sparkling, her smile so big it made his own lips twitch upward despite himself. He nodded dumbly, too caught up in her energy to do anything else.

Ekko's grin widened as he watched her, the excitement in her voice pulling him in completely. He adjusted his grip slightly, holding her closer as her words tumbled out. He didn't care about the broken plate or the food scattered at his feet. Right now, all that mattered was Moon.

"And," she continued, unwrapping one of her arms to gesture wildly, "I met this artist. Not just any artist, Ekko— Phoenix! He's the most popular artist in Piltover—everyone was dying to talk to him and he talked to me! He actually talked to me!"

Ekko blinked, his grip on her tightening slightly. "He what?"

"He asked about my art," she said, her voice dropping to a breathless whisper, as if she still couldn't believe it herself. "And then he said—Ekko, he said he wants to see more. He offered me an internship. In Piltover!"

His mind stuttered for a moment, the words sinking in. "An internship?" he repeated, his voice barely above a whisper. Then it hit him fully, and he broke into a grin. "Moon, that's—holy crap, that's amazing!"

He spun her slightly in his arms, her laughter bubbling out as she clung tighter to his neck. Her joy was infectious, filling the room with something warmer than any fire.

"You're gonna kill it," he said, his voice softer now, though no less full of conviction. "I know you will. They're gonna love you."

Her face softened, and for the first time, she seemed to hesitate. "You really think so?" she asked, her voice quieter now, almost vulnerable.

"I don't think so," he said, his gaze steady and unwavering. "I know so. You're incredible, Moon. They're lucky they even get the chance to see what you can do."

Her eyes widened, and for a second, she seemed almost shy, her eyes darting away before meeting his again. Her arms tightened around his neck, and he swore his heart skipped a beat. "Thanks, Ekko," she murmured, her voice low and sincere. "I don't think I'd even have the confidence to try if it weren't for you."

His stomach flipped, his chest suddenly feeling too tight. She was still so close, her face just inches from his. He could see the flecks of gold in her dark eyes, could feel the warmth of her breath against his skin. His palms were starting to sweat, but he didn't dare let go.

"Hey, I'm just the guy holding the ladder," he said, trying to keep his tone light even though his voice wavered slightly. "You're the one climbing it."

She smiled at that, soft and private, and he felt like the ground had disappeared beneath him.

From somewhere in the back, Mylo groaned loudly, breaking the spell. "Great. Now Piltover's stealing more of Zaun's talent. Just what we need."

Moon shot him a look but didn't let it ruin her mood. Powder skipped over, practically bouncing as she grabbed Moon's hand. "I wanna hear everything! Did they have those little fancy appetizers? Did they have sculptures? What were the artists like?"

Moon laughed, still cradled in Ekko's arms as she started recounting every detail, her voice brimming with happiness. Ekko didn't put her down. He didn't trust his legs to hold him if he did, not when her arms were still around his neck, not when her smile was so close.

He'd dropped everything for her in that moment, and he'd do it again in a heartbeat. For her, he'd always let the rest of the world fall away.

𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄 𝐒𝐏𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐒!

Rip Moon, you would have loved original timeline Ekko's arms. Moon trying to distance herself from Ekko and then running to him the second something goes good for her is so funny. Vote and comment love hearing from you guys (which I haven't been.)

Not proofread