SLIDE AWAY

He smiled as the other matched his ‘interesting’ fact. Tyson appreciated it. “No worries, even if you were saying me talking to you was a shit show, I wouldn’t be offended. Strangers randomly spouting useless knowledge can be annoying. I mean, to normal people. I live for useless facts.” Tyson lived for curiosity. There was always a need to know something and feed that hunger. He never tired of reading about random topics or hearing things that people knew. 

His eyes scanned over the other, taking in her posturing and getting a general sense of they’re vibes. Something about her was familiar but Tyson couldn’t place it. They must’ve just had one of those faces that was similar to someone else that he had known. Or they must’ve run into each other on the island at some point. “I feel like I did know that, about Shakespeare. Or if I didn’t that’s just one of those facts that when you hear it you’re like ‘ah, yeah. that just makes sense’, you know? In that same vein though, did you know the name Madison didn’t become a thing until like the 80′s? Well I mean for a girl at least. Actually, Tom Hanks made the name popular. It was from this movie called Splash where the mermaid character takes the name Madison from Madison Avenue. But before that, a male name. Some of Matthew or something.” 

The feeling of knowing the other kept running through his mind, to the point where it was starting to annoy him. Tyson took a long sip of his ice coffee, eyes still taking her in. “Have I met you before? Something about your face is registering familiar to me and I can’t place it. I can’t tell if we’ve met in Catalina before or like on mainland California at like some afterparty or something. Or maybe I don’t know you at all and my brain’s wrong. Who’s to say.”

♚

Gaiety settles over their features at once, letting what they intended to accomplish this afternoon and a specific visit to Ventura fall onto the backburner as Cleo enjoys the conversation unfolding amongst them now. If this was a part of the universe’s plans to let her relax, especially with how intense the last few weeks have been for their upcoming business launch, then so be it. With a soft chuckle, the platinum-dyed woman shakes her head. “Not that I mind strangers spouting useless knowledge,” she correctly lightly rather than its stern approach Cleo usually takes, “Unless it’s something out there, idiotic like why I shouldn’t allow my mind to be corrupt by reality television, then I immediately tune out because one, it’s my way of self-care watching grown women fight each other and two, mindless activities are necessary to rejuvenate.”

With words liquidating in the air, the brief intermission, and point free of explaining their guilty self-care hours, the cup of balmy earl grey tea finds itself near her petals for the first time since sitting down. Others find their fuel in coffee, whereas Cleo prefers tea because whether people, believe it or not, there’s more caffeine in tea than coffee itself  ─ espresso included. “Definitely one of those ah-ha moments,” Songbird falsetto agrees effortlessly after a moment, the cup returning itself to the saucer. A gentle smile finds her mouth corners, another fact entering into the conversation that’s erupting between the pair of unknown faces. At least, from her azure gaze and brief recollection, she can’t pinpoint if they ever interacted before, especially since she has a good memory of remembering faces and names due to all of the people. “There’s no point in denying the power of Tom Hanks, yeah?” Then, questioning with a laugh, an inquisitive brow shots toward him, “But yeah, I heard that before, in one of those guilty ten facts you didn’t know about Tom Hanks YouTube videos.” Because yes, they roam carelessly online too.

However, before anything else, the other punctures a question on her familiarity. Rather than it astounding them and causing features to widen as they got caught, her petals press into a fine line as she shifts in the seat once more. “Potentially.” Jocularly response, allowing a moment before helping him piece the potential of where he’s seen her. “I was a former reality television star, Saint Catalina; hence my guilty pleasure is watching other idiots on television.” A pause, top line of teeth nibbling on their lower petal, “But now I’m a business owner, in which I have some wine in the local stores or I don’t know, maybe you used one of my unisex fragrances?”

Her sunny disposition often hovered between the lies of realism and facade; to many, that was the Eleanor Hirsch they all knew of, known for her accolades and sometimes unluckily, the tabloid articles her name seemed to be caught up in. Although the brunette became friends with Cleo long before the spotlights found its way to the pair; the rare few people that Ellie allowed herself to ooze with genuineness whenever she was in their presence. It was as easy as breathing in fresh air, as time drifted by, whenever their paths aligned with one another again, it felt like a day hadn’t passed by between them. She was often curious how her friend managed to deal with the cameras following them around constantly, as she only found herself hiding from them whenever they were positioned in hidden places caught by no other than those paparazzis. “Heckle me?” Dramatically, a gasp slipped from her lips. “You would never. You’ll never faze me anywhere, my dear friend Oscar would prove so.” Adding to her flare, she flipped her brown locks over her shoulders. Knowing Cleo was no stranger to her jests, she was not afraid to turn the theatrics up furthermore. It’d always been easier this way, the jokes and jabs, than the stray towards serious matters that her family often avoided with all cost. Perhaps that was where she adopted the same traits from. With her father gone, the peacemaker of the family was left vacant, with everyone else too afraid to bear on such responsibility. Before her mind could spiral any further. Her grin merely widened, brows raised as if in challenge. “You’ll have to book something out of my busy schedule, Cleo. That sounds a lot like a threat, you’re lucky that I don’t take you that seriously.” She joked. 

As her hazel hues surveyed the samples before her, Ellie couldn’t help but wonder if a day in the winery consisted something such as this. Sure, perhaps it would be less glamorous that the efforts put into tonight’s meeting, as she could only assume that Cleo Halliwell didn’t just do this for simply everyone. But the youngest Hirsch never paid much attention to the family’s business, as those responsibilities fell to her brother instead. Even when her father was alive, they would rarely talk business, nor did she ask. Now, she wondered if she cared more about this matter. If she should spend more time with her mother at the winery too. But tonight wasn’t about her family’s collection of wine, but rather Cleo’s. With that, her focus returned to the present. “I don’t know,” Her lips pursed, contemplating the thought for a moment. “I think I need to witness this in person. My agent can be such a hardass, you know? If he knew I was helping you with this, he probably demanded to be here too. You don’t want that, because that would just ruin the night for the both of us.” That was nothing but the truth, because there was a part of her that was certain she could never befriend her current agent. The man meant all business and nothing else, and the brunette would rather not hang out with him more than she needed to already. “Hiding from the paps, or my work schedule, it’s always one of the two. Why, what does hiding mean to you?” Her brows rose with curiosity, before laughter bubbled over her lips at their reaction as Cleo tasted the sample, before coughing slightly at the aftertaste all the same. “I mean, surely that would do well with the millennials. We all remember the cinnamon challenge, right? But I think, with all the competition out there, you need to be different. So fruity with a bit of a kick, is what we’re looking for? A little cinnamon couldn’t hurt, but this was just overkill.” 

♚

In all of the years Cleo and Ellie spent together, long before their siblings found enchantment in each other, the times spent have always been authentic and one the platinum blonde never took for granted. Always matching each other’s jocular remarks effortlessly, even getting in trouble together, people could’ve either thought they were insane or plain childish ─ though everyone needs someone to cause the mile-high walls to crumble down. Not like Cleo has a mile-high wall because they regularly share things up front, but Ellie is that person to them for a plethora of reasons. Someone they can catch up with, regardless of how long it’s been, and not miss a single beat. Plus, it’s a blessing that Cleo, out of the few people in this constructed world, gets a chance to see the young actress in a light that isn’t false attitudes to please others to land their next gig. Hoping and wishes nothing more for this dynamic to proceed because there’s that growing suspicion they’ll end up being siblings-in-law in due time. “Boooo!” Single statement comes out as Cleo blows a lengthy raspberry, keeping her tongue stuck out at the other for another moment longer. “Don’t threaten me with the Oscar, Eleanor. It’s not cute and reminds me of the time I went around to every stranger and told them all of the designers I was wearing. One person told me I was poor for flexing, so take this lesson from me, don’t flex because we’re not poor.” Escaping in an educational falsetto with a pang of humor impacting a dancing sight upon her brows. Immediate in suit, the boom of a belly-laugh and bridge of their nose scrunching, always admiring the flare for theatrics the other brings to their time spent together. They could never understand how people fail to allow themselves to have fun or look like a fool ─ almost making it a concern that should be investigated but not tonight because the blonde is once again trying to prove the other wrong. “Fine, my assistant will contact your assistant to make it an official meeting at the office,” she announces as lips purse, head tilting to the side, “Happy now?”

Theatrics aside and the taste of cinnamon gripping their tastebuds, additional few notes get jot down on Cleo’s notecard with the ingredients ─ not horrible within the first sip, a walk down memory lane to the cinnamon challenge, but seems to be a bitter aftertaste residing. Though, there happened to be at least another sip or two notable of testing before needing to refresh her palette to move on to the next flavor, which is immediate one hundred and eighty, from the spice combination they’re currently indulging in. Lifting the crystalline, laced substance, she withholds any sort of reaction from erupting as Ellie talks about her manager in the hypothetical question Cleo asked, out of pure and utter curiosity, of course. “Okay,” she hums disapprovingly, gesturing an index finger to wag away this option after the second sip before jumping into their jests. “Well, he seems like a buzzkill and has a stick so far up his ass that someone needs to rip him a new one.” And by someone, her. “If you ever want to liven up a meeting, I charge nothing to show up unannounced and make the hairs on the back of his neck stick up,” she says casually with a shrug. Silence sits amongst them for a moment before proceeding with their testing to bring forward the next option they’re testing, a watermelon and pineapple sangria. A part of Cleo wishes they bite their tongue then and there, given that they enough something about the Flynn situation, so in the attempted subtly, they cock a brow, “Hiding could be those, yes” she pauses, choosing words carefully. “It can also be hiding from someone.” Who, for that matter? They don’t say, but it could be enough guidance for the other to pinpoint what she’s attempting to mean now. Rather than ruining the rhythm of their back-and-forth they’ve been on, the possession of the latest flavor is in her hands with new glass in front of Ellie, and a piece of cheese cut popping in their mouth. “Different than the cinnamon challenge sangria, we have two of my favorite trips combined into what I hope is a heavenly sipping experience.”

On the outside, Evelyn Halliwell spent all her energy trying to craft the picture-perfect image of their family for the island to see; although that was no easy feat, not when Ava spent her time causing mischief, perhaps a way to get her father’s attention when she was a teenager. Simple to say, there was never a dull moment coursing through their household, both for the better and worse, because the brunette knew she neglected some of her duties as their eldest sister — something which she was trying to make amends of right now, on top of all the unresolved issues in her life. Maybe focusing on others formed great distractions, until everything came back in a full circle and hit her with full force. Slowly, but surely though, she was learning that over the past year. To not bear on so much on her own and share her burdens with others — even when there were days her stubbornness took over in strides, trying to shut down the new habits that she was trying to instil in her life. It was a saddening truth that there weren’t many photos of the four sisters together in comparison to the ones taken of her and Cleo. The reality being that her and the blonde before her had always been closer because her sister understood most of her life’s decisions, whether they were in agreement to them or not. “Sure, but do you mind me making a copy of these too? I barely remember having these taken, so it’ll be nice having this displayed somewhere in the new place as well.” As the topic shifted, her gaze softened at her sister’s words. “You’re only saying that because you’re my sister,” She started, before retaining somewhat seriousness as she continued. “But thank you. I mean that — even if the idea of being happy still takes some getting used to sometimes.” She reached over, giving her hand a gentle squeeze before a chuckle fell from her lips. “Oh, there will be, I have no doubt there’s someone out there for you. It’s only their loss if they can’t.”

Then it was just times like this, chattering about mindless topic, not a single worry in their minds — even just momentarily, that Ava missed the most. There’d been a good part of the last decade that lacked such light in her life, and while it would be a while before those memories became background noises in the back of her mind, the light at the end of the tunnel was there. She could see it now. “Better than having some boring old interests, if you’re asking me.” She answered with a shrug, a grin stretched upon her features nonetheless. “See — you’re already doing better than me, you have two back up plans. But are you sure you’d want to wrangle Hollywood’s finest?” Her brows rose in question. Not that she doubted her sister’s ability in such career, but rather the potential headache that may arose with the profession. Nevertheless, these were all hypotheticals, as there was no indication that Cleo’s business would ensue in failure. The blonde would not allow that to happen anyway. Although the conversation was all in jest, she couldn’t help but perk up slightly at the plan that conjured up in ridding evidence of her pageant days. “Both of them? Good luck with that, I hear they can hardly stand to be in the same room as each other right now. Did I mention that I’m probably in Evelyn’s bad books right now?” Rolling her eyes at her own words, but the brunette knew she was partially at fault for that, considering she kept the knowledge of their father’s infidelity to herself. Then, Cleo’s latter comment pulled her out of her reverie, shock evident across her features. “Cleo Halliwell and lowkey? Now, this just made the release party even more interesting. Are you sure you want to invite our parents to this? I’m sure nothing extra isn’t part of this family’s vocabulary, like, at all.”

♚

All Cleo can think about is how far Ava has come in the past year: from dealing with Nathan as that chapter closed entirely, to rekindling a relationship with the best-suited man for her, yet lastly, to realizing that it’s okay to lean on other’s when it’s most needed ─ has caused a faint, yet boosting upturned expression settling upon their features now. Typically, the platinum blonde would mask any sight of gentleness trashing upon their features with a downcast and hands remaining busy as they stifled through another box. But this time, in the longest time, the platinum blonde looks past the way they purposefully come off to others by letting a cascade of emotions begin to overtake. They’ve never been the emotional type, or on the edge of wailing, but this moment is slowly tugging on her heartstrings, as a field of sentimental brings this walk down memory lane. She feels like it’s something to take in, rather than rapidly getting it done just for it to be over it. It will be one of their last interactions in this space without any eavesdropping. Now they’ll have to make sure they watch what they’ll say ─ ha, just kidding, hell would have to freeze over then. So for one last interlude and an unfamiliar gaze upon her colored rims, Cleo’s eyes scan the surroundings before diverting to the pictures in question. “Of course,” they say reasonably, knowing there’s no other response acceptable to their sister’s question. “I’ll make copies when I head into the office tomorrow.” All of the tender emotions aside, Ava’s response causes azure optics to roll into the back of their head as a laborious sigh part from their lips, “I’m saying it because I love you, Ava. You fought this hard to get here, and it’s about time you realize it too.” Stern, in her response, though it finds no connection to interrupt the gentle as a feather features, too distracted by returning the squeeze the other has given back and forth over the years.

She finds it best entirely to drop the topic of love and romance because what else could they possibly say? It’s sweet and endearing that Ava believes that someone is willing to match and accept the unforeseeable moments that may arise from Cleo. Part of them wants to be cheeky and remark how Ava just did ─ you’re saying this because you’re my sister. Because one, even in their darkest days and when the going get’s rough, they’ll believe in one another because it’s the sister’s sworn duty. Even if they want nothing more but to yell at each other or not see the other’s face, there’s no one else the blonde would’ve accepted this reassuring statement from other than Ava. So, taking the kindness and the possibility of an unknown entering their lives, the blonde removes themselves from the crouched position on the floor to go to a box nearby before dragging it over. “Oh shut up,” It comes out playfully from their mouth, as hues roll into the back of her conscience. “It’s not like I asked for these future career options! People just immediately assume I’m bored when I take one project at a time.” This isn’t the case, but the blonde knows the best way to build their business is by being innovative and using their resources effectively ─ rather than getting something done mediocrely just to get out there. It’s why her latest flavor, her sangria, has been taken well over a year to get to the near stage of nationwide release. “I’m trying to be nice to them,” she explains forcefully, hoping something would fall on her right there and then because it even slipped from her mouth. Everyone knows Cleo has a way of playing cruel jokes on Evelyn and Arthur, but she wants a fleeting punch before getting to the point of why they mentioned their parents. “I might have already sent them an RSVP with two ‘no’ option boxes.” Devilishly manicured brows dance in the other’s direction, sticking out their tongue at Ava because it will piss Evelyn off, which is what she succeeds at flawlessly. “And hey! I’m trying, okay? It’s going to be difficult, but this is why I’m extending the invitation to you…” Pausing, their head tilts to the side as the blonde prevents their best award-winning smile ─ which is a sight of discomfort immediate upon her cheeks as it forces the broad set of pearly whites as the only person who gets this stance is her dentist. “....to tame my spending.”

It was funny to him to see someone else to speak so freely of his best friend. Of course, there was his sister who had been in her company just as much, if not more than him, but Gabriel knew that the fraternal bond between siblings was completely different between that between two friends, at least that’s the way he had always felt towards Georgina and Ava. While with Ava he had unlimited freedom to be himself, with Georgina he had that and added to it, he had the companionship of someone who had grown up just the same as he had and little managed to beat that. Georgina was his back and call and by the way Cleo was talking about her sister, he didn’t doubt it was the same way for them either. Instead of becoming jealous, Gabriel was curious to hear all the stories about their upbringing and most of all, if the fact that they shared only half their DNA impaired anything between them. “Please don’t doubt that I haven’t tried before, your sister is just a pie maniac and there is no getting rid of her. One time she legit called me while I was eating pie, I swear she has a sixth sense or something,” he laughs, observing just how carefree Cleo looks. He wonders if they feel like that often, or if it’s only reserved for a few people. In all honesty, Gabriel is surprised at how many things he wonders about the blonde considering how long they had known each other and how little they actually knew about the other. It felt ridiculous to just have been brought together by an advertisement, maybe otherwise they wouldn’t have thought to spend time together.

Her next words caught him by surprise and his eyebrows shot up all the way to his hairline. He had never thought of himself as someone flirty. Maybe that came from years of being unlucky at love just because other women considered him to be stupid before he managed to rope himself in golf. He didn’t have the best conversation, instead of being smooth, he had always been rather awkward when it came to women he had crushes on or that he just liked. He remembered the first girl he had offered to be her boyfriend and it had gone terribly, with half the people in school laughing at him for speaking his feelings out loud. When it came to love, it always seemed like something was against him, even when he had thought to get himself someone good, someone who would love him forever. He remembered standing at the end of the aisle waiting for Rebecca to show up. He remembered how excited they had been about planning their wedding and their future together. He remembered just how it felt when she didn’t show up. 40 minutes he waited, because people said it was normal for brides to be late, 40 minutes before her friend came through the door and delivered him the note that had ended it all. Gabriel had never been smooth at love, but he had also promised never to lead anyone on to somewhere it wasn’t leading to, and he didn’t think he could never get himself to hurt someone like Cleo, both because Ava would castrate him and also because they were a hurricane. They deserved the best and for now, Gabriel had only been thinking about bonding with them, since they were bound to work so closely together.

“I am the worst at flirting, you should know that,” he tells them, with a light smile to his lips as always. It’s normal for Gabriel to smile so freely, he has plenty of reasons to, “not only it would be painfully obvious, but you’d also be laughing at my ass,” his smile is crooked which makes the left Livingston dimple show up easily. He feels that he doesn’t mind Cleo’s insinuation, maybe because he wouldn’t mind flirting with them, but he also didn’t want to push any buttons to bite more than he could chew. After Rebecca, his love life had been dull at best, and while he had been more than certain he wasn’t ready to go back into what it was, even if he had been shamelessly flirting with Marion knowing she was out of her league, someone like Cleo also was. It had been hard for him to feel confident again after being left at the altar, so he had been just letting things happen naturally. It was the best he could do for himself. It made him thankful that Cleo had brushed it off so quickly, otherwise he would start blushing and it would be a whole thing. “You, tackling me?” He raised one eyebrow in defiance, “I have to completely disagree with you, because I would very much like to see that. Do you know how much I have been poached to the football team in high school? Or the hockey team? I had to tell them they were making a fool out of themselves because no way I was ruining myself being tackled by other men,” he said in jest, “but, we can always see how far your tackling business goes.”

Jesus. What was he getting himself into?

He did not mean to sound like he was flirting with Cleo. He didn’t. The last thing both of them needed was for him to complicate their business arrangement and possible friendship with flirting, but it was like he couldn’t help himself. They were cute when they blushed as he had witnessed not five minutes before, and beyond that, they were just damn beautiful. Ava would definitely have a talking down with him when she heard about it, and that’s when he wished that his best friend never heard about the light banter he was trading with her sister. Maybe that’s just what it would be, after all. A light banter. Still, there was something about Cleo that was purely magnetic, and he could not deny it. The invitation of spending the afternoon together had come before he knew what he was even speaking, but their acceptance had been welcomed. Gabriel couldn’t remember the last time he had been across the “pond” and he couldn’t wait to be in LA again, of course he didn’t have any further important engagements like physical therapy that needed him for long and he hoped that would be the case for the rest of the day. There was something in him that didn’t want to cut their day short and it had been a while since someone caught his attention so much. He knew that it was partially because he had seen Cleo in their natural habitat, calling the shots, but there was also a curiosity that spanned years now, from always seeing them on the back whereas her sister occupied the forefront in his life. Always had. He knew Cleo was there at his almost wedding and maybe even some competitions their parents had been invited to by Gabriel’s parents, but the fact that they never had the chance to properly meet the other boggled his mind.

Leaning back on his chair, he let them speak, Cleo’s life being completely different from his made for a compelling story and he nodded along while they explained. He could never imagine having his life so out there like their was. Gabriel was essentially a private person, he enjoyed going outside and not having cameras following him left and right simply because golf wasn’t much of an interesting sport and other than Tiger Woods, he couldn’t be really considered one who brought much drama into the game. He enjoyed living in comparative freedom to someone who actively once had cameras following them around and filming their every conversation. He had not ventured himself into watching the reality show, he needed to admit that he knew more about it from friends than anything, but it wasn’t something he would ever judge Cleo for doing, simply because sometimes you just needed to take opportunities and run with them. He could understand that. It’s just that after the whole enhancement drugs scandal, he never wanted to be looked under a microscope like that.

“I’m sorry about that,” he said when he heard about her accident, it wasn’t his fault, but it didn’t keep him from empathizing with it. “It sucks to be kept from doing something you love, right? Sometimes our bodies just betray us more than we’d like them to,” he offered a small shrug, his tone left it open for her if she wanted to discuss more about it, but he didn’t want them to feel pushed to lay out their heart for him. There was a certain trauma a person couldn’t get over and Gabriel would be the first to admit he was damn well scared to never be able to play again because of his shoulder, he literally did not know who he was outside of golf at this moment. “So you just went about and made a whole ass lemonade out of the lemons life gave you right? I’m not a stranger to your accomplishments, your sister is very proud of you and shoves your website in my face whenever possible,” he smiles kindly at Cleo, reaching for a sip of his iced tea. “So, what’s next? I mean, you have the jewelry line, but you don’t seem like someone who would just stand still like that. What do you have cooking that will render the world at your feet again?”

♚

Cleo finds it peculiar at how right, yet how much solace they’re currently feeling being around someone who’s been an enigma to their azure rims. From the way Gabriel has handled himself over the years, winning his victories on the greenway down to the way he took control of the situation of Rebecca leaving him at the altar, has caused the platinum blonde to think highly of him from a distance. There are very few people in this world who can pick themselves from the lows that misfortunes grants them, let alone realize everyone will remember the sight but not once, in all of these years of being background noise and fleeting image to Gabe’s life did Cleo think anything ill about him. Not only does it say a lot for her to believe this, given the young demi woman tends to keep people at arm’s length to avoid heartbreak. Essentially, for this reason, she worries once people get to know them… they’ll want nothing to do with them anymore or lose interest entirely ─ which others have done in past dynamics: platonic and romantic. It’s why they rarely break their protocol and allow themselves to grows affable with someone as they still have a business proposition soon to be completed.

Yet with Gabriel Livingston, all of their rules get broken and cause the platinum blonde not to care, for once. This change of pace makes them feel exhilarated, feeling as if the wind gusting off Avalon Bay supports everything that will be happening this afternoon: lunch, then an eventual trip to Los Angeles, which is something she’s looking forward to. More of a reason to get them to learn about the other, mainly to make them comfortable with the upcoming photo shoot, and to know their observant nature comes from a place of care ─ as words often fail to be their strong suit in the declaration. As another puff of the warm, growing summer breeze passes through their seated position at Bluewater Avalon, their mouth corners have remained upturned from the moment hues latched onto each other. It further enhances its positioning because seeing how Gabe speaks about her sister, given the lighthearted nature of the topic, shows how much of an impact Ava has had on others over the years. If Cleo could have Ava here right now, specifically to see how loved and how people cherish her, all of the remarks her sister makes about being undeserving of love would fly right out of the window at once. “Sometimes I think she’s a witch, or those horror films somehow got to her head and is playing tricks with her.” Froliciness drizzles throughout her singsong falsetto, aware this isn’t how motion pictures work in the end. For once, they’ll be able to enjoy and pretend that’s the case when it comes to Ava, as these two have an initial stepping stone they can use to grow close to each other.

But, in the inquisitive nature and the wear-off of the vibrant pink from the apple of their cheeks, instead of feeling the pulsing of their heart, the woman finds a way to divert entirely. One is to avoid the possibility of him having a quick enough chance to poke lightly at her response of him being cute ─ as she further thinks about it in the silence, realizing that he is attractive and anyone would be lucky to be sitting opposite of him right now, in which they can relate to . He has a refreshing way of leaving her speechless already, though the blonde herself frequently inhabit that trait. He’s a rare breed of man to exist. The kind that would never hurt you purposefully or with intention, let alone make you feel less than, as he would provide his undivided loyalty and wouldn’t even turn his head to look at another figure: even if it was Gisele Bündchen, in the flesh. He’s everything that a woman could want, as oddly enough, it’s a blessing that Rebecca didn’t make an effort in following through with the wedding because the former flame didn’t deserve him. Because if Cleo can see all of the possibilities he has, others should be able to see the same.

So when he responds to her question, which is a viable question in getting to know someone, a part of the blonde feels…. special. Aware that he won’t go to someone else later in the day, pull the same cards, and have a round of women launching themselves on them. It’s nice, all too nice, that she doesn’t quite know what the pool of warmth and flutters circulating in their chest means. But, rather than dismissing it and turning a switch to their glacial, business-driven stance Gabe saw in the meeting, they relish in this side that Cleo forgot existed within her. “I don’t know, Fabio,” A nickname that she just pulled out of their ass, not in offense but because Gabe has this allure they’re growing attracted to. Her arms rest on the edge of the table before they begin to lean closer to him. There’s a strange, sultry tightening of their expressions in an indication they are willing to accept the challenge of the other flirting with them. There may be plenty of other blushes along the way, but they’ll prefer to be the judge of actor on what his flirts entail. “I probably would like it, especially if they were punny flirts because those are always the best, and I like unconventional things,” she informs with dancing brows. It’s wrong to provocate him. Not because the platinum blonde has dreamt of digging their freshly coated nails into his pale flesh and of ruining him left, right, up, and down to feel anything, but everything besides that. It’s like all of these years, something was depriving in their world, and they couldn’t quite figure out why: until they got to speaking and their conversations flowed from one point next to the other. Finally, someone who heard them, saw them through the mist of their appearances on the people’s television, to see a human being on the opposite side.

Retrieving back from their leaning stance, aware she was now flirting with him, Cleo lifts the glass of water to their petals for a quick sip of water. At the same time, his story of being poached by football and hockey team doesn’t astound her, though it doesn’t stop her from continuing with their spontaneity. “You think your story will scare me away, Livingston?” A tilt of their head as an inquisitive brow hots to the other before a pitted sea of laughter escapes. “How about we try it out one day…. You, me, twister, and paint one afternoon?” They’ve seen a plethora of pictures of this activity unfolding between people, and it would go hand-in-hand with Cleo’s attempt to tackle Gabe in a space where they might have the upper hand: in a game with physical skill. It is a fun way for them to spend more time together, as no part of her wants these dynamics growing between them ever to end. “Whoever wins this tackling attempt, the other is allowed to hold it over the other’s head for the entire day,” she suggests with high spirits. “And the other has to drink their least form of liquor.”

After all, when she wants to prove herself, for the greater good of a laugh, a memory of instilling a further bond, or just because sometimes people need to have fun, they’ll pull off the stops necessary to make it worth it. Though, to think of it, maybe he’ll come to regret making the suggestion and allowing the possibility of wanting to spend time with them. Oh God, somehow in this thought pinches a worry because it wouldn’t have been the first time Cleo has ruined something good or came off as too passionate since pandora’s box unraveled itself due to good company.

So, laborious gratitude overtakes when they’re able to shift the topic that still manages to tug on her heartstring. Still, it’s something they’ll always appreciate even if she didn’t achieve much nor had a chance to showcase their ability on the big stage, just like Cleo dreamed of. “Certain things are beyond your control, you know?” The blonde reasons in a returned tranquil tone, shoulders shrugging that it could’ve happened to anyone. Or the circumstance of her accident could’ve been worse. Either way, she’s here, reflecting even with despondency brawny in its midst, before shifting in her chair. “Did you know that I’ve trained for ballet since I was 6?” Partially why there could’ve been a smidge disconnection in them, having only made an effort now. “My mom hired me a private instructor, Tamara Rojo. I didn’t know how much Tamara would mean to me… like a mother figure I didn’t think I needed,” she smiles halfway through the story, “She gave me infinite courage and support. So when my dreams came to an end, she didn’t leave me behind or make me feel less than. Instead, she got me back on track, told me to take every opportunity ahead of me without a second thought because it can be something beautiful and unlike before,” sighing happily, “Ava and her did everything for me.”  

Pausing for a moment, mainly to catch her breath because it felt like Cleo’s been talking the entire time, corners of her eyes crease in delight to share this with him. Hopefully, it didn’t overwhelm him, but there’s a lot people didn’t know about them. “And to answer your question, I have my wine brand, Essence of Petra, which has an upcoming sangria flavor release in next month or so, but other than that… I’ll see where it goes.” Optimistic, hopefulness, and willing to see what the universe has in store for them. She’s already planned her life out before, and it crumbled before getting a chance. It isn’t worth it to do the second time around. “Now, I have to ask you something ─” Humming, licking her lips, before lightbulb goes off, “Do you think you’ll go back to golf once arm is clear to swing again or will you turn into another horror, funeral connoisseur like my sister?”

Gabriel was interesting while growing up, to say the least. A scrawny and much too tall for his age kid with a knack for sticking his nose in comic books and taking his best friend out of trouble— said best friend being Ava Halliwell, of course. He remembered the countless times he would hide her away from her mother or take the hit in her stance and tell the adults he had done that when she had been the one. Not to mention when she came late at night throwing rocks at his window begging for some kind of mischief. The only mischief Gabriel had been accustomed to were the ones the villains and super heroes got in the pages of his comic book, the rest just seemed to be… out of his league in a way. 

He was glad that they had grown out of those earlier years, his friendship with Ava so strong nowadays that it made him question why did he know so little of her half-sister. It was even weirder when considering the other way around and Ava was so ingrained in her family it was kind of ridiculous. Still, as he stood there in front of the smaller blonde, Gabriel wondered what could have happened had their friendship spanned years. Cleo was seemingly much more imposing than their sister, and knowing their place in the world too. It had amused him to see them take charge of their meeting, explaining everything that would happen while her lawyers were just there nodding and agreeing with them. It was clearly Cleo’s show and they were just secondary characters and there was nothing Gabriel thought bad about it. In fact, seemed like being surrounded by strong, demanding women had just been his fate. Often in family functions him and his dad would take a step outside to take a breather, not because they were suffocated, more like in awe, and also because it was half-impossible to get a word in when Sylvie, Georgina and Gabby started talking about something the three of them were passionate about. At this point they were more than used to taking the backseat to their women. Gabriel did not mind that at all.

“Oh, unfortunately, I have,” he joked with grin to his lips, “she already ate more than half of a pie I was really looking forward to eating it, I don’t think I can ever forgive her for it,” his nose scrunched a bit as memories flooded his mind and it was funny that Cleo wasn’t there. It made him wonder why since their families seemed to live in the same world, financially, at least, but not only that, there were far too many ties surrounding them for them to just have officially traded more than two words now. He was sure that if he asked his mother at a later occasion, he woman would be able to dig up several pictures of Cleo with his family, just like she had managed to do so for Ava. He made a mental note on that, hoping not to forget as he usually did.

But there were only a handful of similarities between the blonde and their sister. Gabriel might not know Cleo enough yet, but he knew enough of Ava to notice them and to be amused and interested in finding more. Asking her to spend the afternoon with him was certainly going to prove to be better for him than for them, seeing as Gabriel was in constant need of company, he was just thankful Cleo had agreed to come along. One side of his lips tugged up in a crooked smile at Cleo’s defiance, he would have crossed his arm in front of his chest if he could, but he just observed them. “Well, I’m glad that you think I’m cute,” he picks up on the word with a bashful wink, but her confidence is charming, if anything. In all seriousness, he really couldn’t wait for their photoshoot in a few weeks, as he was certain that Cleo would command the room just like they had been doing since the meeting and it would be fun to see them doing something they were more than an expert at, unlike him. Maybe he could invite her golfing sometime to get her to see him in an environment where he had true confidence. “You can’t just hand me the gold like that Cleo, you gotta make me work for it,” Gabriel jokes, “but I promise that if I do take any pictures or any videos it will be for my personal enjoyment, maybe your sister’s if I really need something from you,” he continues before shaking his head. “I’m joking, you don’t have to worry about me posting any shit from you without your expressed approval, but I still can’t promise that I wont take any pictures or video, it’s just how friendship works, you gotta have something to you an upper hand and I have a feeling that I might just need every upper hand I can get with you.”

Putting his hand inside his pocket and fishing for his car keys, Gabriel had never been more thankful for the conversation he had with Gabriella who had convinced him to start driving as soon as he was able to before trauma took over. With a nod in agreement, he motioned with his hand for her to follow him to his rented car, opening the door to the passenger’s seat so she could get in and closing the door before maneuvering over to the other side and getting in. The drive from Cleo’s office to the Bluewater Avalon was fun and short, mindless chatter and talks of the upcoming photoshoot as Gabriel made sure to ask her what exactly was she expecting of him other than looking absolutely sexy, which he laughed about. Cleo almost made him completey forget of the reason why he hadn’t driven so far and it wasn’t until they stopped at the vallet and Gabriel needed to completely contort his upper body to take the seat belt off that he even remembered. It didn’t take long for the two of them to get seated and get their orders in so conversation could resume to normal.

“So, tell me, I have been extra cruious on that. What made you choose the entertainment career? I mean, reality TV seems intense, if anything.”

♚

People say good company is infectious ─ whether it be someone altering an input in a scenario to bring a different point of view or causing one to radiate in utter joy, it’s something one should be taken for granted because no one knows the impact that could be made. In this circumstance, frequently unfamiliar to the blonde, this refreshing aura comes in the form of Gabriel Livingston: monstrous, smiling like he could cure the world by that glistening array alone. Cleo has merely forgotten what it’s like to be around people, wholesome in their approach and overall being other than her sister, over the years. It’s not like she hangs out with the wrong crowd, though others would say she’s the faulty apple, when it’s the fact much of her life has been able to hustle to be something and someone of importance.

It’s partially her fault because thrashing oneself into work rather than romance and the possibility of finding a person, willing and all, to love them without question is something they premeditatedly avoided. But, of course, on top of the list of remarks that they’re a human being, unable to love or receive love as partners from the past knew how to stab her repeatedly till enough left the blonde walking out the front door for the last time ever.

Weirdly enough, the longer the petite blonde stands within his personal space, finding her breathing to matching with his as she uses the fleeting quietude to observe him within close vicinity. Doing the latter action grants her an opportunity to pick up on features of his face she wouldn’t have had a chance before while doing it subtly to avoid Gabe becoming aware of such action and using it to his advantage. It further entices the wonder why it took them this long to talk ─ rather than exchanging pleasantries before vanishing into thin air. Perhaps it could’ve been the infamous fact of Rebecca being in the picture. When she saw him with the former-lover other, it made Cleo smile because it came off as a love story that would handle any mercurialness thrown their way. Additionally, it could’ve been the fact the minute a woman became congenial with the opposite gender, specifically while they were seeing someone else, jealousy came to the surface. Or, another point that crosses her mind and holds no severe potency is Gabriel was Ava’s friend first. It’s not like the sisters would fight over a friend, but it’s a situation that Cleo wanted to avoid entirely until a point where their paths would continue to find each other. It only made sense now, all of the years, these two made an effort to get to know each other as a plethora of wonder intertwined itself.

So, instead of the characteristic deadpanned expression that’s settled upon their demeanor amongst others, Cleo’s features bloom and grasp onto a rare illumination. It’s the excellent company influencing her, rapid in her thinking as Gabe details the sight of Ava’s pie addiction. “You have to be quick around my sister,” they jest, brows matching the lightheartedness, “Like eat some pie before her nose gets a chance to sniff it out.” The mere suggestion comes out in a bolster intertwined their singsong range, masking the truth of acknowledging since it’s something they’ve done before. Her hands rest upon her hips, keeping a craned neck to be able to visualize the entire sight of him: expressions, the tenuous view of elevens growing between both of his brows. It adds something to him as it’s the sight of him aging well, as other men at thirty-four look like burnt toast right out of the toaster. “Trust me, I won’t give you horrible advice unless I want you to fail, and that’s not the kind of person I am, I like to do things for others in unconventional ways if they let me,” she speaks softly, licking her bottom petal out of force of habit: having always been unaware of the specific trigger. “So consider that an ounce of advice and wisdom for next time, Ava and yourself decide to indulge in some pie. I have plenty more if you need them,” concluding in a tilt of their head and a wink.

Nothing but good, lighthearted, fun between friends ─ growing friends, which is pleasant to think about.

But, they can’t relish all too long upon before he finds a way to bring up the statement on how cute he is, as it makes a laborious expression shift. The blonde’s features begin to widen in their trance with searching azure optics fixing themselves elsewhere in her office building as it punctured light and airy prior holding. Something in the back corner of the Avalon building is a welcomed distraction, essentially in fact, for once ─ in all of their brisk witted years ─ has to do a double turn to figure out how to respond. Though the longer she fixates on this off-guard remark, and the bashful wink from his behalf replaying, an uncharacteristic color of pink settles on the apple of her cheeks. Hopefully, before he’s able to catch sight, her head ducks down and low, focusing on the exquisite design of their choice of heels this afternoon. “Do you say this to all of the girls? Flirt or whatever that was?” Questioning because not only is their own game rusty, but it’s all a part of the purpose of getting to know each other. Because if Gabe pulls this card on them next time, she’ll be prepared, or enough so where she won’t mimic someone’s horrific sunburn. Eventually, when the heat vanishes from her cheeks, azure optics make contact with his matching set. “Sorry, it’s easy to steal candy from a baby’s possession,” she authenticity belly laughs, “I just have to make sure you know ahead of time because the last thing we want is for me to attempt to tackle you, in hopes of getting to your phone.”

The sight of a tiny Cleo attempting to knock down Gabriel would be a sight to be reckoned with, as she lays it flat out there in potential ways to delete any form of evidence that comes to sit on his device. But, just like the woman has a plan and direction for their upcoming shoot, the same is said for any other encounter that finds them. The rhythm of their playful remark doesn’t cause either of them to miss a beat; her stomach growls in alert it’s to continue forward with their next plan. A few steps back against the hardwood floor toward their office, her index fingers point at him. “Alright, Fabio, let me grab my purse, yeah?” And this alone lead them to a short car ride, helping him feel reassured about this upcoming shoot, keeping an open bridge of communication for any questions he might have in the course of the hours or days, for that matter.

OPEN STARTER​​ @catalinastarter​

LOCATION:  VENTURA COFFEE ROASTING CO.

DATE & TIME: May 5, 2021 at 3PM

“You know what I learned today?” Tyson asked before taking a sip of his black iced coffee, eyes glued to his cellphone. He was on one today. It was one of those days where he was just a ball of curiosity. Tyson just wanted to know things. One random question would spiral out into an internet deep dive. Article after article, he would just keep going. The next thing he’d know, it was five hours later and he was 100 degrees away from what he was originally looking for. 

“Actually, I don’t really care if you wanna know, I’m going to tell you any way because it’s interesting.” He places his phone on the table before leaning forward. “So, you know baking soda right? And obviously it’s different than baking powder. But do you know what the difference is? Baking soda is sodium bicarbonate. It’s a leavening agent. In order to work well, it needs some sort of acid. Vinegar. Buttermilk. Something.” 

His eyes widened with excitement as if he was talking about something fantastical. “Baking powder, on the other hand, that’s an all in one leavening agent. It’s essentially baking soda mixed with a dry acid, cream of tartar, and like cornstarch or something. So like you don’t need a liquid acid to activate it. It can just be activated with water. And like not even just that, baking powder can be double reacting so like one reaction happens when you’re prepping things then another one happens when it’s heated. Like, isn’t that interesting? I mean, clearly no on a like excitement scale but also…yes. Anyway, what’s something you’ve learned today?”

♚

An unpredicted utility incident shifted the entire afternoon Cleo had planned for work ─ answer the evergrowing e-mail filling her inbox and take time to prepare for the upcoming release of their sangria flavor. Rather than doing a full-blown bash with extraordinary sights and an evening, others won’t forget, the blonde decides to shift this energy onto their thirty-first birthday, which isn’t until July. Still, the tendency to get ahead of themselves gets the best of them. So, it was a strict plan and one the business owner was ready for… until the power on the block where her office resides meant no electricity, internet, and with increasing summer temperature, staying in the confines of her comfort would be a treacherous design.

It’s why they went out of their way to go to Ventura Coffee Roasting Co., seated in what she thought to be a tranquil corner changed with a snap of the fingers. A fellow, what she suspects to be twenty-something, was settled nearby and began to go into a tangent ─ though an acceptable one as it surprisingly captured their attention. “Well, it will be hard to ignore because it comes with a lot of brainpower, which is limited as it is because this day has been a shitshow.” This explains their features’ slight furrow, feeling bits and pieces of tension roll over their body. Unfortunately, though, that statement could be taken the wrong way, so quickly and with the sound of clearing her throat, she says next: “Not because you’re telling me about baking soda, but because Avalon is a shitshow.”

However, making their point come across and the unlikelihood of any work getting done today, the blonde settles in the chair. Arms were intersecting over her chest, not in any sort of dismissal but curiosity, along with providing undivided attention to their new companion. Ever so often, the nod and hum approvingly, galvanized by the turn of the evident. “Impressive, I will forever look baking powder and baking soda differently knowing these details. And if I ever need to use this information as an icebreaker, I’ll remember this,” she says with a soft smile. “As for myself, did you know William Shakespeare invent the name Jessica?” Not exactly, but it could’ve been an influential factor. “Well, an moreso the anglicization of the biblical name, Isach, but when you say them…. boom. ”

He was still unaware of why he had been specifically chosen to pose alongside Cleo in this campaign, thinking that they surely had other men who were far more comfortable in front of cameras. Still, that didn’t keep him from saying yes— he already had a whole lot lined up for him for when his shoulder mobility fully returned and he was still finding ways of fitting even more under his belt. He was looking forward being busy. Yes, he was working with Ava at the funeral home now, but before the accident his life was filled with travel and practice and hanging out with the kids once he was in the island and golfing Sundays with his father and Georgina. He missed being that kind of busy and the sheer amount of things he had to do daily were diverse enough to keep him concentrated in ways he wasn’t when he was a child and in ways he wasn’t being able to be at that moment.

It was one of the reasons why he had brought over his agent to the meeting. Gabriel had never done very well with the bureaucracy which entitled his career and sitting through meetings with sharp attention was nearly impossible, there was always some stimuli outside the window that was far more interesting than anything that was happening inside the room. His first agent that been his proud father, but as soon as they needed some crisis control when Gabriel had tested positive for performance enhancement drugs, they decided that it was best to hire a professional, that way Johnathan could concentrate in helping Gabriel in practices once he decided it was time to play again.

It had been, by far, the hardest moment in his career. He still didn’t think his family understood how big were the shoes he had to fill. Once he had taken a liking to golf, most sports news outlets wanted to know if he would be able to be compared to his father and once he started ranking up, they compared him to even more talented golf players. He had bulked under the pressure, he felt like there was little he could do to measure up and that’s when the drugs had found their way into his life. It was honestly a surprise that he hadn’t been caught earlier and he knew it was something both Johnathan and Sylvie blamed themselves for, but it was hardly their fault. He was thankful for having a strong enough family that could make him rebuild his career and reputation and make him get so far the second time around, most players wouldn’t have had that chance and some of them wouldn’t even have endorsements from big brands, or the opportunity to pose shirtless with Cleo Halliwell.

“Well, I’ve seen your sister eat— so you have big shoes to fill,” he didn’t mean to compare the two of them, not in a bad way, anyway, it was more of a joke and at the mention of her liking sweets, Gabriel grinned. “So does that mean that you’re easy to please with sweets? If you’re free for the day I know a place but we’d have to take a ferryboat ride and as you might know by now, I’m enjoying the life of someone who has zero responsibilities other than bothering your sister who has somehow accepted my help at the funeral home.” Cleo and Ava’s differences might start on the hair color, but sure as hell didn’t stop there, which was a good thing for the man, because his best friend was so unique it only made sense that her sister was too. “As for lunch how do you feel about some seafood? I’ve been practicing in cracking lobsters with my left hand and I can guarantee you a show.”

♚

Being someone willing to take risks comes with a plethora of mixed reactions. Investors frequently tell the blonde everything will backfire on her, and all of the hard work will be discredited with just a snap of one’s fingers. It should frighten her to the core ─ keeping her awake at the potential of uncertainty that lives in this world and any mess up that may happen. But not once, specifically in the last nine years, has trepidation made its way to the surface. It’s mainly because Cleo wants to be the best, and by being the best, one has to take risks and get out of their comfort zone often. Or every single time, for example.

Either way, she’s always been a flight risk from a young age, as it only hindered further as she got older from ideas, to erratic decisions made in the spur of the moment. So even if others frequently questioned their choices, such as the back-and-forth of finding a counterpart to model alongside, everyone decided to trust her. She may not be Mary Poppins, or remotely close, but there’s a positive feeling lingering around this. They’ll be able to make this work, even if the blonde has to work overtime to make sure Gabriel is comfortable (because she knows it’s essential with the route of this advertisement) with adjusting him into a zone that may turn into something beautiful unlike pastimes before.

As his team seemed to agree to the conditions without minimal refute. It settled the deal earlier than the blonde expected, but it’s good she’ll have clarity for the rest of the day and the proceeding weeks to come before the big day. It will even give Cleo a chance to understand why Ava decided on Gabriel as her best friend ─ not like she was judging whatsoever. But, for the reason that her conscience failed to focus on things other than work. Her knit-tight relationships could be counted on a single hand. Her desire to date is on the backburner because every time Cleo tries to open her heart, an instant response on how she’s unlovable parts from her partner’s behalf. Or she’s pressured to date, only to get knocked up because Evelyn wants to be a grandmother. The cycle is vigorous and has driven her to work while assisting others in moving on with the next chapter of their lives, as she stood firm in the cement watching life pass by. Though, for once, with an open invitation from his behalf and a day free of work, because she didn’t know how long the meeting would take, the blonde allows herself to enjoy what may unfold.

A peal of laughter enters into their surroundings about Ava’s appetite, brows consuming her forehead now. “Ava’s a monster when food’s nearby, huh? Have you seen her with pies yet?” Questioning with a comical honey-tone, remembering her sister’s competitive nature when pie-eating competitions come into any conversation. It’s like the sight of all of her morals fly right out of the window, but it isn’t uncommon for the Halliwell girls to break the gender norms held for women. “It’s cute you’re challenging me because if there’s one thing everyone knows, I love proving people wrong,” she informs with confidence, looking him up and down with a tampered expression in the attempt to intimidate. In retrospect, Gabriel could pick her up, throw her over his shoulder, and tell her to knock it off if he wanted to, as parents do with children. It’s the power of his height that causes him to have the upper hand though it didn’t harm either of them to be playful, as it’s one of the tactics the blonde uses to get comfortable with someone. But, her intimidation is fleeting before a soft beam consumes her lips, witnessing how quick of a learner he is. “I am free and gladly will accept all bribes with sugary substances, especially if it’s Cookie Dough Ice cream,” she winks with a shimmy of her shoulders. Though, a thought half a second later goes off in her head as they say, “Just promise that if I get a sugar high that you’ll avoid taking any pictures or videos?”

And here they are, insisting on a promise to someone who could embarrass her by releasing any video. Like they’ve been doing these outgoings for years, rather than being familiar with each other due to their family’s associations with one another. “I love seafood,” Cleo says blithely as her soft beam widens unexpectedly. “And I love free television since I could use an afternoon not watching the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills in my house to mask that I’m ‘working’,” using the fleeting moment to bring the air quotes around, “So, you got yourself a deal,” she nods with a smile, thinking about local seafood establishments near them and the office. “How does Bluewater Avalon sound?”

The bad always wielded more power over the good; the same could be said by her childhood memories, so when the two Halliwell’s were now sitting on the floor, reminiscing about the past — Ava only realised now, how much she focused on her anger with her family, and that she lacked in being the sister that was expected of her. Just like the same expectation she placed upon Arthur and Evelyn Halliwell all her life. Although the later merely seemed like a bizarre dream in her mind, she often wondered if Cleo ever harboured some form of resentment for that. At the same time, she knew her sister well enough that she would not be afraid to speak up when needed. It was one of the qualities that she admired about the blonde. As her younger sister listed out the photos she required copies of, the brunette began to filter them out of the stack of photographs, just in case they would slip her mind once Cleo headed home for the night. “The four of us?” Her brows knitted together as she looked through the photos again, only to find two in said pile. “Oh, there’s these two,” She handed them over to her, in case she wanted to inspect them herself. Perhaps it was saddening how there was so few of the four Halliwell sisters together, but then, it was rare to find a moment when the six of them all gotten along in harmony. Smiling fondly at her sister’s remark, she could almost feel the apples of her cheeks heat up faintly as her mind drifted to Rory for a brief moment. “You know it’s nice. Really nice. I still don’t think I deserve it sometimes…yet here we are. But when you really want it, Cleo — you will have it when the time comes, as cheesy as that sound.”

The mention of Cleo’s collection caused laughter to spill over her lips, shaking her head in thought at her sister wielding such weapon over these years. It was something that never failed to amuse her, even though the prospect of it often rose people’s brows at times. Still, nothing about being a part of their family indicated normality. That was the rule one of growing up in such household. “You collect bats, I find the funeral home relaxing — there’s nothing normal in a day of being a Halliwell. They can judge all they want, it’s better than some of the fetishes out there, if you’re asking me.” Grinning, she nodded in agreement at her sister’s words. “You know, if this wine business doesn’t work out, you can always try out the bats, it’s niche enough to get people’s attention anyway. Maybe you should copyright that before anyone gets the same idea.” Although she was not that knowledgable when it came to those kind of businesses, it was more the blonde’s forté than anything. “Huh, any chance you can get rid of it, before anyone has a chance to show them to Rory?” Ava asked in jest, but it wouldn’t be the most terrible idea to rid them all, considering it was often a time of her life that she remained tight-lipped about. Something she had partaken in against her own will. She couldn’t help but blush slightly at the remark about Ellie being her future sister-in-law, briefly reminded of her boyfriend’s sudden proposal in the past year. “That’s good, I’m glad you can get her in on that. She’s still young, she deserves all the fun.” She smiled fondly as she continued. “But you know I’ll be there to help at any moment’s notice, I need a break from all the funerals ever so often after all. Sometimes the living aren’t all that bad — present company included, of course.”

♚

Their childhood was far from ordinary and conventional. Friday nights weren’t spent as a family around the dining table, reflecting about the week or walking down memory lane. The four girls frequently saw their parents and their work-striven attitude. Most of the nights growing up, Cleo was tucked and read to sleep by one of the many nannies ─ their appearance in the girl’s life remained limited because the minute they got too close, Evelyn would fire them, and a new face would be held responsible. It’s a robust cycle that carried well into their late teens until independence slithered to the surface. Over the years, there hadn’t been a moment where the blonde held any remorse against their sisters. While she may not be sharing secrets often with the younger sisters or have a chance to see them regularly like Ava, Cleo loves them, and that much matters. “Yup, the four of us,” Reciprocating Ava’s question with a slight purse of their lips and vaulted brows, aware the request is slim-to-unlikely. It didn’t hurt to ask though, because the hidden treasures found in the box may grant them further luck. As predicted, it’s unfortunate, but she still takes the photos in the possession as a simper twirled upward on her mouth corners. “Mind if I keep these? I have some free picture frames and could use some life to my foyer.” And by life, in their conscience, meant showcasing the fact they have a family rather than still photos that remained from the moment of its purchase. “You deserve it,” she points out roughly, a pointed look towards Ava to knock it off with these statements. “Because believe me, out of all people, you deserve this happiness.” It’s as simple as that. “As for myself, it will be interesting to find someone willing to handle my whole being and bat collection, but I’m sure there’s someone out there.”

Fortunately, not giving them much of a chance to think about how they haven’t been blatantly trying, the theatrics of her own being still hasn’t disappointed her yet. Nor is there a likelihood that it will. So the indelible walk down memory lane comes with a guffaw impacting creases in her eye corners and a bright red from the emotions settling on the apple of their cheeks. There’s never been a time with Ava where she hasn’t been engulfed in utter merriment. “Talk about engrossing forms of interest, huh?” Laying the hilarity thick in the interlude free of laughter, nodding a moment later. “Noted ─ I have two routes if my life goes to shit: invent state of the art baseball bats or be an agent to the evergrowing sea of upcoming actors and actresses,” she acknowledged. It could be something. After all, she knows a plethora of knowledge in business and first-hand experience smooth-talking investors from all sides of the field. This known brawny behavior on her behalf will serve Ava well in retrieving the pictures with ease, a tranquil feeling radiating from them. “Oh, with no problem. I’ll have a good window if I’m able to send Evelyn and Arthur on a goose chase,” she smirks, “Just tell me the date you want this completed by.” Casually sending a wink to her sister, peering into the box as the remnants have left its perspective home. It counts a victory given there’s more they have to tackle; they can extend this break period a couple of additional minutes. “I’ll text you with a confirmation date; then we can whip something up. I don’t want anything extra.” Shocker, but she holds a hand up to insist a continuation of words, “I know, hell will freeze over because this statement dared to come out of my mouth, but I’d rather celebrate it with family, close friends, and anyone from my team.”

As she adored the blonde with all her heart, it was a lighthearted comment in retaliation to all the times her friend had been right about everything, and never once being wrong. Just one time though, she wouldn’t deny that she’d find some amusement in uttering ‘I told you so’ just one time. Yet a part of her believed that she better not be holding her breath regarding that matter. Funnily enough, a part of her just knew whenever the union of their siblings’ union happened, that would not change a single aspect of their dynamic; if anything, it would only make that foundation stronger. Perking up at Cleo’s remark, her grin widened confidently as Eleanor spoke. “Duh, of course I have! Watch me featured in the next Comedy Central Roast, I’ve been meaning to branch out to comedy in a while.” Had her agent been here tonight, that would most certainly give him ideas for her next project, yet a part of her feared in that genre, as that the kind of project she always strayed away from. An unladylike scoff slipped from her lips at Cleo’s jest, although she meant no offence by her reaction. If anything, it was probably expected from the woman sitting before her. “Oh yeah? Can you guarantee that your team will back you on that?” She wiggled her brows in question, although it was more or less rhetorical considering she never doubted her friend’s capability in her job.

Eleanor couldn’t help but wonder how her parents would feel had they known her involvement with Cleo’s project, whether there would be a sense of pride lingering in the air, knowing that she might just possessed a little bit of knowledge with her family’s business, enough to provide assistance to another. “You know, you might be able to give my agent a run for his money — but don’t tell him I said that.” She mimed a zipping gesture over her lips. She would even dare to say that the man terrified her sometimes, and she knew she could be a handful to handle already. “Yeah, but you know, I’m not sure if that was just your way to coax me out of hiding,” She retorted in jest, although really, it was the company that mattered more to her. It wasn’t until when she was thrusted into the whirlwind of Hollywood when she realised she’d taken her times with her loved ones for granted, cherishing these rare moments when she got to spend time and catching up because they were hard to find nowadays. “You know, I heard the best decision made is when you’re intoxicated, don’t know where I read it from, but I know it’s out there somewhere.” Then, she finally reached over and took rather a gulp of the sample, savouring the flavour before speaking up again. “Oh, this has a kick to it.” She took another, smaller sip this time. “But it’s nice. Like I said, it can be an acquired taste. Have you thought of the theme you’re going for? In terms of flavouring all the way to marketing? I mean — I know my family owns a winery and all, but if you feel like I’m talking out of my ass at any time, just stop me while I’m not fully drunk yet.”

♚

The more time Cleo and Ellie spend together, the more similarities amongst the pairings wither themselves to the surface. Having always been aware of the other’s crackhead nature and thrill for being the center of attention, the brunette’s effortless jests and the ability to twist their arm playfully, is something the blonde has grown to love. It’s like having another sister, on top of the two younger ones she has, but a connection that her own blood failed to make an effort in. Either way, moments like these are ones she’ll cherish entirely since the unpredictability of when they’ll see each other next is due to their crammed schedule as they’re passing ships in all rounds of the day. So, even though Cleo knows Ellie’s remark is accurate, all they can do is ridicule offense before sticking her tongue out at the other ─ a nonverbal indication the other is correct, but just this once. “If you make this happen, make sure you invite me and have a spot reserved in the front row. I want to heckle you as often as possible.” A plethora of honey-toned waggishness enters into the air with a mischievousness impacting a single corner. After a moment, Cleo leans over the chair’s armrest to nudge the other in the elbow. Short in the lifespan of the action, but it keeps up with the lighthearted manner both of them frequently indulge their conversations with. Until the scoff from the other’s behalf causes azure optics to roll into the back of her head, only to shoot a pointed expression after a moment of their own physical dramatics pass through. Scoffing, her shoulders pin back before saying: “Take a day out of your busy day, and I’ll show you everything, and you’ll regret doubting my words,” she finalizes with a pointed look. 

Taking the sample glass of this spiced sangria into her hand, she lifts a hand toward the string light above them to observe the substance’s potency and make sure something settles at the bottom. The sight may come off as peculiar, but the process of finalizing on this third installment of her liquor line challenged her from the moment they began discussing. One issue, after another, came its way to the surface that things have been looking forward. Still, it hasn’t helped entirely minimize her anxiety ─ which probably won’t subside until the sangria is on shelves and positive reviews come through. Thankfully, the trance of observing the substance in the light breaks by her own chuckle. “Who do you think would win a verbal argument? Your agent or me? This is how we determine the accuracy of your statement,” Cleo jokes, growing intrigued by the response she may receive. “And define what hiding means to you because we have different definitions of that,” she remarks with a tilting head. If hiding meant one to two candid appearances in a month, then hell, that’s a peculiar way to see things. Rather than waiting for a response, she follows suit in Ellie’s indulgence, feeling the cinnamon’s kick and cloves intertwine themselves. “Holy crap, this reminds me of that fucking cinnamon challenge.” One cough, before another one kicks right after, finding themselves teetering back-and-forth on whether they like it or not. “I think if there’s less cinnamon, more citrus peel, might be a high contender,” Outwardly thinking their thoughts, grabbing a pen to jot down the ideas before focusing entirely on her trusted companion. “I want different, you know? Like, I love the fruity route of sangria’s frequently go down, but I want a drink that has a kick and that’s multipurpose in terms of seasons. I want to be the first one in continuing to break the barriers.”

outside cleo’s business office on APRIL 29TH. around one in the afternoon.

closed starter for cleo halliwell — @cleohalliwell​​.

Throughout his career as a golf player, Gabriel had done many endorsements and campaigns. Her mother had been especially impossible and embarrassing about them, especially when it came to his one time Sports Illustrated cover, because truth be told, nobody really cared about golf players. It was something that came with the trade and Gabriel still was camera shy.

He couldn’t lie and say that he wasn’t surprised to have been invited to pose for Cleo’s jewelry line with her as his counterpart. He had known Cleo since they were kids, with their families being so intertwined and even if he didn’t know the blonde personally, he would know who she was, after all, a lot of her life had been held in the public eye, and he couldn’t help but find it funny how different that was from Ava, like two sides of two completely different coins. The meeting had gone well, it wasn’t even a matter of him accepting or not at this point, but a matter of going over the details, such as when it would be best for them to make the photoshoot, since at least for the next couple of weeks, Gabriel wouldn’t be able to take off his arm sling. After everything but the official date had been settled, the more business people started standing up and saying their goodbyes, Gabriel stayed behind, engaged in conversation with the blonde, as they walked to the outside of her building.

“So, does this Halliwell lunch?” He asked when they came to a stop, his good hand tucked inside of the front pocket of his jeans as he looked down at her. Even in her business heel, she was still some good inches smaller than him. “You know, I’m doing the whole going shirtless for your audience, the least you can do is buy me lunch.”

♚

Any opportunity possible to widen their portfolio, Cleo takes the leap in committing with little-to-no-hesitant. It may not come across as logical or ideal, given others have to be convinced through a plethora of meetings or storyboards. But with her, the best project outcomes are the ones that happened in the spur of the moment. Further making sense about this latest endeavor the blonde got themselves involved in, an exclusive jewelry line produced through Cabot and Co (her mother’s business), as a ‘pre-celebration’ gift to her first blood borns birthday in July, though ideally using the models in hire to broaden the market and get ahead of the game in releasing unisex products.

Hence why Cleo sat there across from Gabriel Livingston, a familiarity in terms of his association with Ava and their family, sweetening the deal about his involvement as much as possible. Anything he wanted, she’ll snap her fingers and make sure he gets it. It happens due to their authoritative nature, but simply because she wants him involved with the modeling process. Not only would it benefit him after everything she’s come to learn, stabilizing his feet following his car accident and the visible sight of his arm in the slung, but subtly use this opportunity to take the risk in sticking out her neck for him because someone had to do it. And, if there’s one thing the blonde knows, the gigantic male opposite of her, is an essential figure in her sisters life and it’s never in Cleo’s cards to dispirit Ava.

So as an agreement came to life, she finished off the afternoon with a shake of their hands with the higher-ups, informing them how enraptured this opportunity happens to be. Not for her, but for them, almost like Gabe and her have been doing deals their entire life. They haven’t, though. Yet, peculiarly enough, it felt nice to do something for someone else. Taking an additional moment to think about everything, her azure optics return to the documents sitting in place as they neatly collect and place them in the beige folder labeled ‘CABOT AND CO ─ CLEO & GABE’. It will find it’s way to her assistants desk to transfer the documents online, but first fundamental step in getting that done is having all paperwork in a safe place.

As she steps out from the conference room, the sight of Gabe lingering around captures her curiosity. Careful, heeled steps across the floor, he proposes a question that makes an uncharacteristic beam blossom. “Of course this Halliwell does,” she jests, craning a neck to catch the whole view of him, “You don’t even know how much I can eat, let alone how much of a sucker I am for any and every dessert possible.” Which may not be widenly know, something the blonde keeps to herself as it’s usually a form of her indulgence after a victorious day or week. She’s never been afraid in letting others see her eat ─ making it known they’re human being, after all. Azure hues rolling playfully into the back of her head, the bridge of their nose scrunches. “You know I’ll be posing with you, right? So we’ll both be ‘technically’ shirtless.” Cleo in a nude bra, but besides the point, giving the topic a firm shake of their locks.

“Anyways, where would you like to go, Mr. Gabriel? Consider no budget in the equation for this favor you’re doing me.”

His brows knit together at her question, and he did not bother to answer upon that first statement. Nice, yes. Still, it did not make her presence any less intimidating, even Thomas sometimes forgot the full power of Cleo’s effect, although always quite amusing to watch. “Yes, I  mean is what we often call charity.” He says, gathering some of the papers that were laying on his desk and put inside the folder Cleo has bought along with her. A few signatures here and there, then he was done. “But,” he turns around to pour a glass of water before taking a seat on at the leather couch in the living space of his office. “not when you give them money for personal gain or in exchange for something… then, that’s just bribery.” It was just a playful a joke, of course. One that made Thomas’ lips curl upward into a smile, and not because he has clean his schedule for the rest of the week with the excuse of helping a friend, he was sure did not need one.

But of course, he imagined Cleo’s visit wasn’t without a purpose, not one of this magnitude and in the middle of the day during working hours. At first, he imagined it had something to do with her own company, it got him hopeful for a minute, Thomas’ was not one to lie and say it hasn’t crossed his mind to bring his friend as an asset to his portfolio ─ especially now, and operating at this side of the country. “Well ─,” he raises a finger in the air but lips who were partially open to carry with the rest of the sentence, shut and curled into a sly smile when they mention his love life. Not that there was much to say, a date, an ex-girlfriend, some other dates and that was it. Yet, the last thing he expected to roll off their lips, making Thomas’ expression change completely, at the mention of the old reality show. “A lot.” It was his instant response, almost like a reflex. He could have said ‘no’ straight ahead, but he did not want the risk of the conversation to end so abruptly. “You know I’m camera shy, and the idea of seeing you beg for something is also amusing.” He explains. “I’m looking forward to seeing what I can get from this deal. Do I get my own trailer? Free Starbucks? Golfing cars to get to shooting spots? Hooking up with one of the old crew members? That’s good TV.” Apparently, he forgot the basics. The first rule of negotiation? Never tell them what you want.

♚

Undisturbed and relatively collected features observe the near companion in the authoritative space that isn’t her own. Others would be intimidated, fidgeting in their stance in the surroundings that aren’t familiar to them, but there’s a particular peculiar sense of equanimity consuming the blonde now. If there’s one person who can roll with the punches, such as allowing Cleo to take pull jurisdiction of this interrupted meeting or answer the jovial remarks about paying off one of the temp’s, it’s Thomas. So, as they proceed to beat around the sole purpose of her arrival for another moment longer, his words cause an instant huff and roll of azure optics into the back of the head. It may sound like she’s insulted by such association. Moreso, for the reason in usual Cleo fashion, no reaction remains faltered to something so minimal, as they always prefer to be out of this world and to entertain where others fail. “Perhaps,” Songbird falsetto hums in due course, hues tampering in size toward Thomas’s seated direction before she shakes the curled locks. “But, I think we both know this isn’t Undercover Boss, and I have no intention in ruining that poor girl’s life for the greater good of your business.” Someone else could do that. “I merely just wanted to have an excuse to surprise you in a way that isn’t conventual because that’s boring,” she points out with pursed lips.

Though, Cleo isn’t here to talk about the fifty dollars she randomly gave. It happened because it was a spur of the moment, and like she stated last, add a flavorful element to what’s generally a boring way to say hello. The purpose is about business and the opportunities that could fall into his lap if he were to get out of his comfort zone by showing his face on the television screen. They wouldn’t be sitting here and ready to sweeten a deal if Cleo thought this reality series would only be successful for her. While her face may be known at the end of the day, using the high of Saint Catalina to grow her brand, this revival can give others deserve a chance to achieve greatness, though only if they accept it. And if there’s someone worthy of taking hold of the industry, it’s the man opposite of her now. Waiting for a clearance to talk, she hung on by each of his words as a soft smile finds itself toward the end of it all. “Incredible list you compiled there.” And she meant it, though there’s a slight drizzle of sarcasm woven through. However, it doesn’t last long. Solemnity inches upon their features, leaning against the leather couch as her head tilts to the side, observing him but using the quietude to build upon the unpredictability arriving: “You thought long and hard about basic necessities, but not the long-term deal, Thomas. Scratch my back, and I’ll scratch yours, another fundamental rule of negotiation,” she informs in a straightforward tone, “I’m willing to discuss the opportunity of you getting your hands on my business.”

Cleo always exuded a sense of confidence that Ellie wished existed in herself. Acting, was what she excelled at. Including pretending to be self-assertive before blinding lights and flashing cameras. An imposter. The brunette often thought herself to be, but very few managed to witness that side of her. That version of herself was sealed tightly shut in a proverbial box, only to be unlocked when certain insecurity or tragedy came attacking her in full force. No, in this moment, she wasn’t unhappy. Her sunny disposition was nothing but genuine. But there were days when the clouds were darker and her mood shared the same sentiment. So she always did what she was good at, portraying a version of herself that people liked to surround themselves with. With her friend’s exposure to the spotlight, she knew they would somewhat understand the feeling just the same. 

But business aside, tonight was a joyous occasion. As the soft score played in the background, the familiarity of it all brought a gentle smile upon her lips, wandering further into the backyard as her hazel hues surveyed her surroundings. Cleo had a great taste, and Ellie supposed that was one of the many reasons why it made her business successful, or rather the successful career she led already. “You know, maybe it might do you some good if you’re wrong on the off chance,” She said in jest, her smile widened into a grin to indicate she was being all but serious. “I dread to think what it must be like to work for you.” Chuckling, she shook her head in thought. Her comment didn’t intend to be an insult, of course, as her friend’s assertiveness was what made her a great businesswoman. In Hollywood, Ellie’s bosses was ever changing depending on the project she was working on at the time. But ultimately she wondered if that position fell to her agent. At least, with his controlling manner, it seemed like he had more authority over her life nonetheless. “Well, unfortunately for you, I have no details for you right now. What can I say, I’m dating and suddenly everyone wants to know every detail of it. Can’t we just leave it at I’m dating?”

Following suit, Ellie took the empty seat before Cleo as her eyes scanned over the plethora plates of food before them once again. One thing for sure, was that the pair of them was not going to be able to stomach all of this on their own. But it was better than drinking on an empty stomach anyway. “I know you do, which is why I think owning a business is perfect for you. You’d cut all the bullshit anyway. Have you thought about being an agent? You know, you might be good at that too.” But their attentions were finally turned to the purpose of their meeting tonight. The sangrias alone looked pleasant enough to her, and while her family owned a winery, she actually was no connoisseur at these things. As long as they tasted nice enough to her, then there would be no complaints slipping from her lips. “Hm,” She pursed her lips as she mulled over for the description for a moment. “Sounds…spicy. In a good way, but it can be an acquired taste to some people. Unique enough that people will be interested, but it only works if it tastes good too. So do I get to try them or what?”

♚

You know, maybe it might do you some good if you’re wrong on the off chance ─ a statement that Cleo has, unfortunately, heard one too many times in the years. Regarding their dynamic and future potential of them becoming sisters-in-law, the blonde can see right through the other that it’s a quip. Though, one would be foolish to let such a statement come off as an offense. Not with her, though. So it only makes sense for her response to be rather goodly: azure optics rolling back into their head as a hearty laugh fills the atmosphere ─ tagging along in the lighthearted nature they’re submerged in. “Ha ha ha, you’re a comedian, Ellie. Has anyone told you should try stand up?” If anyone were to pass by the pair of women and hear these remarks, they would assume the comments were meant to jab the other profusely: over and over again. But no, that’s not how either one of them rolls, as things always come out in hefty dramatics and laborious jest. Though, the ensuing interject causes their chapstick petals to purse, head tilting to the side with slight tampering of her azure hues, “Hey now, I’m a fantastic boss. If you ever want to see me in action, just come by the office one day, and you’ll see the magic,” she corrects calmly and collectively with a soft beam, “And by magic, my team and the evident sight of how lost I would be without them. If anything, I adjust my life and business around them.”

That’s the thing about Cleo ─ they may be the face of the business, products, and one at fault if things go wrong, such as a failure in a particular product. An infinite amount of praise is given to those who make the work happen behind the scenes and make things possible. None of this, the sangria testing, in particular, wouldn’t have been possible for that matter. She knows it, as does everyone else in the company. However, before the laser focus of the task at hand penetrates all the female’s airy declarations, Ellie’s statement brings an influx of disbelief with brow’s furrowing together, silence rare in concept, and perspicacity intertwining. For someone who found themselves in a relationship, whether in the industry or privately, cutting the point in half and making it seem like it isn’t a big deal is all more concerning from their perspective. As the hostess for the eve, swallowing the topic entirely is the only alternative left, surprisingly knowing what it’s like to shut up.

Now resting comfortably in the hand-picked outdoor furniture, underneath a void of black with tidbits of illuminated sprinkles, is a glorious feeling after a workday that wore them down. “No, I haven’t thought about that,” she admits with a shake of the bleached locks, accepting the flattery instantaneously. “But, if I ever get tired of being a self-made entrepreneur and want to ruff up some feathers, or faces for that matter, I’ll take this career change suggestion wholeheartedly.” Affable timbre escapes from their soprano range, making sure a quick wink is shot toward the other. Enough to let Ellie’s suggestion mean something, though the likelihood may be improbable. If a change of career were to happen, she’d take part in the family business. A chuckle passes, beginning to pour the spice-flavored sangria to the halfway point in both glasses. “I did say in our messages it’s a sampling, yeah?” Inquisitive brow shot upward as she gently slides the glass in her direction. “So, let the evening of intoxication and serious decision making begin.”

One might believed that Evelyn Halliwell’s controlling nature would have ultimately drove a rift between the Halliwell sisters. After all, Ava strayed away from the natural inheritance to be in line to take after the family business, and instead, the brunette inherited the funeral home. That responsibility did not fall to Cleo, however, because her sister knew better than to be told what to by the pair that had hardly been proper parental figures to their daughters. The fault with her slightly strained relationships with their other sisters was probably hers, considering she left for New York without a second glance over her shoulders, leaving them to the wrath of her father and stepmother. But the elder sisters were free, in some aspect because they remained grounded to their own beliefs. Even when she didn’t know what her end goal was. But her freedom came at a cost, and her younger sister knew just as much as the small group of people she allowed into her world after many years of shutting everyone out. There was one name they would both not utter now that her late husband was buried six feet under, nor the tragic accident that diverted Cleo’s dreams to become a ballerina either. But it wasn’t as though fate didn’t treat them well, considering the position they both found themselves to be in right now. 

A poised brow raised at Cleo’s response, surprised to hear that they felt the same sentiment as she did regarding the cheesiness of the decorative decision. Her sister had always been someone, in her eyes, that had her laser sharp gaze on the present and future, not the past. But the knowledge of that alone warmed her heart nonetheless, perhaps it was a Halliwell trait to appreciate nostalgia ever so often, even if it didn’t seem obvious that members of their family would ever do. “Do you want to keep some of these?” She waved the stack of photographs in her hand at the space between them. “Or I can make copies of any you didn’t have already.” Warm brown hues fell to the memories in her hand once again, their bright smiles reflecting back at her was enough for a fond smile to form, before laughter spilled over her lips at their remark. “Uh, if that’s the case, then maybe I need more of that, thank you very much.” The last year alone felt like a few years of her life had been knocked out of her, and she wondered if she really, truly lived in the remainder of the last decade either. “I mean, I’m kind of putting Rory in charge of that, but I know he’ll want my input too.” To be frank, the interior design of their home wasn’t so much of a priority for as long as she was able to call a place with Rory home, as cheesy as that sounded. “I do want to bring a part of this place to our new place though.” She added, meaning the Spanish influence of this place. 

“Please, I try to stray away from the country club if I’m not needed there.” Her nose wrinkled in thought, considering most of the time Ava turned up to the establishment was upon Evelyn’s request or for some island event that she rarely had any interest for. “I mean, you have a bat with you as well, so I’m sure you can cover your own ass if you get into trouble, right?” A mischievous grin surfaced as she continued. “Do you think those evidence would be at the family home more than anything else? I really wish we can burn them before any more family gatherings.” Not to mention the potentiality of her boyfriend and his family witnessing her most embarrassing moments either. But those words were left unsaid, just like the impromptu proposal from Rory too. In due course, those matters would be discussed, but like the task of clearing out her belongings today, she was prolonging them for as long as she could. She knew deep down, Cleo probably knew that the packing would be completed by now if she put her heart to it. Which was exactly why she needed her sister’s assistance right now. “I don’t know what you’re talking about,” She feigned obliviousness for a moment. “I’m pretty good at keep a tight lip on these kind of things, so I’ll just leave that up to your imaginations now.” Grinning, she nodded lightly as she listened to them. “Oh? How’s that going? Is it ready for launch yet? You know, if you ever need any help, you can always ask me. You know I won’t say no to sangrias.”

♚

In peculiar intervals, specifically in the wee hours of the morning when sleep finds no integration with their body, Cleo lies awake in wonder over what kind of mother she’ll be. Or if becoming a parent will ever be in their future. The blonde knows these concerns stimulate to the surface due to a few external factors: age, her sister settling down again, but the biggest supplier of these enclosed insecurities is the one and only, Evelyn Halliwell. Everyone knows the matriarch of the Halliwell household is a woman Cleo shares one too many similarities with. Though some traits aren’t a disadvantage, especially having the drive to work and fight for what they rightfully deserve, but witnessing the disinterested approach firsthand frightens the blonde on a regular. It’s one thing to thank a parent for particular genes, her laser-sharp jawline, but it’s another thing to assume she’ll end up a striking image of the matriarch and be the worst mother possible. Hence, anytime Evelyn pressures the eldest Halliwell girls about finding a forever and widening the family bloodline, Cleo reticulates in a fight. The last thing she wants is to admit that she panic-stricken once, in all of the thirty-something years on this planet, and it may be beyond her control.

Rather than allowing this consumption of thoughts and the sparse parental image of the four of them at Cleo’s university graduation to indicate something’s bothering them, the blonde digs further to preoccupy and avoid any genuine concerns. Though, Ava knows her too well. Enough to the point where the statement about keeping some of the pictures comes with a poised brow just as the blonde tilts their head back for a moment ─ not because they regret speaking up and letting nostalgia overtake, but to think of the pictures they have in the Avalon apartment. “You can make me a few copies,” she states dryly, “I need the graduation picture, Christmas from ‘07, both of our debutante balls ─” Pausing, her head returns to its normal level eye level before azure hues tamper due to laborious thought. “Do we have one in the stack with all four of us?” By all four of them, the second eldest meant the sisters. “And I think that should be all,” Songbird falsetto concludes, taking a moment to look at their sister before deciding the fate of the item in her possession. She can see the mirth expression upon Ava’s face, and it’s a worthy sight after all of this time. But, it wouldn’t be a Cleo moment if they didn’t interject the moment with a sharp remark, “The way you speak about interior decorating with your beau almost makes me want to have this for my future.” Which is nonexistent currently, but it doesn’t hurt to imagine an innocent possibility for the future.

Nevertheless, their conversation sweeps gracefully into its next topic, instant in causing a peal of laughter to escape their mouth, all because of Cleo and her love for those baseball bats. The interest in collecting bats is a peculiar one. As it frequently received perplexed looks when the blonde explained it’s their form of trophies and medals. Though, the rational thinking on their behalf knows these items she’s collected is helpful for protection in the unpredictable, dangersome world. It’s merely killing two birds with one stone. “Can you believe how long I’ve had some of these bats?” The first one she collected was after the first year of filming Saint Catalina. “All of the questionable looks I’ve received all over the years about my choice of collecting, yet now… those people who probably judged me wish they were on my level and were as inventive as I am,” she hums in remembrance. A laborious shift causes solemnity to settle upon the younger woman to guide her sister in the right direction of having possession of her pageant photos once and for all. “But, your pictures are probably at home ─ in the attic, most likely.” Which has become Evelyn’s go-to storage location due to their mother’s recent interest in remodeling the Halliwell Estate. Now pulling out a ragged blanket, no life in its current existence, she throws it into the trash pile. “Oh, I asked your future sister-in-law to help me narrow down on flavors. Poor girl needed to have a little bit of fun,” she says in a soft smile, tucking a loose lock before continuing: “However, f you want to help me with planning a release party, I wouldn’t say no. I should know the expected release date in the next week, week and a half, at the latest.”

Similar to a reaction Milena would have towards those that were famous or she had known in the industry because of it, she found herself in a thin line between walking on eggshells and not really knowing how to feel close to them. Exchanging words with Cleo, from what she was capable of remembering had always been part of that category. In fact, part of herself wished she would still know where her cousin was and that none of this had happened. Yet, she chose to wear a sympathetic smile, offering her attention to them and, finally, responding to their words. “I hardly come here and when I finally decide to, this is what happens. I was trying to head outside, get some fresh air and stay away from the crowd, but–” She stopped her sentence, cut by her dark hues noticing her cousin with someone else. Well, at least, the young woman was enjoying her night out, Milena wouldn’t be the one to restrain her from doing so. 

And perhaps that was the main reason why, without further notice, Lena found herself exchanging out loud. “You can join me if you’d like to. Unless you want to stay here with people bumping against you all the time and the possibility that they’ll ruin your outfit, unlike the odds that were in our favor when it happened between us,” and from what Milena was able to see, it was a beautiful outfit. Expected when talking about Cleo. But those words Lena kept to herself, at least, something she was able to keep to herself since the invitation was already out in the open. “And don’t worry about the idea of me going out there to smoke or something, because I don’t.” Trying to keep her balance her heels stood still against the floor and people were constantly walking around them, Milena waited for an answer before deciding if she’d continue her path by herself or not. Or if there was a plan c that she hadn’t been able to envision by then.

♚

It takes a moment, or two, to collect themselves as sharpened features fall to a place of neutrality and their posture loosens up. There’s no point in either one of them dancing around the inevitable, especially knowing that Milena is living on the isle. Unfortunately, sooner than later, their paths would’ve crossed. There’s a partisan advantage to the evening as Le Rouge blares the music to enthusiastic people upon the dance floor, and everyone is packed like sardines, as eventually, they’ll return to their perspective parties. However, it doesn’t seem to be a likelihood in the upcoming seconds, for that matter. So what better way to kill time? Indulge in a compulsory conversation causes the blonde to learn about the other’s infrequent visit to this establishment. The same could be said on her behalf ─ but she refuses to disclose this information.  “Ah,” The singular word slips from their confines, pressing a soft expression upon the nude coated petals. “I suppose it’s a lesson learned for next time, huh? Make sure to come when all of the hardcore partygoers go to Los Angeles rather than staying back.”

But, in expected curiosity, she can’t help but ponder why tonight, of all evenings, did the known partygoers decide to remain on the isle with fleeting nightlife. Supposed, if she cared that much, Cleo would’ve gone around and questioned. However, she’s not here to investigate but to have fun ─ rare in its occurrence due to work capturing her fixation. One way to have fun is with alcoholic beverages, which will work in itself to flag down the bartenders to order three Margarita Punches. So right as her hand is ready to snap attention, Milena’s offer snaps her head in the brunette’s direction as perplexity settles in an upward motion on their face. “I….” Stammering tone enters into the air, just as her chin glances over their shoulder. All of the bodies and the potential risk of heat climbing to the surface could impact a severe panic attack if they continue to overthink these observations now. Azure optics fall upon their acquaintance, knowing it’s the only situation ideal for the circumstances erupting. “... Okay yeah, I like this idea a lot,” Cleo agrees effortlessly after what felt like a century. There’s no other suitable choice and they both know it. Using the quick moment to adjust the purse strap on her shoulder, a vaulted brow is sent to the other. “I’m ready so.....” An abrupt pause as lips purse, “Go leader.”