the romantic

Antonella: Really? Well, that's surprising or I'm just a harsh critic.

Bea: I think you’re a harsh critic, babe. Most private schools offer scholarships.

Antonella: normal people cannot afford that school lmao. elite normal people maybe?

Bea: It does offer scholarships, too.

Bea: That’s great! I know some people who send their kids there. Is it IKEA? Or from a fancy furniture store?

Antonella: Oh yeah? Are they like state officials or something? I got a few things from IKEA and some from a fancier place.

Bea: Haha absolutely not. They’re just normal people. Furniture shopping can be fun.

Text📲Antonella

Antonella: Hey. Not bad. I found a place finally. Not too far from you actually. You know that big richie rich kids school? I'm like a couple of blocks from there. I started ordering furniture so I'm having fun with that.

Bea: That’s great! I know some people who send their kids there. Is it IKEA? Or from a fancy furniture store?

"Alright." Antonella figured if she made time with the blonde, she might catch the culprit behind her vehicle issues. If not, at least she got tea with a stranger out of. "Bea. I like Beatrice too. Very old Espana." She grinned and held out her hand to shake Bea's. "I'm Antonella. I'm pretty new to the bay. I'm here on business. Kind of. Trying to scope out the energy before I decide if moving out here is worth it. I'm from LA though. Ever been?" She knew the school her brother taught at was nearby and that it wouldn't be too hard to find him but Antonella was going to take her time in doing so. She walked up the hill with Beatrice and when they arrived at the shop, she opened the door. "so, what are your recs?"

"Pffttt stop. That's you." Frankie winked at their friend. "But thanks, Bea. You're so sweet." They listened to Bea with a smile. "Aw no. Good thing didn't look in your direction then because I would have been more of a mess. I'm so glad you were here beside us and I loved that everyone got the chance to wear the colors that fit them best. You look so good!"

"And that's why I went for the big chop. I think it looks cute. Bold move days before the wedding but I figured I'd surprise you all." Frankie fluffed their hair with a giant smile. "Are you having fun? Did you hear Aug's vows? I cried so hard."

Oh no. That's true from what I've seen and heard. Babies certainly don't fix anything. I don't think I've asked before but are you and your brother close?

I'm closer to him than anyone else in my family. He's really supportive. I wish I saw him more. He went to school in New York and decided to stay there.

Thanks! Haha yeah, kid was wiped out by the end of the day and slept like a log so I know he had a good time.

That's the best! I love when it's obvious someone had a good time!

Antonella stared at the dent. It annoyed her for many reasons. This was her father's car given to her. She didn't come from money but her father had made sure he did everything he could to improve their status, to gain some respect. It wasn't just a car, it was a way to show people she wasn't some trash and the person in this Jaguar seemed to not care about making her feel like trash. Antonella snapped out of her thoughts when the blonde spoke again and looked up at her. She looked down at her platform combat boots and up the hill. Usually she'd shut this shit down as quickly as it started but Antonella liked blondes especially ones that seemed too nice for their own good. "Wait, are you recommending this tea place or are you asking me to join you for tea?" She grinned and removed her sunglasses, tucking them into her jean jacket pocket. I wouldn't climb that hill for tea for a party of one. That's why I'm asking." She locked her car with her key fob. "But I'd do it for two."

"Oh," Bea said and quickly looked like a deer caught in the headlights with her big doe eyes. God, that was smooth, she thought to herself. "I could go for some tea. Maybe a scone or a crumpet to go along with it," she grinned at the brunette. Maybe she was falling into the trap of her type once again, but this didn't have to be anything more than tea. Didn't have to be a date or lead to anything. Just tea. Just tea and a conversation with an incredibly beautiful woman. "Well, the hill isn't getting any less steep with us standing here," she said and took a couple of steps up as she put her phone back in her purse and zipped it up. "I don't think I properly introduced myself. I'm Bea. Well, Beatrice, but I prefer Bea."