Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Jennifer was preparing for an arithmetic exam that could save her GPA. She wasn't bored in class, but she just wished for some luck to get at least a good grade.

This has to be fine- Jennifer said firmly as she looked at herself in the mirror, ready for another day of school. From her room, she heard her mother's voice telling her to come down to the dining room.

On the other hand, Trish was there with everything clean and ready, she was already breathing easy since the numbers were not a problem, her real problem was something else... That she herself does not want to remember.

"Okay, where did I stay?" said the young black-haired woman while serving breakfast with her mind full of multiple thoughts and ideas.

Good morning little sister - A voice interrupted Trish's thoughts, a girl with black and white hair was approaching the kitchen, the first thing she did was grab her favorite mug and fill it with coffee

Good morning Aster- She answers with a slight smile, very strange for her since Aster and Trish are more than sisters, one would even sacrifice herself for the other if life turns horrible.

Everything ready for today? - Aster had a wide smile, he didn't even know why, he only had in mind that his sister was doing what she likes even after that unfortunate moment or so many unfortunate moments.

Mmmmm, yes- Trish answers calmly while sipping her coffee with milk, as if the argument and the breakup she had with Raphael were what destroyed her.

Look, darling, forget about that piece of trash, dad could already solve that mess - said the older sister winking, although the age difference was not very big, Aster almost knew about the problems that torment teenagers.

It's better to focus on that exam and on the paintings- Aster continues while pouring another cup of coffee, laughing even when he has his younger sister in front of him with an expressionless face.

Okay, okay, it's just a math test - Apparently Aster's words got Trish back on track.

The young woman goes to get her backpack and another bag, which had a map holder sticking out. Aster approaches and escorts her to the exit, both sisters smiling.

At school, in the middle of an exam

There were many who tried to answer correctly, some answered without the slightest effort... How there are some creative people who had the good idea of drawing the margins, and Trish would be one of those... Perhaps she already finished answering that she doesn't bother to hand in her paper so as not to humiliate her classmates or her head was tormented that what she was doing was sketching the margins

Every time Jennifer saw an equation and tried to write the correct answer, she would erase it and think about the solution again... It was a nightmare until she saw Trish with that strange calm, she could observe her clearly and apart from her dark hair she saw a purse and a blueprint holder. It was strange, maybe because they had never been together in previous years or maybe they didn't have time to analyze who was who... I would even think that she participated in the many groups that the high school has.

...Okay, just one equation and that's it- Trish whispered, her face changing from one of incessant agony to one of satisfaction but it would change when she realized that Jennifer was watching her, she wasn't watching but rather curious about her, for her part the brunette just looked at her without giving herself the luxury of frowning or making faces, something that made the blonde feel uneasy before the blue eyes of that girl, she turned her head to her exam and a feeling of complications and difficulty ran through her body. How a moment of distraction turned into a real disaster, there were a few minutes left for the class to end and she was still halfway through

When Trish saw that worried young woman, she had no other response than to ignore her and return to her work, waiting for the hour to end while she made sketches in a notebook she had on her table.

Damn!- Jennifer said in a very low voice with clear frustration, hidden behind a face with no expression until she saw someone pass her a folded paper. One of her classmates signaled her to hide it while the teacher was waiting for who would be the first to hand it in. One of those who always gets good grades in everything stood up, only he's not as good at other skills, and that's how some people go. The young blonde did her best to try to answer everything, only she altered some things in case the teacher compared written tests.

There were about 5 students left, three were almost sobbing because of that test, it was torture even though they were able to do what they could while Jennifer hands in her test, at least gracefully and she felt relief, finally Trish packs her things and goes to the teacher's desk with her test, she goes to the door to go to her extracurricular class, to her misfortune she collides with Jennifer, making her fall the blonde and her bag, which opened to reveal what she was hiding with great effort.

Brushes, watercolors, markers, cutters... Trish just bends down and picks up her things quickly, nervously and thinking that everyone must be making fun of them, with everything put away she gets up to Jennifer to apologize to her... Not in the most appropriate way but it was still an apology. Jennifer had a surprised face that she apologized, she saw how she walked away to see a notebook on the floor, she exclaims but the other doesn't hear her scream

When I see her I'll give it back to her- Jennifer says as she opens that notebook, leafing through and snooping, flowers, watercolor tests, markers and ink, anatomical practices. The girl is amazed by all those drawings, Was she an artist? Was she inspired? Did Van Gogh possess her? Manet? Da Vinci? Artemisia?... All of that invaded Jennifer's mind, she thought that Trish was a problem child, a monster with the appearance of a nymph.

Jenny put that notebook in her purse. A group of her friends called her over, and she was right. The blonde girl listened to one of her friends' suggestions about something they saw on Friendnet, about a video of how the girl she bumped into dropped her purse and picked it up so quickly.

Oh poor creature, what wrong could she have done? - Said a girl, with an almost mocking tone of voice

But what would happen?- Jennifer asks, unable to think about that kind of thing anymore. She continued to look at the comments and saw a few people expressing their displeasure with that action, and several of those comments were derogatory.

Jennifer was just pretending, but deep down, she did have feelings for Trish. Perhaps because some saw her as reserved or unshakable.

Trish arrives at the art studio a few minutes late. She sits down at her desk to arrange her materials, buuuut something was missing... Where the hell was her notebook? A feeling of anxiety filled her entire body, her chest was starting to tighten. It was the first time she had lost something important.

Something's wrong, Miss Colletti? The art teacher asked her. He seemed to notice her strange anguish. The young woman took a breath and her anguished face changed to one of tranquility to hide the fact that she was looking for her sketchbook.

Nothing, everything is fine- She answers the teacher with a fake smile.

The teacher returns to his desk, and Trish takes advantage of this moment to pull out another notebook, one she'd only recently bought and wasn't going to use until she'd finished the one she'd lost. Today's class was nothing more than another still life... It was boring, but for the artist, it was obligatory. They were all young people with a very strange vision of humanity, feelings, and mundane things. Those there saw this as an escape, a place to share.

Damn... Where did she leave that notebook? Trish was thinking, she thought about all the possible places where she could have left it wrong, In the butcher shop? In her room? In her locker? Did her sister think it was one of her jokes? She was almost bursting into tears, she couldn't lose something that was always in her backpack.

Jennifer arrives home, greeting her mother. The woman was in the living room typing on her laptop. Vanessa smiled at her daughter as she walked toward her room with her backpack.

Jenny, what happened? Why are you going so fast? - watching her daughter holding that notebook with determination

Mmmm... Nothing mom, I'll be down later- He answers his mom

She explains to her mother that a classmate had left her notebook and forgotten it, and that the best thing she could do was save it until she could see it.

After art lessons, Trish and company head out. It was almost dark and time to head home. The girl wandered off and took out a cigarette and a lighter. It was a chaotic day, between the exam, the loss of her sketchbook, and extracurricular classes... Not to mention the moment she bumped into Jennifer, which almost made her react erratically.

She was taking a bus and through the window she could see the sky, a mixture of orange, dark blue, and pink, a contrast to the chaotic urban environment. She puts on her iPad's headphones, playing soft music while she contemplates the scenery. Arriving home, a black-haired man had recently come home from work, and the first thing he did was smile at his daughter, noticing her face, almost lost in thought.

Trish? Sweetie, are you okay? Did something happen at school? - Worried, Raoul sees and gets up from the couch where he was taking a short break from chores.

Nothing, Dad- the girl replies, smiling at him as she heads to her room. Something wasn't right. It wasn't the first time his youngest daughter had had problems. It's not easy being the father of two girls, especially one whose emotions are more extreme and the other whose emotions can be chaotic in many ways, but he still loves his girls.

I'm here Fagmilia- A high-pitched voice was heard at the door and it was the oldest, Aster arrived with the same smile as always, as well as with a six pack of beer and her shopping bag with striking fabrics.

Raoul's expression changed when he saw the eldest; he always saw laughter and moments of happiness in that chaotic being. Father and daughter went into the kitchen to make dinner. Aster also noticed her father's concern and her younger sister's sensitivity, trying to maintain calm and some order.

Dad, is something wrong? Did they call you from Trish's school? Any bastards hanging around the store? Any memories of Mom? - The two-toned girl had been used to thinking that her father would have complications, but this one seems unique.

I don't know, Trish is becoming more secretive every day and I can't figure it out, she didn't even show me her sketchbook

.... I understand... Maybe she couldn't do any art today or she must be stressed and that's why she didn't do anything - She answers her father with a wide smile, giving the reason that it could be that Trish isn't feeling well today. A slight relief came to the father's body until something was burning in the cauldron, acting immediately to put out the disaster.

Jennifer in her room would do what she did in the school hallway: flip through Trish's notebook again, see all those drawings and coloring tests again, an act that made her feel somewhat strange. On the other hand, Trish was in her room, headphones on, with several thoughts running through her head, only one almost making her blush... Especially when she saw her classmate's face.

What will be invading the minds of both teenagers?

Chapter Text

Jennifer almost fell asleep in literature class. It wasn't her strongest suit, but it's still good to see where great works of literature come from. Next to her was Trish, and she noticed her expression was a mix of attention and exhaustion as she wrote down what the teacher was talking about. Jennifer was about to pull out that notebook, which almost got her into trouble, until the literature teacher turned to the young blonde.

You can repeat what I said or at least make up a summary- says the teacher while raising an eyebrow

This... I'm... - His face paled at the presence of that woman, that caught Trish's attention who luckily for Jenny managed to respond, rather it was a nervous paraphrasing.

The Murders in the Rue Morgue tells the story of a mysterious double murder in Paris, where the police are frustrated and... - The teacher stops her, she could feel her heart about to jump out of her mouth from her nerves and sighs.

The same woman addresses Trish, the young woman takes a breath and what comes out of her mouth doesn't sound like her.

It is not surprising that Poe was the precursor of the detective novel, but many of his works have that aura of mystery combined with the supernatural or what makes human beings lose their minds, very similar to Quiroga's work... And I also agree with what my classmate says - Trish says after looking at her classmate, the only thing she could do was support Jennifer's explanation.

Okay, you both did well- the teacher smiles after putting them under pressure. She returns to her desk and sits down, continuing to read with a voice that interprets the facts. The girls were able to calm down. Jennifer smiles when she sees that Trish was able to defend her, or so she thought. Trish, for her part, was just scribbling in her notebook.

The bell rings and everyone leaves. The black-haired girl had this habit of leaving her class last and sees a small group of students. They were her friends from the art, music, and literature clubs. She couldn't deny them a smile. The group of friends went to various places in the school, usually the stairs, the hallways, the theater, the cafeteria, or to one of their houses. Today they opted for the cafeteria. Trish was happy, as if the stress generated by her problems and the loss of her notebook had disappeared.

Jennifer was with her group of friends, who, between mutters and murmurs, criticized and cursed the group that had entered. They considered them deviants, derailed, the evil flowers of the school... With the girl with black hair and blue eyes, their appearance changed; they thought she was the leader of that group, or perhaps the voice of reason.

Look at those weirdos, they keep shouting that they are artists - said Jessica, one of Jennifer's friends, she has a serious repulsion towards that group after one of them wanted to confess and dedicated songs to her, that not even a cheap show would dare to do that much.

I don't see them as bad, the girl who is there is very nice - Kimberly spoke, although she was in that circle she remembers well that the young artists have been generous with her with the school newspaper, which goes from its distribution to the image.

Jennifer was just listening to the testimonies, which were anything but pretty, but her brown eyes couldn't tear themselves away from Trish and her gang. Trish, sitting at the table, had a much better look at Jennifer. Seeing that pink dress with her loose blonde hair reminded her of the muses of the Italian Renaissance, more like the works of Boticcelli. But that vision was interrupted by Manuel da Silva, better known to his friends as "the Portuguese."

Hey, Ninha wake up - Manuel replies to Trish, causing her to wake up from that little trance with several clicks, she just directs her gaze to the boy

Are you okay? - Manuel asks her as if she were sick, what Trish does is grab her can of juice to open it.

Everything's fine, ragazzo- She answers with a mix of English with a characteristic Tuscan accent, to drink the juice that the can contains, his gaze is noticeable with an overwhelming seriousness as if the blue of his eyes had become icy stalactites.

I say, I say, since you were so distracted filha- The young Portuguese man only wanted to know how his friend was, more than a friend she was his neighbor and his parents get along wonderfully with the girl's father, they could almost imagine if the Da Silva and the Colletti made an agreement or a pact.

What if we make a really exquisite corpse? - Another member, Leonard, spoke up. A boy who belongs to the art club and is usually the most outgoing but quite awkward when it comes to talking to girls.

Mmmmm... I think we have company-  Ekaterina spoke, she had a cold look when she saw Jennifer approaching them, she was not the first time someone outside their circle approached them, they would think that they were going to ridicule them, insult them or play a heavy joke on them.

To everyone's surprise, the blonde approaches Trish, holding a thick, dark-covered notebook. Jennifer's hands are almost shaking in front of the black-haired girl, who, confused, doesn't know what to say when she sees the girl holding her sketchbook.

Hello, does this belong to you? No?- Jennifer spoke, waiting for a good answer, smiling slightly.

Trish just stood up suddenly, seeing that the sketchbook was in the hands of that girl was not a good sign, could it be a joke in bad taste by the popular ones? But her expression changes when she is still smiling, as if she saw her work.

You draw too cutely - Jennifer replies, still holding the notebook.

These words would not only be to appreciate art, it was like a flirtation without jokes

...Thank you... -Trish replies belatedly, her head down, blushing and embarrassed by the incident. She raises her head and carefully takes the notebook.

The girl in the pink dress is stunned. She thought she might get beaten up or start a scene. She takes this action as a sign that her job is done and is about to head back to her table until Trish's voice rings out again.

Thank you so much, Trish shouts, this action was just to get her attention and her lips form a sweet smile

Jennifer only returns the gesture, she returns to her friends and they look at her strangely.

I couldn't keep it... - Jennifer just says it for the sake of it, she didn't want to give reasons to return something intact. If it were someone else, maybe she'd burn it, scratch it, or throw it in a bucket of paint... Just to destroy a heart just to please others.

You're acting really weird, you should look in the mirror- Jessica says with a shocked expression, then looks at the leader of that group with a dark expression as if she has seen a monster or a witch.

That little group of weirdos dedicated to art resume their conversations and each take out a pencil and paper, each one jotting down a random word to begin this strange ritual. Joy returns to Trish, she regained a part of herself and opened her sketchbook and to her surprise her works were still intact, without marks or scratches with black marker or lipstick.

How did you lose that?- Manuel asks Trish about how she lost her notebook, which could be her life's work.

...Things just happened...- Trish answers between laughs, suddenly her head is invaded again with that incident, making her stop laughing and remain silent.

Well, if you say so - Manuel finishes speaking to his friend, an awkward silence dominating the group. Each person jots down a word to complete a sentence, an action that is truly nonsensical with poetry.

Let's get started, damn it! - Leonard shouts impatiently. He couldn't wait any longer for his leader and his right-hand man to be talking.

Manuel and Trish began writing, then passed the papers to Leonard and Ekaterina, then the rest followed until they had a mix of poems, profanities, swear words, and praise—a very creative collage, one might say. Each person proceeded to deliver their line; it was like a bad joke, but they loved it. Several groups, including popular ones, listened to the prayers and laughter of these artists. Jennifer was drawn to these activities; they weren't like gossiping, following the latest trends, or going to the mall. Although she didn't do much of that kind of activity, she found them charming.

The young people leave; it's time to head to their respective classes. Trish grabs her things and sees Jennifer with that innocent smile. Jennifer was distracted, talking with her group of friends. If embarrassment didn't get the better of her, or if her prejudices about people didn't leave her alone, she could talk to Jenny and her circle.

Chapter Text

It was around 8:30 pm and the Colletti sisters were exchanging words while smoking in the backyard of the house, the eldest couldn't stop talking about her job and the stupid things her boss does while the youngest just nodded her head.

In short, your boss is an idiot - Trish says after exhaling the cigarette smoke, although she loves to draw and create her biggest fear is having someone like her sister's boss

That zoccolo doesn't know who he's messing with - Aster says with mocking laughter, he felt like a jester in a court, accepting his destiny as a designer who rather seemed to be in some kind of circus with the visceral descriptions he makes to his boss and coworkers

There's also that idiot Bryan, who thinks being Mr. Wright's ass-kisser will get him a promotion or a job change - says the woman with black and white hair while playing with her lighter.

Trish just watched the fire generated by that device, she shifts her gaze to the sky and is perplexed by the starless and moonless night, then she contemplates the lights of the garden lamps. Aster continued shouting and then shut his mouth and saw his little sister so distracted, it seemed strange to him since almost always in their conversations they looked into each other's eyes and synchronized their emotions and feelings, her mind had crossed about her parents' divorce or some incident.

Sorella? - Aster asks her and puts his hand on Trish's shoulder, causing her to react and return to having contact with the ground

Yes...- The dark-haired girl answers and sees so much ash on her jeans and hands, to see her sister who had a face that said she saw someone lost... Or that's what she thought.

Are you okay? You've been like this for a whole week? Don't tell me you fell in love again- Aster says, shrugging his shoulders and smiling from ear to ear. He needed to hear some good news.

I wish it were that- Trish responds annoyed and crosses her arms. She didn't want to believe that her sister would start with her heavy jokes and sense of humor, especially in serious, critical moments. She didn't even want her to make jokes about her misfortunes.

Well, well, well, now... How bitter- He says it sarcastically and his face changes to one of genuine anger, Aster gets up and opens the door of the house.

Aster, you shouldn't have asked that - Trish replied, she didn't want Aster to get angry because of a tantrum or a bad answer on her part either.

Aster is pleased that her sister recognizes that she can't anger her, much less challenge her authority. She cheerfully enters and laughs, her laughter like a chorus of hyenas. Trish gets up and goes to her room. In her room, she's already preparing her work table, taking out colored pencils and a larger notebook. She turns on her computer and opens her favorite pages, also searching for some music or podcasts so she doesn't feel lonely while she's drawing.

In the hallway where the two's rooms and the master bedroom were, Raoul was standing and could hear a playlist coming from Trish's bedroom, several of which reminded her of her younger days as well as others that perfectly described what she felt, what the man did was knock on the bedroom door, the youngest daughter only responded that she could come in. The father found his daughter drawing while she had Boccelli on her playlist, as her desk was filled with random sketches and a drawing she was just starting to do, Raoul came in and sat on Trish's bed while she maintained eye contact.

Trish, daughter... - The black-haired man was about to speak to her until he heard a song that was nothing more than a nostalgia trip for him, his brown eyes almost filled with tears at the lyrics.

Yes, Dad? - Pause the playlist to listen to a sermon or testament from your father,

It's nothing, you can play that song again—Raoul wanted to hear that melody again, one he longed for, beautiful moments that might never return unless a miracle happens. The young girl only got up from her chair to hug her father. She wasn't an expert, but it pained her to see her father touched by nostalgia.

Elsewhere, at the Carters' house

Jennifer searched the library for a book that caught her attention, finding only books on accounting, business, computer science, and the occasional anthology of novels... until she found one with a leather cover and gold lettering. Her brown eyes were wide open. What could this book be? A gift from a dear friend? Or a token of the purest love?

What a beautiful book - said Jennifer, as soon as she opens it she smells the stench of that object, for unknown time, the pages were yellowed by time, the girl could feel that time was going backwards, where love was expressed in written letters and outings in the open air, it was a magnificent journey until she hears her mother's voice

Jenny, darling, what are you doing with that?- Vanessa smiles at her daughter, giggling to see what the younger one was doing, and calls her with a hand signal to bring the book. Her daughter comes and approaches the sofa.

You found one of the gifts that an acquaintance of mine gave me. Years have passed since I met your father. The mother said, remembering her youth, when men sent her gifts, but they all crumbled when she met Jeremy Carter, the man who, apart from winning her heart, became the father of her two daughters.

He must have been a Casanova- Jennifer laughs, imagining what her mother must have been like in her younger years. She looks for a page where the following was written:

"If you want to be my star, I promise to be your sky."

But I shouldn't speak ill of your dad either, I still love him like you and Mary do too- The mother tenderly strokes the young blonde's hair, she sees that the girl's face was trying to communicate something but she didn't know how to do it, it seems that she still remembers that boy who played with her heart but that changes in front of the young girl who captivated her since she saw his drawings.

It must have been a nice story... - Jenny said in a soft voice, her imagination was able to recreate something similar to what her mother told, only instead of a Casanova there was a female figure, she returns to reality abruptly as if that fantasy dissolved before speaking to the blonde woman about whether love can have so many forms.

Mother and daughter read that collection of poems, from those cheesy verses to visceral descriptions of a tormented lover. Jennifer was fascinated by reading, if she treated it as a hobby and passion, very different from what she had to pay attention to and listen to in class... If Trish weren't here, she'd be in a real abyss. She could only see and hear her in class, not in other places, or catch her off guard and talk to her, hug her, and confess.

If confession weren't so difficult, all relationships would be a piece of cake, but it's all a tangle.

Chapter Text

It was a Monday and it was barely 5:30 am, the moment when Raoul gets up to start the week and the hard work, many business owners can afford to continue sleeping or to arrive late but he had another ideal about running his business and work, then came Trish, who apparently got used to getting up early, she could only afford to continue sleeping in on Sundays... What these two wanted most would be if Aster could keep up with her or make an effort

The clock struck 7:00 a.m., and from a uniquely decorated room, the eldest daughter stirred in bed, trying to overcome her laziness as she went to the bathroom for her hygiene routine and the ritual of showing off her rare and spectacular hair. Still, she felt sleepy and sleepless, until the scent of coffee brought her back to earth, as if sleep didn't exist. They could give her any drink, but coffee was the divine brew for Aster.

Are we off to a good start yet? Aren't we, mia famiglia? - Aster speaks with energy, energy provided by three cups of coffee. Her father and sister could almost see it alarming that the most articulate of them had this addiction.

Don't look at me like that, you would do the same too... Maybe not Trish, well you understand me- Aster said that sermon while she was already pouring another cup, her father stops her

You're going to have an arrhythmia, daughter - The father claims seriously, he loves her and everything but perhaps one of her negative points like the coffee, the constant sleeplessness, her smoking habits and being a bit of a troublemaker is what also makes him worried about the eldest, on the other hand the youngest only laughs, very unusual in Trish especially in her short 16 years.

You know dad, she's that hopeless but I still love my mia sorella- He takes a sip of latte while looking around the dining room,

The family takes respective paths to their destinies.

At the butcher shop

Raoul looks at his watch, the time to open his business while he waited for his workers and apprentices, among them Raphael, who was still wondering whether he should continue working after what happened between the boy and his daughter or fire him. It is complex to deal with something that has on the balance, such as someone's need to continue surviving or the feelings of a family member, all he had left was to continue and breathe deeply until he found a solution that wouldn't harm the two young people, a daughter who is blood to his blood and his apprentice who saw him as a son too.

On the way to high school

Trish was going to enter that place while Manuel arrives and accompanies her, the girl felt relief every time one of her friends arrives to accompany her, she could take advantage of the few minutes she had left before entering. What she didn't know was that Jennifer arrived at the same time as Manuel, those brown eyes look at her making the blue-eyed girl feel that strange sensation again, only instead of it hitting her vertebrae, it runs through her ribcage to her heart... It would almost reach her lungs if that feeling were more serious.

Young Da Silva pats his friend on the back. This is the second time the sky-blue-eyed girl has been perplexed by this popular girl. The two are on their way to class and say goodbye without first agreeing to go out together with Aster.

Elsewhere, in a textile factory

A rather peculiar place where printing and creativity reigned supreme, very different from what you see in the industrial area. In the aisles, Aster was running back and forth with designs and prints for the next products that will be the hottest items in department stores.

Mr. Wright, the prints are ready - Aster shouts happily, since she found that job that can have its risks, it was gratifying for her to work in what she studies.

Wow, you're so fast! - Her boss said with a slightly stern voice. He recognized the girl's talent, but screwing with her patience and calmness was his passion. He quickly thought of something that would make the young worker smile.

Is something wrong, boss? - Aster raises an eyebrow, wondering if there might be something wrong with his work, or maybe there might be a problem when adding the designs to the garments.

Perfect and all, but I need you to get more attention - Her boss speaks to her, with a smile on his side with the idea that he finally managed to get the gray-haired girl to

Aster simply freezes because yelling and insulting him is useless; he wasn't at home, much less at the family business. She takes a deep breath and picks up the prints and drawings that were ready for silkscreen printing.

How do you send it?-Aster said with a raspy voice and a fake smile, one of those that makes your cheeks hurt. He heads to his cubicle and throws his work on the table, echoing the silence of the design area.

Figglio da puttana- Aster says it with such passion, he sits down in front of the computer to design again.

This man makes my hair turn grayer- He says ironically while shaking his hair with his hands, then runs his hand through it and then shakes his bangs.

The young woman takes action, transforming that rage into creativity and inspiration. Her colleagues are startled every time Aster clicks her mouse and keyboard, if not in the computer lab, then in the sewing department. At work, she is nothing more than an almost demonic being, a slave to her salary and a disastrous artist.

"Uuuuuuffff, how calming!"- said a worker from a corner while taking a glass of water.He almost envied that young woman's attitude; several of her coworkers wouldn't approach them when she was in a bad mood.

One of the maintenance workers brought several cups of coffee for the employees, but one was exclusively for the girl whose energy could transform into chaos if she wanted. He approached her cubicle and placed the cup on her desk. The young woman with two-tone hair left her keyboard for a moment and calmed down. She couldn't drink that coffee with the rage in her veins.

Returning to school, already at dismissal time

Manuel and Trish were waiting for Aster, for something he wanted to show her that he did at work. The friends were exchanging words and laughter, even Manuel had the audacity to make fun of his friend when she sees something that leaves her engrossed, imitating the fact that the girl's eyes become glassy, the only thing missing was for her hazel eyes to be blue or a lighter color.

Neither did Manuel - Trish lightly hit the Portuguese who, knowing that he did not do it out of malice, did not know how to talk to his friend and neighbor about how that blonde girl could be the representation of everything good and sweet that can be in life.

Out of a taxi comes that girl with her black hair and her distinctive locks, a monochromatic baby tie, cargo jeans, Converse, and chains and belts for accessories. She was none other than Aster, who managed to escape his slavery early. She greets both youths with a brotherly hug, the kind that can break ribs, to laugh and then go with them to the neighborhood where they live. Manuel and Trish notice that Aster's mascara and eyeshadow are smudged, as is her hair. Aster goes to get some drinks, a habit she's adopted to forget about work and come home with an empty mind.

How was work? - Trish says when she saw that messy makeup, as if she were a rockstar starting to decline, sometimes she would like to understand well the world where her sister is, if it can be similar to an art workshop.

Everything's fine, except the boss is getting more annoying every day- Aster said as he uncorked a ginger beer, and with that last word, he downed the drink in one gulp. His face was nothing but a frown, and his perfume was full of stress.

Aster, Minha Querida, you can find another job or start your own business - Manuel said it just to make Aster smile, but who smiles when you are tired of the same thing or the same routine but with increased intensity and misfortunes.

... I don't think everything will be like this - Aster finishes and continues drinking, Trish and Manuel only saw each other, they didn't want to arrive with a drunk designer on a Monday, the young woman noticed the faces of the two and decides to stop drinking and find a way to go home, in her mind she only thought about going to bed or watching something that could be on the internet, or watching a movie with her little sister.

The young woman pays for the drinks, and the two young men head out to catch the bus. During the ride, they only talked to each other so as not to disturb the other passengers. Upon arriving at the building, the two sisters escort the young Portuguese man to the entrance of his house and bid him farewell as they head home. The girls stared at each other, noticing the mingled emotions in both their gazes.

One wanted a miracle to happen at work, while the other wanted to stop hiding.

Chapter Text

At school, in the science lab, several fourth-year students were about to do their practical work, on how to slice a cattle heart for study. Several wore gloves, some gagging; it was a grotesque sight, except for Trish, who apparently got used to it since it was very common in the family business. Touching bloody meat no longer disgusted her... Something Jennifer envied; she longed to have those nerves and temper of steel.

Okay Katya, take notes of everything while I take care of the dirty work - Trish talks to her partner while slicing that cow's heart, she felt like one of her favorite plastic artists, from the time when it was common to go to morgues to draw human anatomy, for her part Ekaterina just took notes and described all the activity

At another table, Jennifer was trying to cut out the heart, but the scalpel kept slipping as she made the cut, as she found it unpleasant to do such a task. Jessica was just watching her friend make each failed attempt, not even daring to move a single finger. The Italian-American and Russian girls were watching with cold eyes as the popular girl tortured the girl who did all that work.

She doesn't even dare to move a finger - says the Russian girl with a mocking tone, making a movement of her hands simulating having the perfect manicure, Trish just laughs at the gesture but it made her feel sorry as she also saw a potential accident, she stops the scalpel for a moment and goes to wash her hands to go to the work table where Jennifer and Jessica are

Are you going to help her? Are you okay in the head?-Katya says with a raspy voice and a frown. It seems as if her groupmate is lost or isn't the same Trish she knows.

You can cut a finger- Trish said in response. When she goes she sees a real disaster while Jennifer was about to cry for not knowing how to do something like that, she was going to give up while Jessica just scolds her for not making a single cut, Trish just takes a deep breath to explain.

Do you need help? - With a raised eyebrow and seriousness he asks both girls, who was almost going to tell the queen bee of the group that she was nothing more than a ridiculous being but just swallows his words.

Yes! - Jenny answers almost screaming, she was about to faint from not doing anything. The young woman with black hair takes that organ that was about to be deformed from so many attempts, makes a crosswise cut and then separates it as if it were a loaf of bread, exposing the fibers and the entire anatomy of that heart, Jennifer was shocked by that spectacle, holding back her disgust a little she goes and touches the fibers and veins, it was strange but fascinating, she was going to thank her but she saw Trish going to her table cleaning her hands with a handkerchief.

That girl is weird- Jessica said with a sarcastic tone, it was already something worthy of vomiting someone who can do that without feeling fear or anything like that, Jennifer just turns her gaze upon hearing Jessica and proceeds to write down and try to draw the organ as similar as she could. On Trish and Katya's table they already had the notes, they only had to draw that heart, a task that only Trish was and in that she takes out her colored pencils.

Jennifer sketched and erased each stroke, you could hear the blonde's pencil and at the same time the colors of the brunette girl. Jenny was about to throw in the towel and stops the pencil and goes to that couple just to look around, Trish was with pencils in red, purple tones and some other blue marker, everything was fine until she sees the shadow of the popular girl, for her hands, she stops drawing... She didn't like people to see her draw unless it was the ones she knew.

So? How are you doing with yours?-Jenny says in a sweet voice, with a smile when she sees that Trish was drawing the heart and not just cut out, there were several drawings of a cow's heart from the front view to the veins. She didn't have time to hide them and she just feels sorry.

Regular... I think so - The voice of the black-haired girl sounded depressed, as if she were destroying herself even though she had talent for drawing and painting, her partner Ekaterina just crosses her arms and takes a deep breath, in her own way expressing that type of attitude that she saw as losers.

Oh come on! We're doing well! I'd say excellent, even better than the know-it-alls' work! - The Russian girl said in a raspy voice, holding back her urge to hit her classmate, but what could she do in front of her in front of third parties? The two girls were able to talk, but not in the best way. Jennifer looked for a stool and sat down to see more of what they were doing.

She wanted to see an artist draw, Trish felt cornered just by having Jennifer in front of her, she couldn't do anything, she had no choice but to play dumb and keep drawing while she did her best to ignore her, to pretend she didn't exist even though inside she wanted her to see her draw, create art. She continued drawing and Jennifer watched everything as if it was like witnessing a performance, a happening in a class where that doesn't exist, while Trish continued drawing, trying to use the blood that was left from that sliced heart, from using it as paint to using her fingers to take notes on a separate sheet of paper.

Katya and Jenny exchanged glances when they saw Trish use the red liquid for a task. Trish, for her part, takes a deep breath and smiles at the thought that what she had in her head was able to be captured on paper. She looks for some rags and a sprayer to clean the workspace. The Russian girl helps her while the blonde takes the assignment from the two of them while they were cleaning the blood and remains of that heart. Jennifer's eyes were amazed not only by the handwriting, but by that drawing that was already strange but had that charm. The black-haired girl with light eyes asks her to give her back her work.

Do you like it? Don't you?-Trish asks Jennifer, trying to remain firm even though her cheeks were slightly flushed, and it wasn't her skin.

I don't like it, I love it! -Jennifer said in a voice that showed she was impressed by the beauty of life. She was still fascinated by seeing Trish draw. She could already have her as her favorite artist. If she wanted, she could have her above all the actors and singers of today just because she was in her school. She turned around and saw Jessica with a sour face, something that made her stomach turn when she saw her group leader giving her that threatening look.

Hey... If you want, we can meet after class- Suggests the blonde before leaving, she felt a lump in her throat and esophagus but at the same time she was calm after telling her that she likes the way she draws.

Okay, we can meet at the lockers- The brunette tells her, while putting away her colors and drawing pad, she noticed that Jennifer felt uncomfortable and that she almost noticed that she must have a knot inside.

It was almost time to end the class and Jennifer didn't know what face to put on Jessica just because she wanted to see what the two weirdos' homework was like (although there are more). Did she know what her punishment was and was she destined to accept it? All because she went to see a girl's work? Her mind was playing a horror movie, not only was Jessica there but also her other classmates and that moment she longed for could wait.

Very well, and now you owe us an explanation - The brown-haired girl replies to the young blonde about her carelessness.

This... - She fell silent, thinking of a lie, wanting to protect her skin and prevent them from looking for that dark-haired girl who was just starting to talk to her, she would tell her that she just wanted to see what her notes were like to see if she could do the same, the worst deception she could do to herself just to look good with her little group.

The bell was already ringing and several were leaving and then Trish came out, Jennifer was stunned to see that black hair move as she came out, as well as wearing a floral dress that matched her eyes and a golden necklace, how someone so beautiful, angelic could have put on a bizarre show and still come out as if she hadn't cut flesh or stained her hands with blood, even so it wasn't bizarre or aberrant to her, perhaps artists are much more than eccentric beings.

Chapter Text

Jennifer was still in the lab and she could see how Jessica and company were about to scold her and the only thing she could do was lie to them.

I was just seeing if she could copy me- Jennifer replied exhaustively, with sweat running down her temples. She felt a slight trembling in her body because she felt that these girls could smell that lie.

Trish went to her locker to get her art supplies, as she was also waiting for Jennifer. It seemed like she'd stayed to talk to someone; she was probably in the bathroom touching up her makeup. Where could that girl be? Suddenly, she heard footsteps, probably caused by sandals. It was Jennifer, her eyeliner smudged, and she was clenching her fists. It looked like something had happened to her.

The brunette is shocked. She's never seen the blonde girl in that state before. She always saw her smiling and flirtatious with the boys, but it was at this moment that she saw she was truly upset, as if someone had hurt her. She closes her locker and sets aside her materials to approach.

Are you okay?-She mixed her tears with mascara and eyeliner, her heart about to break at the sight of her crying. Trish asked and saw some wet wipes in her bag. While she was cleaning up the mess on her face, they headed to the art studio, taking advantage of the fact that the teacher hadn't arrived yet.

Jennifer was completely upset about a lot of things, one of them being that she didn't do well on her biology assignment, that her clique was bullying her, that she let her guard down just because she wanted to watch Trish do her work, and now she's at a point where she thinks she must be making her uncomfortable.

Oh, I don't know what I did! - The blonde screams at the brunette, that lie was only to protect her and also to protect herself from the punishments of the girls she always shared.

Did they do something to you? Tell me! - Trish speaks to her with a serious tone of voice, if she learned anything from her older sister is that she should not let herself be bothered or touched and if you are strong enough protect the weakest no matter if they are vulnerable or innocent, but without knowing what is happening she can't do anything

The blonde just shakes her head, something that makes Trish annoyed since she can't guess, or maybe Jennifer doesn't want her to confront her. The two girls stay in the class room, just staring at each other. The blue-eyed girl was preparing her work table and looked for another chair for the brown-eyed girl. She took out her materials and notebook while she turned on the kettle in the living room and prepared two cups of Jamaican tea. The two enjoyed the tea and how the blonde managed to calm down, which relieved Trish.

The girl opens her notebook and sees the vase the teacher had used as decoration, where she begins to sketch and then paint with her watercolors. Jenny is amazed, as she saw that the girl who was in class was not the same. That furrowed brow, the severity, and the ability to get angry easily, she saw someone who relaxed when painting, like her expression was different. It was time for the other students and the art teacher to arrive, who, fortunately, had someone outside that world, finally a listener, a spectator.

Jenny just smiles at the fact that she felt welcomed, which was a sign to keep seeing that girl who from now on will only be the artist of her dreams.

How wonderful, we have company-said the art teacher with joy when he saw that Jennifer was there. What he didn't know was that she didn't have much artistic ability, but she liked seeing that there were several boys and girls from the high school who were dedicated to it.

The boys prepare to continue their paintings; others were about to start a new piece. Everyone seems deeply immersed in their work. Trish, no exception, gets up and goes to look at a still-fresh painting on an easel. She just wants to see if something bad has happened to it, or if there's been an accident with the cleaning staff. Jennifer follows her, and what she sees is breathtaking.

How beautiful - That was what came out of Jennifer's mouth, her eyes couldn't tear away, it was hypnotic.

Isn't it beautiful? Isn't it?- Trish said as she looked at her painting, which gave her multiple headaches because not only was she in love with that boy who made her false promises, but the breakup they'd had was also affecting her even while she was painting.

Among her classmates was Manuel, who saw that the painting was worthy of a gallery. Jennifer sees the young man with hazel eyes, whom she barely knows; he always accompanies Trish, whether at the entrance or when classes end. At first, Jennifer would think they were siblings... There wasn't much physical difference between the Portuguese and Italians. The young Portuguese man tells her to see what she's doing, and the two girls accepted.

They went to the boy's work area and saw that he had also been working, but with photographs and clippings, making it clear that he likes to experiment with both collage and painting, something that his teacher may not fully understand. Jennifer looked at each one's work; perhaps she doesn't know it, but not everyone tolerates the presence of someone outside the group. The only one who found his stay pleasant was Trish, because she found her a place where she could turn if some miserable person hurt her or made her cry... Very similar to when her sister Aster found her that refuge when she was teased for her appearance or just for drawing.

Okay guys, I want you to listen to me! - The teacher spoke loudly, it was a sign that they should pay attention to him for the most part. Maybe he was going to say that supplies arrived or that there would be a school fair and the best thing they could do was to give him a pretty face for that event. Trish and Jennifer sat down just to see what the teacher would say, Trish had her arms crossed and a stubborn expression, Jenny found it terrifying to see her like that because of the fact that she didn't know what it could mean, Will they leave her out this time? Will it be painting pennants again or should she and company give them a good image for a sporting event? The teacher claps five times and clears his throat

Listen! - The teacher replies with more enthusiasm

We're cordially invited to the Grimboroung Young Artist Fair, boys. The man becomes happier than his own pupils. He was that teacher who always believes in young talent and believes that any human being can create art. The boys were excited and almost screamed at this news. Trish stops her arms and her eyes light up.

But when? - says a girl who was painting, there were paint stains on her clothes, even on her face

This event will take place in the historic center, it will be on May 20th starting at 10:00 am, we must organize to locate their works and easels so they can paint live, the locals are more than attentive to see them - Said the professor while running his hand through his beard.

I suggest we report it in the school newspaper - Jennifer says with emotion, it could be a way to help that group but more so her favorite artist, which could be a nice gesture or one of love.

It could be a good idea - Manuel says while smiling, it would be the first time that he and his classmates are going to exhibit outside the school where they study, at the same time he thinks that his work will be known by people who are studied in that subject.

The blonde is happy to hear the Portuguese approve of that idea, it was an initiative to make the school aware of this extracurricular group and that they not only made the posters, banners and murals for the institute's events, she turns her gaze to the brunette and sees that her lips were forming a smile and her eyes of that icy blue inspired tenderness, as if she were an innocent little girl.

After art class and a celebration about that big event, everyone goes out like it was a flock of birds, they couldn't stop talking about what they will do for that day. Trish was already on her way to catch the bus and at that moment Jennifer stops her, having a bottle of water for the young artist and also for her, she gets even closer to her with a cute smile making Trish feel a little strange, after that moment where she saw her helpless she changed to feeling good and with that beautiful energy that she radiates, very different from the group of popular ones.

What great news, you're going to exhibit there! - Jennifer wanted to celebrate that achievement where that girl was going to exhibit her work, although she was curious about her work she could only see what she did in her notebook and in the classroom, she was about to ask her if she had more paint or if she did more forms of art.

Oh yeah... Which is more than good news - Trish was nervous as she stood before her, she just opened the water bottle and gulped down the vital liquid in one gulp, feeling like a blow to her chest from swallowing like crazy. Jennifer felt strange about it; in the living room she was too calm, peaceful, but when she was alone with her she acted extremely strange.

Poor thing, she must be stressed- Jennifer's mind was analyzing that behavior

So, can you tell me your name?-The brown-eyed girl spoke in a soft voice, given that she hadn't seen that girl's ID, which she most likely always had saved... Perhaps that girl prefers to be called by a nickname, one that is affectionate and easy to pronounce.

Patricia- Said the black-haired woman, but when she mentions it a very distinctive accent resonates... Almost Latin, it was nothing more than a Tuscan accent

But everyone calls me Trish - said with a nervous smile; that nickname was heard more than her own name. She knew Jennifer's name because it was so common and she always went to the butcher shop, except she was busy with customer service and keeping accounts and inventory.

Nice name, I love it- The girl is impressed to see that the girl who calmed her down and the one who could have seen her artwork had told her her name. Jennifer blushes when she hears Trish speak with that accent, she imagined that she could flirt with her or recite a poem in Italian even if she doesn't have much idea of it. The bus arrives and the two young women get on, there were only two seats left which they go and sit down, it was an awkward moment and not because one was bigger than the other, it was difficult for Trish to maintain eye contact with Jennifer while the blonde looked at the brunette who was looking out the bus window at the stops of each destination.

Av.____ .

Bye, bye- Jennifer gets off the bus to go home without first saying goodbye to Trish with that same smile but accompanied by a farewell with her right hand, where she was located was a very well-structured urbanization and it seemed that there was peace, she wouldn't know which house she lives in but at least there was a reference point.

Bye...- Trish waves goodbye with her hand, almost with a slight blush, the same one that appears every time she sees that young girl, she looks at the roof of the bus and takes a deep breath, the day is practically over for her with the happy news that she is going to exhibit in one of the most pictorial places in Grimboroung and she was also able to have more contact with that girl... Although everything falls apart thanks to her shyness

Last stop- the driver said, and Trish jumped up when she saw that the driver had dropped her off four stops away from her house. The young woman with light eyes was about to have a breakdown when she realized that she had to walk several kilometers to get home, but she had to do it because it was also her fault for not being careful and not paying attention to the stops and avenues. It was already nighttime, and she decided to hurry up.

At the Colletti house

Raoul and Aster were playing cards after doing everything that was left to do around the house, although they were doing that because they no longer knew how to avoid the nerves of Trish not coming home early, they even called her and only the voicemail could be heard.

Oh come on! - Aster says worriedly and throws the cards on the table, the older sister could not bear the anguish and despair when she saw that her calls and messages were not answered

Aster, relax, Trish may have complicated something or a last minute meeting came up - Raoul reassures the young woman with black and white hair, he knows that Trish should not be in an unknown place unless she had called him.

But now?! - The eldest practically didn't know what to do, that indelible smile turned to concern, she didn't like the idea of her younger sister coming home too late or without warning.

Father and daughter heard keys and someone opening the door and it was Trish... Only she was sweaty and with her hair messy, she had barely entered and what she did was leave her purse and backpack aside and throw herself on the sofa, it seemed like she was being chased when in reality it was her carelessness for not being aware of the bus.

Trish, daughter, what happened to you? - The father asks excitedly and looks for a glass of water,

Nothing... Just that the bus left me stranded- Trish said with a weak voice, she just wanted to take a cold shower and go to bed, all that jogging she did left her feeling sick, with no energy to paint. But it didn't compare to that little moment she had with that girl.

Okay, you better take a bath and eat your dinner that is served, you almost gave me a heart attack- Aster answers almost annoyed, but calms down when he sees that she arrived safe and sound and without any damage, he just takes a breath and makes a small smile

The father brings a glass of water for the youngest and calms his other daughter by patting her on the shoulder. The girl's father and sister still don't know why she wasn't paying attention on the bus, nor the reason.

Even so, Trish still remembers the smile of that pretty girl, who still doesn't know what surprises life will give her if she also gives clues

Chapter Text

Saturday, and for many teenagers Trish's age, they do blonde hair, sleep in... But that day was for work and starting to understand how hard the adult life can be. On weekends, the girl barely had time for a black coffee; she needed to recharge her batteries and have enough mental strength to serve customers. At her father's job, she didn't do the dirty work, although if he let her go for a moment, she'd be talking to the workers and almost acting like them without losing her gentleness. That attitude reminded him of that girl's mother, a delicate woman with a firm hand.

At the butcher shop

It was already 7:45 am and it was time to open the business. Raoul arrived a few minutes late, but it was obvious; having a daughter can be a bit tedious, especially if you want to look good, or at least not look so tired or seem sleepy.

Good morning Raoul - Several of his employees greet him, who saw that he opened the locks and doors.

Buon guiorno- Responds the black-haired man while forcefully raising the gate, the employees have accidentally learned some words in Italian since working with Mr. Colletti, either because they see him talking to some men in suits, or because of calls they make to him, they can even say that the youngest has taught them the difference between a compliment in that language and a real insult.

Good morning everyone - The girl greets them with a smile to hide her tiredness a little, all that happiness was for the event that will take place but that was about to go away when she sees a young black-haired man approach the group, it was Raphael who still could not afford to give up.

Good morning- Raphael spoke with a serious tone of voice, it wasn't that he had a bad day but rather it was because he saw the boss's daughter, his green eyes changed from threatening to simply with little empathy, at a certain point he regretted having broken up with her.

Good morning... - Trish answers with an almost hoarse voice and a frown, she was trusting her sister's words when she said that her father was going to have things under control or perhaps fate has a dirty trick on her to make her lose her calm and sanity.

The butcher's boss saw that there was a moment of tension, which he managed to interrupt by clearing his throat.

We have work to do, nothing's going to get done on its own -the burly man commented. From the moment they had that argument, I knew Trish and Raphael were going to get along like cats and dogs. Trish entered the store to turn on the sales terminals and the computer where inventory and accounts were kept, while also managing the store's phone. Raphael was with other employees in the warehouse; it was a very different place from the store's facade; it had a more rustic and cold appearance.

Still not over your girlfriend? - Jokes a coworker, this man says it based on his experience

She's not my girlfriend anymore! - Raphael replies sharply, still remembering the few nice moments he had with the young woman.

Oh come on man, you almost played with her heart and she still loved you - That man said while making a face, he just kept cutting the recipes

What happened between us is in the past, the only thing I can do is wish him well and health, and if he can find someone else - said that boy with green eyes, who only continued to dirty his hands with the blood released by those hanging animals.

At the store, Trish was taking a deep breath after serving a few customers, some friendly and a few who didn't even have any rules of courtesy, but it was already the norm in a business. What she didn't like much was when someone flirted with her, something that made her lose her rhythm when it came to doing the math. The bell on the door of the butcher shop was heard; a girl came in, and it was none other than Jennifer, who had come to buy something. The young woman with black hair, upon hearing the bell and seeing the blonde come in, was the trigger for her to lose her composure.

Good morning... How can we help you? - Trish spoke nervously and gulped when she found out that this is not the way to greet clients, especially ones who come constantly. Her heart was beating faster until she heard her dad's voice, who at least could hide the stupid thing she was doing.

Hello Jenny, how are you dear? - Raoul said, happy to see her, she was a girl as sweet as honey

Wow, wow, I see this business has charm - said the young blonde with a flirtatious tone while playing with one of the strands of her hair, her flirting and compliments were just for joking but this time what she said was for the girl who was serving at the cashier in which she looks at her to smile at her

It's just a butcher shop... There's no charm, just meat- Trish answers but blushing, in her life she had never heard something like that, much less that she was caught off guard. The father noticed that his daughter was not in her right mind, as if there was something between the two making him feel a little strange.

Sorry Jenny, Trish is a bit of an introvert - Raoul says this as if to justify his daughter's answer

Don't worry, sir, you're obviously a sweetheart- Jennifer still couldn't stop praising her, as if making her blush was fun. She hadn't considered that she might be distracted if she went to take an order, do some math, or suddenly started talking her head off.

Can we take your order? Yes?- the brunette asks dryly. She didn't want flattery at that moment, nor sweet words... Although her heart wanted them to dedicate the most tender words to her.

Jennifer had to stop. She'd already angered Trish with her flirting, but she saw a lot of charm when she got angry. If she could, she could try to make her laugh, cry, beg, any feeling, but today wasn't the right time or place. The girl took out a small notebook with everything she needed to buy written down. She tore off the page and handed it to the checkout lady. The list had a light fruity-floral scent, accompanied by writing done in bright pink ink.

Wow Trish, I've never seen that side of you before- said the blonde girl who wanted to continue until her order was delivered, while Trish for her part leaves the register and talks to one of the workers to do what is on the list as she makes sure there is no mistake and returns to where she was.

Well... You know, I have to help with the family business - Trish jokes, holding back her nerves, her fingers rhythmically touching the Formica that covered the counter, her nails clicking until another bell sounds and other customers come in. The dark-haired girl sees that several arrive and still has Jenny in front of her, the girl with brown eyes saw behind her that Trish still had work to do, so she steps aside and waits for her order.

The employee gave her what the blonde ordered. Everything was in order, and he thought about glancing back at the Italian-American. The girl didn't notice until she saw her leaving the store. That brief moment made her smile, but it was interrupted by the growling voice of an older customer, bringing her back to reality.

An inter-day break

It was time for a break between shifts, outside the warehouse was that girl lighting a cigarette while she saw how everything was relatively in order, if only she didn't see that boy who dedicated his love to her and would almost rip her heart out for him, she was about to go somewhere else but she already had the eyes of the employees on her and something like that would be taken as a sign of bad manners, she just stands there.

Hey Trish! Come on- an employee said, not liking the girl watching while they were talking and enjoying their break. The young woman only comes over to hear the gossip. Many say that those who work in that kind of business don't have rumors or jokes, nor do they have circus-worthy moments.

And that face?- They ask the brunette for not speaking much, as if she were saying big things or just didn't want to bother them with teenage drama.

Nothing, gentlemen... Nothing interesting - Trish answers with an almost lost look, she was just smoking while her mind had Jennifer smiling to look out of the corner of her eye at the green-eyed boy who, like her, had feelings of apathy and contempt but at the same time some weakness and pity for each other.

And that?- Raphael replies in a dry tone of voice, his arms crossed. His face reflected not only that he had more responsibilities than freedoms, but also the constant thought of losing his job over this nonsense, a nonsense that probably isn't that important.

No, really... There were just a lot of people, that's all- Trish replies, her cigarette slowly burning away. She's doing her best to tolerate the boy, but those eyes conveyed a different meaning. The other employees noticed the tension between the two, but they couldn't interfere in other people's business, especially those of teenagers.

The younger ones basically weren't tolerating each other, they were getting on each other's nerves, wanting to kill each other in case one of them breathes... Is this what hate and contempt look like? Both black-haired men, with those looks, had in their hearts whether one day they would speak clearly and close the cycle, Trish was getting a headache and discomfort that affected her when drawing while Raphael was getting cramps but it was because of anger and that "tolerance"

Night was coming and all that was left was to close the business.

Trish returns and sees that in the box there is still the shopping list that Jennifer gave her, she found it too cute the fact that it is written in pink ink, it has a scent of fresh strawberries and the sheet of paper has very tender motifs, something that made her remember her childhood so she decides to take it and save it in a notebook, one that only contained black and white drawings, the dark-haired young woman sighs just having something of that girl even though it is hard for her to confess or talk to her from woman to woman.

He couldn't distract himself from thinking about an imaginary romance and started calculating all the sales and orders. His hands were like robots as he wrote and calculated things with the calculator. The sound he made with each button resonated with the silence he needed to avoid a bad result. The boss of the business sees the girl and changes that face of being a serious leader with his workers, even if they are family members, to being that father of a family who strives for everything.

So Trish, how's everything going?- The brown-eyed man smiles at her but sees that she didn't even hear him, perplexed by how focused his daughter was.

A few more beads and that's it- Trish spoke, not even noticing her father was present or what was around her; it was that moment when it seemed like it wasn't her. Just one more bead and her hands stopped, feeling a slight cramp from the constant, repetitive motion.

Dad! Sorry, I didn't hear you... - The young girl with black hair feels sorry, especially for not hearing her father's voice.

Don't worry-  Raoul smiles at her and sits next to Trish. He looks at the accounts and compares them with the previous day's to see if sales are still good. The man takes a deep breath, indicating it's been a busy day. Suddenly, they hear the door open and see Aster arriving. The young woman still had that same smile and rebellious attitude, but her body was extremely tired.

How's everything going?- the two-toned girl greeted them with a mixture of joy and accumulated fatigue while snapping her fingers. Her father responded with a smile, while her younger sister gave him a thumbs-up and arranged the inventory sheets and accounts.

Mmmmm, looks like it was a good day at work- The black-and-white-haired girl approaches Trish to shake her hair and then hug her, making her lose her temper. For her part, the younger girl just grumbles; she doesn't like having her hair touched.

Stop it!- Trish complained, several of her curls already ruffled. Her father and sister only looked at each other so she wouldn't feel bad. She smiled as she brushed several of her messy locks back into place.

What are we going to do? Should we cook? Should we order something?- Aster was checking his phone while making suggestions to his father and sister. He probably wanted something quick since it was a tedious day. Trish and Raoul reviewed the accounts to take them to the filing cabinet and have everything safe and locked up. Having a thriving business is a blessing, but at the same time a curse in the area where they are.

Hey, I asked you something - Aster's voice sounded a little furious, the father was already about to give the floor while Trish just sat and took a deep breath, she felt her head and shoulders starting to hurt

Well... I think it's better to do something quick- The man with brown eyes sees Trish and Aster who were exhausted, one tried to be firm in all circumstances while the other had to rest as much as she could, only life can be a little rough.

For me, anything- The young girl with black hair said it while yawning, she already felt her head was about to explode, that her brain was liquefied from so much calculation, color combinations, artists and now that strange feeling she is developing for a girl

At the Carter house

Jennifer was in her room, writing in her diary what happened today, on her desk there were several pens with feathers, glitter, prints, stickers of cute characters and gossip magazines, while she wrote she sighed at each note, each phrase, what did not cross her mind was to make that black-haired girl blush

Trish... I wish you could... No, that doesn't sound right - The blonde girl was thinking and talking to herself about how she could describe her, she didn't know where to start, whether with her hair, those eyes... Maybe her love for flowers, she was blocked, so much so that she looked for another notebook to write down all the adjectives that could be attached to that girl.

Oh, that girl definitely has me down... - Jenny tried to lie down on her bed and look at the ceiling. Then she looked at her nightstand to carefully examine the ornaments on her night lamp, which reminded her a lot of Trish's drawings and that love of floral details. She searched for details and beauty to describe that young woman until a knock on the door interrupted Jennifer's thoughts.

Jenny! Come down, dinner's ready!- It was her mother, who, it was becoming unusual for her not to answer her calls. Vanessa opened the door and saw that her daughter was lost in thought, about her daily life, or perhaps writing something on her blog.

Ah! Sorry, mom, I didn't hear you - Jennifer sits up suddenly and smiles at her, she was a little embarrassed since she always respected her mother but a few minutes ago she was even arguing with her own soul.

Daughter, is something wrong? Something happened to you today?- The blonde, blue-eyed woman saw that her youngest daughter was absorbed in her thoughts. She didn't know why, much less if that reason had a name or figure. The mother approached and sat on the bed to comfort her, making her daughter forget her tension and smile at her.

Nothing, nothing bad has happened... - The young blonde hides a little that today, a Saturday, she was able to flirt with Trish even though she doesn't know how her mother and sister will take it or even worse, what the reaction of the brunette's relatives will be.

Come on, let's have dinner- The mother gives her a kiss on the forehead to lift her spirits, gets up to go to the dining room to wait for Jennifer.

Good - The daughter gets up and makes sure her diary is locked and stored in her desk drawer as well as her notebook of notes about what she wants to write and formulate sentences and prose.

The smell of roasted, well-seasoned meat puts her in a good mood, but what makes her happier is the fact that she discovers that this girl likes sweet words even when she acts rude, the bad girl of the story, the untamable one.

In the car with her father and sister on the way home, the teenager was almost falling asleep in the back seat, not realizing that she had her headphones on with her playlist on shuffle, while there were melodies that could transport her to a prairie, a city that is frozen in time with paintings and beautiful flowers decorating the entrances but everything is deformed when she hears a strident sound, a guttural voice that makes that paradise become a degenerate world making Trish wake up suddenly.

Shit! - Trish exclaimed after seeing that strange scene in her dream, she proceeded to take off her headphones to see which singer was on her list, the one with blue eyes releases a sigh to lean back in the seat again

Is everything okay?- Aster turns around and sees his younger sister, who was sweating cold, her heart almost coming out of her mouth, the dark-eyed girl holding back her laughter. The father of the two stops to see that the younger one was still regaining her composure.

Patricia, swettie - Raoul doesn't know how many times he's told us that the youngest has behaved strangely, he doesn't know if it's because of the transition from girl to teenager, because of their separation, or because of her artistic practices.

Yes, Dad - The young girl stands firm and tries to put on a smile, as if she were going to fix all the strange behaviors she had today.

... We'd better talk at home - Father and daughter only deigned to look at each other, for her part the older sister was suspecting something about Trish, she noticed from the day she forgot the bus stop that leaves her near her neighborhood

Or we can talk here before we get there- the black and white-haired girl answers, sensing something that the young brunette might be hiding or something she doesn't want to talk about. Raoul and Trish look at Aster as if her strange ideas or unorthodox practices were the solution.

Don't look at me like that! - The young brown-eyed woman settles back into the passenger seat, outraged that the only family members who support her had wordlessly given her a "NO" as an answer; her father and sister just shrugged.

Even on the way, the black-haired girl is still immersed in what happened this weekend, between the feelings of the past and the new ones that are about to blossom.

Chapter Text

On the night of that Saturday, after a bath and a change of clothes Trish was between headaches and her unexpressed feelings towards that girl, she sits on her bed sighing long and deep, while trying to empty her mind she feels someone open the door of her room and it was Aster, with her characteristic smile but without makeup and with her hair tied up, she had in her hands two cups with hot chocolate

Can I come in?- The young woman says as she enters her sister's room, who nods her head in agreement. Upon entering, she leaves the two cups on Trish's desk while she sits down.

Little sister, it's been a while since we last spoke, woman to woman- The girl with two-tone hair changes that smile for a more serious expression, it already seemed strange to her to the point of worrying that her sister, that baby that her parents presented to her and swore to be the best older sister, to be her guide even with all her faults and mistakes now has in front of her a teenager who seems delicate but not like the final porcelain.

But just now you told me EVERYTHING about your job - the black-haired girl said it reluctantly, almost annoyed that Aster came with those intentions, wanting to come with sermons, with life lessons that she knows she doesn't even practice.

Pfffff, that's because I want- The young woman's brown eyes become like those of a wild beast with a puppy, one of the strategies she uses with the blue eyes when she hides something or doesn't want to say it.

Buuuut... There's something that has me worried - Aster crosses his arms trying to guess what Trish is hiding

What?... If it's because of my arithmetic grades, I'm doing the best I can- The blue-eyed girl answers with a trembling voice, in an attempt to convince her older sister that there's nothing wrong with becoming a lost, crazy, lovesick woman.

Dad and I know that, that's not new, it's something else... Let's see, could it be a new project? Oh no... Or something bigger- The older sister began her ramblings with her peculiar sense of humor as if she were a theater actress

Aster! Please stop! - The youngest wanted him to stop with his dramatics, she knew that between Aster's jokes and her father's questions are the trigger for him to confess his actions and sins

Or do you already have a boyfriend?!, who's the lucky one? - The girl with black and white hair joked while taking one of the stuffed animals that was near her

The black-haired girl was downcast, covering her face with a pillow... She didn't want her secrets to be discovered.

Tell me... Is it Manuel? Or another boy? - Aster begins to ask with a playful tone of voice while playing with one of her white curls, believing that Trish has already overcome her ex-boyfriend and is finding new stars, opening paths to new suitors.

Aster! - Already leaving her pillow, Trish answers sharply and takes a deep breath

Oh excuse me Mrs. Chastity, I didn't know that bothered you- She felt something soft but aggressive and it was that the black-haired girl threw the pillow at her, the gray-haired girl was astonished by this retaliation and just stayed still with her eyes wider than usual

It's not that... It's complicated- The girl was already tired of continuing to play mentally with her sister, with her confidant and accomplice of many of her ideas and pranks of the past

The older sister stops and stops talking, hearing those words made her put her feet on the ground, remembering her moments of feverish adolescence that she only has memories of, that she had no help but she did have the strength to not let herself break, not let herself and her sister be hurt.

Look Trish, you're still at the stage to enjoy everything and not stagnate over a stupid fleeting love - Aster has her smile again, only softer, and speaks more calmly, as if she were the voice of reason when she is only a counselor with a harlequin complex

Aster, I... It's weird to explain, I feel like we shouldn't talk about it here- Trish felt a little embarrassed to want to explain what she felt today, that today Jennifer had spoken to her with kind words even though she was working. There was a slight red color on her cheeks just remembering her, remembering the words that came out of that girl's mouth.

The brown-eyed girl sees how her sister was feeling ashamed, ashamed that she was falling in love again, only she doesn't know with whom. Aster takes both cups and hands one to Trish; they were still warm from when they started talking and exchanging passive-aggressive messages.

We can go out tomorrow, since there's nothing to do- The older sister, while drinking her hot chocolate, was already planning to go out alone with her little sister, a moment where it will only be the two of them, without interruptions or intruders.

Seriously?! - The young woman is surprised. Since Aster started working and studying, they barely shared time together. They barely had time to talk at night before going to sleep or in the early hours of the morning.

Come on, we deserve it- Aster was happier to change her routine to share and search among Trish's hidden secrets that she doesn't dare to tell.

Sunday, in the morning 

After breakfast, the two sisters were more than ready for a girls-only outing. They said goodbye to their father and left the house. The sun and clear skies brightened the rough atmosphere of that grimboroung area. Between long walks and the sisters' laughter, they found a spot in a park full of trees, families playing with their little ones, and birds singing and flying, like floating flowers adorning the place. The pair found a tree whose leaves cast shadows on the grass, a place that seemed enchanting. Trish quickened her pace, signaling Aster to hurry up, something the two-toned girl took as a good sign.

Come on! - The black-haired girl says it with a happy tone of voice, normally she went to places like that to draw and practice with watercolors but this time accompanied she felt that happiness returned

Okay- The young brown-eyed woman sits on the grass, right where the shade provided by the tree is, she puts aside her backpack and takes out her phone and headphones while the younger one was just feeling a soft breeze before touching her artist bag.

It's been a while since we've been out, right? - Aster felt a strange feeling, a mixture of regret and disappointment just for the fact of being focused on herself, work and adult things but all that is replaced with a half smile

Last time wasn't the best but you know why - Trish said seriously, still having the fact of their breakup in her head

But look on the bright side, at least you're trying to forget him - She was more than hopeful that her younger sister would forget Raphael quickly, that she could see more candidates to win her heart.

Yeah... That- Trish says it while she was taking out her sketchbook and some pencils, she felt relieved that they think she's getting over her ex-boyfriend.

And since we're out of the house, you can tell me what's happening to you- Now the older sister takes matters into her own hands, trying to unravel all the girl's secrets and mysteries, which she wants to hide so much.

What?... - Trish's head clicked when she saw that Aster started to get serious, using his techniques to get truths out of her.

Come on Patricia Colletti, don't lie to me - The black and white haired girl's restlessness was incredible, wanting to find answers like a detective.

Aster!- The blue-eyed girl gets annoyed at how her sister's words become like magnifying glasses and needles.

The two sisters were already starting to argue, this time not over pranks or covering up a secret, but something more serious, something the younger one still finds hard to say, even to the person she trusts and listens to the most.

Tell me who the boy is - The young woman with two-tone hair looks with uncertainty and almost hoarse voice to scare the girl, to know who is the lucky or unlucky one

.... I don't think it's a boy - Trish jokes about what Aster is investigating, that she could be in love with another boy

Don't tell me it's... Someone older? - The older sister is stunned, but that was more than a product of her assumptions.

Hey no!... And if in reality... It's that... - The blue-eyed girl's tongue was tied, she felt her hands start to sweat from nerves and her heart started to beat irregularly again, as that light red blush on her face began to intensify. The older sister just stared at every sign that gave as a diagnosis that this young girl was in love.

It's a girl... Right? - Aster thinks he was right about Trish's half-hearted words, that everything he's feeling, that his hidden feelings were for a girl.

There was only a deathly silence under the tree, where the two sisters who planned to go out and relax a bit from the routine and noise of the area transformed into a moment of sisterly tension.

Changing the subject... I don't know... - Trish looks around until she sees a figure with golden hair that she, only she, recognizes to be even more embarrassed without being able to tell her older sister what she sees and feels for her.

Ujum... Yes, let's change the subject - Aster becomes serious but to hide it he smiles at his sister and just like she watches Jennifer from afar to understand Trish's psyche, he didn't know what to do or what advice to give her in that situation, he just approaches and hugs her, caressing that silky and curly dark mane.

I don't know, it's weird... -Feeling something for that blonde is too strange for Trish, falling in love with someone again after breaking up with someone was like a sin for her. She let Aster continue caressing her hair, she no longer cared if her curls lost their shape or were tangled.

Mia Sorella, nothing is strange in this life.- The young woman with black and white hair continued looking for ways to comfort the brunette, continuing to hug her, still holding on to the promise that she would be her guide. For her part, Trish clung to that hug. She needed not only calm for her soul but also understanding, for someone to listen to her, even if it was silly.

Leaves were falling from that tree, moved by that gentle breeze older than time. A shadow approached them—it was that blonde girl wearing one of those summer dresses, the kind with lace.

Hello Trish- Jennifer approaches, very cheerful, and at the same time, she is surprised to find that she is not alone. She almost steps back when she sees the woman with black and white hair, like yin and yin, good and evil in one. That woman looks at Jennifer with the eyes of an analyst and then sees Trish, who is trying to be strong, to not let shyness knock her down.

Nice to meet you- Aster speaks with that cheerful tone, similar to that of a harlequin, it was the first time he met someone who was not in Trish's circle of friends or was not there, he did not want that young girl to be actually the girl he likes.

.... Also a pleasure... - Jennifer is almost scared by Aster's attitude, how someone she doesn't know smiles at her and talks to her as if they were acquaintances, without imagining that it would be that woman

Don't be afraid of me, I don't bite - The gray-haired woman did nothing but give him the courtesy of meeting her, of seeing who she is.

Jennifer, she's my sister, Aster- Trish, holding back her nerves, introduces Jenny to that woman with peculiar hair, to avoid new spectacles from the older sister

Astartea Colletti, Aster for her friends - She says it without hesitation, without shame, without that concept harming or damaging her.

What a name so... So unique - Jennifer almost didn't go near people with alternative style looks, all because of the prejudice that her sister Mary and her mother have towards them but for her those people were almost like beings from works of art, from another world that she wants to decipher.

Hahahahaha, you can join if you want- Aster would start to like that girl, he noticed that she has a good heart, someone who wants the best for everyone without knowing that they could hurt her without her realizing it.

Aster! - The black-haired girl wanted to be swallowed by the earth, her cheeks were still red.

Perfect! - The brown-eyed blonde sits next to Trish, adjusting her dress to place her bag that matched her shoes in front of her. She couldn't erase that soft smile for being with that girl, she couldn't express much having a family member accompanying that brunette even though that young woman wasn't against it.

Trish didn't know what to do anymore, she felt cornered, between a rock and a hard place just for not knowing how to confess or not talk about her feelings, now it wasn't about whether she liked that young girl, n

ow it was about whether she was going to make fun of her.

Chapter Text

Trish, Aster, and Jennifer were laughing and joking around. The young brunette, despite her quirks, has calmed down enough to use a drawing pencil. Aster shared words with Jennifer out of curiosity, hoping to find out if she's the ideal girl for his sister.

Hey, I love your hair - The blonde girl is enraptured by Aster's hair. She almost always saw girls and women with Californian highlights, balayages, and hair dyes ranging from blonde to copper, but meeting someone with their hair divided into two colors, black on the left side and white on the right side was something new, almost like a gold mine.

Thank you, many of these gray hairs are natural- The woman with two-tone hair felt flattered, she combed her bangs back showing the roots of her hair, showing that several are gray hairs, the same ones that make her feel proud.

Gray hair?! - Jennifer, impressed, didn't believe that's what it was; she thought gray hair was more typical of older adults, of the elderly.

I've had them for as long as I can remember, it was only recently that she decided to fix her hair - Trish said while sketching in her sketchbook.

She looks like Cruella- Without even mincing her words, Jennifer already believes she's ruined her. She's already preparing for her sentence, but all she receives is laughter from Aster and Trish. The two sisters wipe away tears, especially the eldest, who has already grown accustomed to the comparisons and unpleasant words about her.

Yes, yes, everyone tells me that- Aster found it a little unbearable to hear that comment, whether it was at home or with her circle of friends, yes, but she couldn't be pedantic in front of Jennifer, nor could she come with her bitter jokes. She stops looking at the blonde to observe what her younger sister is doing, who takes up her notebook again and continues drawing, concentrating on vanishing points and perspective.

Jennifer, for her part, leans a little closer to Trish, with a clinical eye looking at the lines, the details, the blue-eyed girl's gaze, which was only focused and had the sound of the pencil making as she drew as music; when she was about to raise her gaze towards the park, she found nothing but that one. She was almost about to hit her head on the thick tree trunk from the fright she got when she saw Jennifer. She wasn't upset nor did she emit a malicious aura; that sweet smile and those brown eyes gave her that explosion of feelings in her heart.

Is everything okay?!- The blonde is scared to see that the artist she loves so much was almost going to hit her head, her head was making a drama.

Yes... Sorry, I didn't know you were there- The brunette came back to her senses, a little blushed from just being scared by something so beautiful, in her mind she tries to come up with something so that Aster wouldn't realize that she was lost, that she fell in love again. While the young women were mending things, Aster remained observing, like a photographer watching the activities of wild animals.

Yeah, at least you didn't hit her- The black and white haired girl was holding back her laughter. Seeing Trish in that situation was funny just because she was near someone she liked. Jennifer and Trish just stared at Aster, who still wanted to laugh. The dark-haired girl rolled her eyes and continued drawing.

Hey Aster, you know Trish and some guys are going to participate in an art exhibition? - The one with the brown eyes breaks the news, something the young artist should have said.

What? Really?! - Startled the young woman who was barely processing the information

Why hasn't she told us?! - With the surprise on top of Aster, it seems an injustice that his younger sister hasn't told him about this matter.

Well... I was busy - Trish had managed to create the perfect excuse to say why she didn't give the good news, believing that this way she could divert attention and the possible shouting that her older sister would do for every good thing that happens to her.

That's worth celebrating- Aster and Jennifer agreed to celebrate this achievement, although small, but one that could boost the blue-eyed girl as an artist. The brown-eyed girl placed her hands on Trish's shoulders, feeling those warm hands decorated with light pink nails was like a shot of dopamine. The black-haired girl had become prey to something strange, a heat that emanated from her chest just by feeling those hands, for her part, the blonde didn't know how to describe what she was doing.

I know a place - Jennifer separates from the light blue-eyed woman, removing her hands. They were still warm, but with that subtle touch, every fiber of her being almost shudders.

Hmm... Since they insist, let's do it- Trish closes her notebook and puts away her pencils, it was two against one, she couldn't be against them and pretend to give in to them with a sly smile.

Let's go, I'll pay for everything- Aster takes Jennifer's suggestion and Trish's approval as a good sign and in turn to scrutinize what she is thinking about her younger sister, the three of them get up from the tree that gave them shade and a small moment of tension and happiness, along the way the girls have been talking about cartoons from their childhood, childhood memories and the occasional article from fashion magazines, Trish for her part only listened and responded assertively to a few things, for her part she talked about her favorite painters and the crazy ideas of a young artist.

Seriously?!- Jennifer still listening to what they were talking about is surprised

Yes... Suddenly I confused the water from the watercolors with juice - Trish didn't know whether to laugh or lower her face in embarrassment, wondering if that girl was going to call her an idiot.

The one with black and white hair and the blonde laughed out loud at a mistake made by the black-haired girl when she began to delve into the world of drawing and painting.

At least it wasn't turpentine - Aster bursts out laughing, tears almost coming out of his eyes at these small misfortunes

What is that? - It was the first time Jennifer heard that word

Uh, oil paint thinner - the brunette ends up responding with some disgust, a disgust since she used oil paint for the first time.

Oh... We're almost there!- Jennifer could already see the place from a few blocks away, which was nothing more than a bakery/coffee bar, one frequented by young people who love to spend their free time, couples in love, and disaffected souls. Aster takes the opportunity to take a photo with his cell phone of the distance between where they are and the place the blonde is pointing at.

Walking two blocks, they arrive at the place, a place with vintage decor and style. Inside, there are paintings by impressionist and hyperrealist painters, counters with desserts, cakes, cookies, and artisan breads, collectibles, and lights that match the space. Jazz music and the aroma of good pastries further decorated the place and were a love letter to the diners' senses.

Wow, you have good taste, girl- The woman with black and white hair looks at the cafe in great detail. She could almost feel like she was in Italy or France with the image the place conveys to her.

Mom and I often come here, sometimes my sister but... Very rarely- Jenny was barely continuing her words until her eyes focused on Trish who was standing face to face with some paintings.

You can find a table, I'll go with Trish to see what's there- The blonde walks slowly towards the brunette girl, Aster nods to see a table where the three of them can eat quietly with the characteristic atmosphere. Jennifer arrives where Trish who was still amazed, just stands by her right side and sees that the blue-eyed girl's right hand was free, only adorned with some bracelets and a bow for her hair, she was about to take her hand until she turned her gaze to the paintings.

They are... - The brown-eyed woman felt like her heart was emanating a strange sensation, as if a flower was about to open its petals when she saw those paintings next to that girl.

They are not beautiful - The girl with blue eyes was still looking at the paintings, she changed her gaze and saw Jennifer, those penetrating blue eyes had another expression, of a disturbing calm compared to brown eyes that hid many things but that betrayed the heart.

Whose are they? - Jennifer was amazed by the paintings but didn't know whose painting it was and who the author was.

Some are by Manet... And this one here is by Kirsch - Trish points with the fingers of her right hand at the paintings hanging on the wall, there was one that almost made Jennifer lose her mind.

Wow, you must know a lot about art-The blonde in the summer dress is left speechless with the names of those beings.

Mmmmmmm, not much, just my favorite artists - Trish was not an art teacher nor a graduate but what she knows and does was enough

Well, let's go see what's good- The two young women went to the counters and asked what was on the menu and what the Sunday specialty was.

With the two girls watching the desserts, Aster kept watch at the table he chose, making mental notes about whether that girl would be his future sister-in-law, but he returns to the present when he sees Trish and Jennifer arrive.

It seems they were fascinated - Aster, already seated, sees that both girls were connecting

More like Trish than me, I didn't notice the paintings until she told me about them- Jennifer sat still in that happy mood. She hoped Trish would sit next to her so they could continue this conversation about artists she didn't know, but it was better to get to know them, especially with someone you like.

One of the waiters approached them. His uniform was reminiscent of bartenders of bygone days, with its neatly ironed shirt and trousers, hat, and suspenders. The young gentleman was ready to take their orders.

A lemon pie, please - Trish has a penchant for citrus flavors, anything orange, grapefruit, lemon, passion fruit, lulo or cherry will always be on her palate, as well as pineapple and peach.

A strawberry tart wouldn't be bad - Something worthy of a pretty girl like Jennifer, strawberries are her fascination, her weak point before fashion and writing.

They have tiramisu - Because of her personality, Aster prefers to combine coffee, chocolate and liquors and that delicacy was her favorite, that fusion that makes her go crazy and sigh, she had high expectations to be able to try one in that place.

No, I'm sorry, miss- The waiter apologizes. They didn't have tiramisu out of so many options, shattering the illusion of that girl with two-tone hair.

Mmmmmm, I think I'll order chocolate cake- A disappointing tone comes out of Aster's mouth, it was not enough for him to order a classic that, although he also liked it, was not like his favorite dessert.

Anything else, ladies? - The waiter was waiting for another order, maybe coffee or a glass of water

Not for the moment - The oldest of the group tells him with her hand that they didn't want any more.

Trish and Jennifer see Aster to get a smile after being disappointed.

What is a tiramisu? - Jennifer was curious.

An Italian dessert, a pretty good one I'll tell you- Aster's response was almost theatrical, she was the only one who could say that it is the delicacy of the gods, Trish just stares at her older sister giggling.

Ah, sorella, sorella... mia sorella- The younger sister joked about Aster's theatricality, she thought since they were younger that he could participate in it because of his way of expressing himself with people, his jokes and way of acting in embarrassing, stressful and depressing situations.

I didn't know you spoke Italian- The blonde was surprised again by these two sisters, it reminded her a lot of when Mary and she were younger, especially when Mary was a teenager.

Just a little, the basics - Trish looks to the side, slightly dodging the blonde's words that weren't even a compliment

The same waiter arrives with a tray with your orders, he puts them on the table

Thank you very much - said the three young ladies.

Mangiare- Aster exclaimed happily, the blonde is perplexed by that word

"To eat," Trish replied, "in Italian, I mean," as Jenny tried the lemon pie- Its flavor was like a trip to another world. Aster was enjoying every bite of her pie until she stopped to start asking her questions.

Are they friends? Right? - About to smile sideways, Aster evilly tries to decipher every sign of love.

We barely know each other- The young women responded suddenly with their hands making the table rattle, Jennifer could barely contain her insinuations while Trish hid even what was not a secret.

Mmmmmm... Not much time, yes- A small moment of pressure was presented without resorting to shouting and arguments, few words and foolish questions were the only thing the black-haired girl's older sister had to use as weapons.

Of course, we only have days- While making eye contact with Aster with a slightly nervous laugh, Jennifer was more than surprised by that woman's way of acting. It was very easy for these two to talk without so much hindrance, Trish kept seeing how these two, even barely knowing each other, in hours they already got along well, was it perhaps a good omen? Or the fantasy that her relatives understood her?

Hey Trish! Why are you so quiet? - The blonde jokes at her silence, but it was more because she was enjoying that foot

Who? Me? Nothing, all I can say is this pie is delicious.

I see your sister is a woman of few words - Jennifer releases a giggle, something she found charming

Yes, she likes to play the mysterious when she's worse than a rabbit—the two-toned woman said before taking another bite of chocolate cake. Her younger sister looks at her disdainfully, not liking being compared to an animal.

Now, leaving aside the jokes, you already know what you're going to exhibit, what you're going to do, where the exhibition will be - Aster would pester his sister with more questions.

I don't know- The black-haired girl's head was nothing but fog, she didn't know how to respond without making it sound like she was disrespecting him.

It will be in the historic center as far as we know - Jennifer answers for her, still eager to see what she will do to impress new viewers

In the historic center?! - The older sister is stunned. Almost always, the exhibitions she's seen have been outdoors or places invaded by graffiti and gang fights.

What I'm worried about is whether I'll be able to surprise them all, you know, a place like this seems to be unaware of chaos or the emergence of new artists.

You say that, who knows if they'll buy a painting from you? - Aster's brown eyes began to shine, knowing that it would not only be an opportunity to see something different from the industrial area, but also that it would be a big step for Trish as an emerging artist.

I love what Aster says. Maybe they'll be happy to see new talent- Jennifer, still feeling positive, was still charming. Amidst all the yelling, Trish sighs, signaling that she'll agree with them; she hasn't heard that kind of talk in a while.

You must start tonight - The woman with the black and white mane pointed at her sister with the spoon, as a reminder of what the young woman must do before procrastinating.

What?! - The black-haired girl exclaims about that suggestion

Don't you think it's too soon?- Jennifer, still having the strawberries on her plate, is surprised.

Artists don't rest, look at me, those dark circles aren't just a product of coffee - Aster points out those dark circles mixed with black eyeliner, the result of many things and decisions.

If you say so—Jennifer was already finishing her tart. She looked to the left side of the restaurant and saw the street filled with pedestrians, cars, and bicycles moving by. The three young women had agreed on one thing: to finish their desserts so the older sister would pay for everything. Jennifer was happy to share with those two.

See you tomorrow - The blonde, still happy to say goodbye to Trish

See you tomorrow... - The black-haired girl makes a timid movement with her right hand, in an attempt to say goodbye.

See you later- Aster says goodbye to Jennifer, he was more than happy to meet that person his younger sister doesn't want to talk to him about.

Taking separate routes, they disappeared from sight. The Colletti sisters walked through the bustling cyclists, couples walking (some happy, some disappointed), drunks on street corners, and stray animals looking for something to eat. Aster opened a pack of cigarettes and gave one to Trish while she lit her lighter.

Mmmmm, I see you have good taste- The young woman while smoking analyzes Trish again, she didn't need to do great things to know the truth, the unexpected truth.

Stop it, Aster- Since her sister saw that Jennifer left and brought up the subject again, she started coughing with cigarette smoke. The black-haired girl frowned angrily, asking Aster to stop with his jokes.

Oh come on, those trembling hands, cold sweats and turning red as a tomato don't seem to be an indication of being well- The older sister starts to mock, she laughs between her teeth remembering the few but sufficient signs that the blue-eyed girl is in love.

...You caught me red-handed - Trish looks to the side embarrassed, she could no longer hide anything from Aster.

Do you like her? Have you tried to confess your feelings to her or has she already made the first move? - The woman with white and black hair smiles sideways while putting her hand on Trish's shoulders.

... Still nothing... I'm afraid that he's teasing me or that it's just a game - She says it with her head down, the brunette was embarrassed to confess what she feels to Jennifer

And why don't you start off as friends, or best friends? Or maybe even friends with benefits? - With that ear-to-ear grin, Aster raised one of her eyebrows, unaware that her proposals were anything but satisfactory and practical.

What?! Aster, are you crazy? - The brunette already smelled a bad idea, she doesn't even know whether to make the first move or the girl, that blonde who started to develop strange feelings towards that young girl

If they love each other so much, it's better to start little by little- She ran out of options and it was his last attempt to give Trish some good advice. Aster's cigarette burned itself waiting for an answer or at least a correct answer.

Well... I'll take your advice - The brunette decides to follow her older sister's last piece of advice, still not knowing if it will be the best thing for her and the girl she likes.

The two sisters continued their journey amidst ideas, cigarette smoke, and an exhibition just around the corner. Aster was more than happy, knowing she was doing her part as a sister.