#isaval

In the red corner, perching on her bed, a peacock turned bird of prey, clenching Isabel’s loosened hair into fistfuls of blonde tumbleweeds, coming into the ring with her usual poker-hot spoken sucker punches, it’s Valentina Furi. “Why should I care about curfew? We’re literally in my room.” Then, under her breath, “Sure would be nice if you were out of my room.”

In the middle of it all: Isabel Armstrong, sitting on the floor a few inches from Val’s feet, newly saddled with the unbearable brunt of Layla and Valentina’s brewing fight. You know, Val’s been dumping shampoos and scrubs and general slews of unpronounceable hair-shining sludge on her all afternoon, and those layers are barely providing enough protection to keep the whole back-and-forth from exploding her eardrums.

Sure, the pair of them have always been all gung-ho about doing things the right way, a.k.a. their way, which is a trait Isabel’s pretty familiar with, herself. Sure, Valentina dragging Isabel into her room on a pretense where physical contact would make sense is something that’s been happening a lot, lately. Sure, Layla dragging Isabel into the library to powerslam her with knowledge is something that’s also been happening a lot, lately, despite Isabel’s very best attempts at convincing Layla that any double-digit grade is the best she expects.

Hell if Isabel can ever be sure how they’re arguing about hairstyling algebra.

Nerds. Aliens, really.

As the match (Layla: STUTTER SPLUTTER DOOR LOCKS) of verbal sparring persists (Valentina: GROAN EXPLETIVE AVA’S LOCKPICKING), Isabel considers her options.

On one hand, alone time with Val is in way short supply. Also, she still hasn’t figured how to win whatever game they’re playing now, with her being stuck on the floor and Val being awful secretive about her progress. (Layla: DIRECTION PRESCRIPTION REGULAR POLYGONS NERVOUS LAUGH) For all she knows, Cinder’s hiding beneath Val’s bedframe, branding her scalp with the Furi monogram as punishment for… something. (Valentina: SNARK SETTING TRENDS NAME-DROP LOW BLOW) But Isabel knows, deep in her gut, she and Val have the potential to be something; if she stays with Val, lets her fix a split end or a few thousand, then—who knows, you know? They could stop dancing ‘round something like the dumb kids they were at the Fairy Moon Ball. Stop using code like undone hair, excuses like contests without a finish line.

Stop Isabel’s worrying she’s dead last in a race Val might not even be in.

Plus, Val’s face when she saw Isabel’s hair had grown to her waist? Yeah, no, that’s something she’s gotta burn in her memory.

On the other hand, Layla did ask for her time first. With a question instead of an order, too. (Layla: LONGWORDLONGWORDLONGWORD) Maybe she asked when Isabel’d been three-fourths-asleep and she’d already written a whole curriculum for tonight’s study sesh in one of her many colour-coded binders with zero consideration as to Isabel saying no, but she asked. Politely, firmly, firstly. (Valentina: AUDIBLE EYE ROLL DEMANDING INTERROGATIVE) This was the thing about teammates—

A sharp sigh from Layla snaps Isabel out her funk. “I am here because Isabel agreed to be tutored tonight.”

And sends her straight back into the spiral. Agreed’s a real load-bearer in that sentence. Then, Isabel locks eyes with Layla, who is finally, finally managing to look as tall as she is in the face of a Furi’s… well, fury, and silently agrees Valentina oughtta learn that later. Layla presses on, lips pressed all Ms-Furi-like. “We have a biology test this Friday, remember?”

“Oh, please, I could catch her up on every chapter we’re covering in my sleep. Without making her fall asleep, by the way, as your instruction seems to do so well—"

Layla scoffs. Valentina pauses. Isabel facepalms. And here she’d been hoping that the brightest bulbs in Unicorn Academy could’ve learned something from their dorm’s last set of screaming matches.

Eh. Just one of many reasons she’s never really been in the same weight class as them, brain-wise.

Ow, ow, ow. And she won’t ever be a contender, brain-wise, if Val keeps taking the ends of her hair like they’re the toughest reins she’s ever tugged on. “Are you saying Furis aren’t natural-born teachers?” 

“I’m saying that your priorities currently lie elsewhere,” Layla replies, cool as ice. “Also, how is it my fault that Isabel would rather run a triathon than go to bed at a reasonable hour?”

“Hey!” Isabel interrupts. The other two look at her. Nice to know they know she’s in the room, honestly. And she can’t say Layla’s wrong about either Val’s intentions or Isabel’s dedicated training routine, but she can try rerouting her roommate to a wonderful place far, far away where her newly grown spine won’t give Isabel a bald patch. “You guys wanna break the harmony bond again? Man, just let Val do her thing.”

Valentina’s iron grip loosens at last. Isabel whips her head around for two reasons: first, to confirm all of Valentina’s yanking haven’t paralysed her from the neck up; second, to wipe a big, smug smirk off Valentina’s face. “And you — lay off Layla, so she can do her thing and gimme the crash course on cellular perspiration.”

“Respiration,” comes a prompt correction, courtesy of two voices.

A blink. “Uh, duh. I knew that. You just heard me wrong ‘cause of all your yelling.” Neither speaker nor listeners are convinced this is the truth. Isabel sighs, then turns to face Layla again. “Okay, Coach, ready to listen and learn.”

“But Valentina isn’t doing her thing correctly, which I believe is why you are neither listening nor learning.”

Valentina freezes. “Excuse me?”

Isabel facepalms again, leaving just enough space between her fingers to see if Layla’s fainted yet. Was this how everyone else felt when she stirred shit with Val? God, maybe Ava had a point with all her mushy friendship bracelet stuff. Food for thought, assuming the sharp chemical scent from all Val’s bubbly hair care stuff hasn’t eaten her neuroses alive.

Layla’s buried her face in her textbook, as if its gilded pages can protect her from whatever wildfire’s burning through Val’s throat right this second. She gulps enough air to last her to the bottom of the ocean. Then, off to the races. “You comb her hair with your fingers even though you have several brushes at your disposal, which suggests you don’t trust your own styling products enough to execute your vision, which is surprising, given your frequent bragging about brand names. You keep undoing your, well, minimal progress whenever Isabel speaks, which implies you would rather hear her voice than accomplish the task at hand, which is, for you, and for lack of a better term, very weird. And, even though Isabel’s ponytails don’t exactly call for microscopic precision due to their diameter, you get so close to her scalp, it almost looks like you’re sniffing it–”

“Hey, remember your cute little ice cave? The one Cinder will make a slushy the second I tell him to?”

Water off Layla’s back. “You’re capable of fixing Rory’s braids in less than five minutes. All you need to do now, so that Isabel can get an education and you can get your beauty sleep, is stop getting distracted by…” She squints at Valentina and (a happily uneducated) Isabel, takes a moment to think through all her hypotheses. Very wrong hypotheses, hopefully. Isabel holds her breath. “Her usage of unicorn shampoo?”

“I get that sleeping a few feet away from her might’ve broken your nose, but it’s really difficult for those of us that do to ignore the whole barnyard musk thing. Unless you’re secretly using Mister Tansy’s lab equipment to make human shampoo she’ll actually use, you’ll let me fix her braids, however long that takes, and you’ll let me do it tonight.” Composed commentator Valentina makes a spectacular return, rambling on and on and on, letting Isabel’s brain turn off. Back to sneering, for her, back to acting like there isn’t another reason they want some private time, for them. The conga line of justifications falls off her tongue with ease, tone distantly pissed, the way it would be if the dwerpins cooked her oatmeal a minute too long, far from the way Isabel thinks it should be if tonight was supposed to be another d—

Isabel exhales.

Huffs, actually, if she’s being honest. Which is something Valentina might never be, when it comes to the stuff that matters. Which is something she could’ve figured out sooner, probably, if not for all the concussions.

The sooner she accepts that revelation from Captain Obvious, the sooner she can focus on stuff that matters to her. Like setting up healthy competition with her hundred per cent platonic archnemesis, or figuring out a new reason to blow off Layla’s lectures.

But, like, riling up Val’s mattered to her for a long while now, so she smiles a tight smile and mutters, “Here I was thinking I was special.”

Valentina smacks the back of her scalp. “Are you kidding me? I only fixed Cloud Boy’s braids because he’d somehow gotten all the gum he’d wanted to put on my heels in his own hair. This is obviously different.”

In spite of herself (and the slight sting of that slap), Isabel wants to hear her out. Easier said than done, with her traitorous ears being flushed to hell and back. Val presses on— “Let’s just say there’s a reason I wanted to do this in private.” —pauses; flushes, too— “And still want to do this in private, if you do.”

Something about the way she says that last part brightens a bulb above Isabel’s head. A smirk lights up her face as she spins around, the response on her tongue let out lowly and slowly. “So that is what you meant by your hair is literally painful to look at, let me fix it tonight, or else.”

Balked in her ear, in that exact voice: “That is so not how my voice sounds.”

“Whatever you say. Could’a just asked me out like a normal person, you know. I would’ve said—”

Layla shuts her book with a jump-worthy thump. “Look, I have no idea what you’re whispering about, but for the sake of your enrollment, I hope it can wait until Saturday. This test is worth 0.5 percent of our total grade. Isabel, that could be the difference between a D and a C for you.”

Tempting offer. Before Isabel can respond (she isn’t sure she can respond, really, without crushing Layla’s heart like gym chalk in her complete and utter contentedness with scoring anything above an F-), Val leans in close. It’s almost romantic, the brush of warm breath against skin. Almost, because she hisses like a spitfire: “Would you get her out of here?”

“Aw, a question instead of an order,” Isabel deflects. Funny how quick Valentina Furi can get snuffed out by plain ol’ Val, on occasion. “Next thing you know, you’ll be sayin’ please and thank you.”

Her optimism is rewarded with a shove from a hair dryer straight to the muscled back. Isabel stands up with a perfunctory snicker. What? In Layla terms, it’s basically another law of the metaphysical universe: most of the time, Valentina knows best. Most of the time, Valentina is really annoying about knowing best, sometimes to the point of making things worse, but when it comes to throwing people out her room and leaving zero wiggle room for their return… yeah, Isabel’s gonna go with her judgement on this one. Even if that judgement is, like, as judgmental as humanly possible.

Arriving at the doorway, cocking her head to the side, “Yo, come with me a sec.”

They take their leave under the heat of Valentina’s laser vision, the hurricane shot out the hair dryer at their hinds. Isabel brings a hand up to the back of her neck, picking long strands away from sweaty skin. Hand’s clammy, too, so beats her, if that even worked. Hour’s swallowed the hall in darkness, dashed by some faint blue and yellow lights further out. Good. Makes it harder to read Layla’s expression as they exit.

“I take it you’ve finally decided to join me in exploring the beautiful world of cellular biology.” Layla grins. Not hard enough, apparently. “A very smart decision.”

“That I am not making.”

The grin drops. “Are—are you being serious?” A very good question. Just one she’s not getting an answer to. “Let’s reiterate, you would risk a possible failing grade to get your hair done? And by Valentina, who, need I remind you, spends most of her time either pulling your hair out or indirectly making you pull your hair out?”

“Look, I appreciate you calling it a possible failing grade.” Isabel pinches the bridge of her nose. Half of her hopes the pressure’ll break it. Pool of blood would get her out of explaining the electromagnetic properties of Val’s identity crisis between sparring partner and secret softie hairdresser. “And no offence, but this is the first time Val’s, like, invited me into her room with a temp below one million Fahrenheit, and I’m not throwing away this shot just to bump my grade up to something without a minus. Dude, this is big. Proves things between her and I have been heating up for real.”

“Her and me.” A reflexive correction. A retrospective sputter. “Wait, what do you mean heating up? Human-to-human transmission of Cornicove Fever has never been recorded, and its incubation period is far too short—”

Isabel tsks, turns Layla around by the tense shoulders. “Forget it. C’mon, roomie, you’ll have way more fun at the library without some dummy like me asking you why cells do aerobics. Val just needs me tonight.” Could be the other way around. Could be another way around. Only one way to find out, Isabel figures, and Layla’s standing in the way of it. Over her shoulder, flippantly, “Copy your notes at breakfast, cool?” And she’s almost broken out into a sprint back through the hall when—

“You should know,” Layla blurts out. “I’d originally planned on tutoring Ava this evening.”

Just what Isabel needed: another reason to feel bad for the girl who’d taken it upon herself to drag everyone in Sapphire Dorm to graduation. She skids to a halt. Sucks air through her teeth, sympathetic. “She bailed too?”

“For a picnic with Sophia. What do you think they’re up to now?” Flex of Layla’s fingers against her book—four taps, quick succession. “Braiding each other’s hair as well, perhaps?”

In the nick of time, Isabel’s saved all the trouble of thinking by Rory, top half in black-and-yellow uniform, bottom half decked in heart-dotted boxers, both halves endangering all of the dorm’s decor as he shows off an essay (its title almost as large as its truly impressive grade of EMERGING) while still half-wearing a fluffy sleep mask. All these years, Isabel’s still not sure where he sleeps, if he sleeps. Doesn’t matter, really. Important thing is Isabel’s sure he needs Layla’s help a lot more than she does. She leaves Layla with a pat on the back, some recommendation she test how long Glacier can freeze a person in time right now, and makes her great escape.

Back at the doorway. She tries to shake some loose hair out her face. Fails. Tries to ignore the quirk of Val’s lips. Fails.

“I hope that,” Valentina says, “Didn’t ruin this.”

“Nah, you grouching at my roommate and kicking me out to kick her out was real cute.” Isabel says, sliding next to her on the bed. If the last few minutes have been any indication, waiting for an invitation with this girl was just waiting for trouble to interrupt. “So was the offer to fix my hair. Or else.”

“I meant that I needed to fix the crime against eyesight that was your hair," Val says. Doesn’t pass by Isabel, that she’s started avoiding eye contact. "Nothing else.”

“Your priorities sure look like they’re lying elsewhere right now.”

“Stop talking that way.”

And they were back to the orders instead of questions. Nice while it lasted. Two steps forward and such. Besides, Isabel’s figured out a couple ways to level the playing field, whenever Val wanted to escape the moment on her high horse.

The next day Valentina was in class with some other students. They were whispering about something. Val looked over. “Hey, do your work! We have a reputation to uphold, remember?” she snapped. “Woah calm down Valentina. Haven’t you heard the latest news?” Val turned around fully now. “Someone saw Isabel kissing the new student!” Val’s eyes widened. Isabel? She wouldn’t do that. Even if something happened, Isabel would tell me right? Valentina turned back to her work. She couldn’t assume anything. She tried doing her work but couldn’t focus. Everywhere Val went, all she could hear about was the Isabel-Sammi thing. One student even said “Oh that’s cute!”, this made Valentina’s blood boil. She had to find Isabel right now. Back at the dorms Val was pacing left and right. She looked up at the clock. When would Isabel come? The other Sapphires entered. Val turned quickly. “Val… we heard what happened,” said Sophia slowly. “Isabel wouldn’t do that!” protested Ava. “Yeah, she’s very loyal,” said Layla. “Not to mention but she likes you… like a LOT,” said Rory, extending his arms out to show the amount. 

Val continued pacing again. “I know, I know. I don’t want to assume anything but why hasn’t she told me yet? Yesterday, Sammi came to talk to her privately but when Isabel came back she was normal!” She then plopped down on the couch, running her fingers through her hair. The others looked at her and sat down by her. “Maybe she thought it would hurt your feelings?” said Rory slowly. “I would rather have her be HONEST with me?” said Val a little louder now. “I’m sure Isabel will talk about it with you soon,” said Sophia, placing a hand on her shoulder. “Isabel wouldn’t hide it,” said Layla. Ava gave Val a hug and they all left.

Isabel finally came back from her classes. It was a long day and she was extra confused. Everyone kept glancing at her and whispering. I wonder why? As she entered she saw Val. “Oh hey Val! How was your day?” she asked like nothing was going on. Valentina looked at her. “It was fine. How about yours?” she asked slowly. Isabel took off her boots. “Ehh it was alright. Everyone kept on staring at me though. That was weird,” she said, still oblivious. Valentina sighed and cut to the chase. “Isabel, is there something you want to tell me?” Isabel slowed down and set her boots aside. “Uhm, no why do you ask?” she said a little more nervously now. Val looked surprised. Why wasn’t she telling her? “Are you sure?” Val asked again. “Yes,” replied Isabel hesitantly. Val saw that hesitant. Isabel walked up to her. “Is everything alright?” she asked, brushing a strand of hair aside. Val moved her hand away. Isabel looked surprised.

Val turned around now. “Why are you hiding it?” she asked softly. Isabel thought for a moment then realized. “Haven’t you realized the whole school is talking about you two? Are you really that oblivious?” she asked a little louder. She turned around. “Do you even like me?” she asked, a little broken. Isabel froze. “I didn’t want to assume. I thought it would be some sort of mistake. I even let you bring it up on your own but you didn’t. Isabel, do you really want to do this?” she asked, crying now. Isabel couldn’t move. “Valentina…I-I didn’t want to hurt you!” — “Well now I am! If you’d just told me the truth earlier…” Val trailed off. “Well let me tell you now. Sammi confessed to me that night and kissed me. I moved away immediately! I told her about us but I didn’t want to tell you because that would upset you even more. Val I’m sorry I shouldn’t have kept it from you. From now-” — “Isabel please. Why do you do this? I’ve asked you so many times about Sammi. You always said she was just a friend but the interactions… and the way you just let her do it! Even if you pulled away, why are you telling me this now? Why can’t you be more honest?” asked Val crying. “Val I didn’t want to hurt-” — “Please Isabel, I’m not 5. I just want you to be honest…I- I think we should take a break,” said Val sniffling. Isabel looked at her pleadingly and then looked away. “Fine maybe we should,” she replied, a little annoyed. Val didn’t look back and went up to her room, leaving Isabel all alone. 

It’s been a few days now and the two are still not talking. The whole kissing situation had died down in the Academy though. People were focused on the boy who drank toilet water now. Isabel acted like Valentina didn’t exist at all. So did Val. One time they got assigned to a group project. Isabel and Val were paired up. They did the whole assignment without talking to each other. “How is that even possible?” asked Rory as he sat down at the lunch table. “I don’t know but we have to fix this!” said Sophia. “I think there might be relationship books in the library,” said Layla. “I don’t know about that guys… but we might have to let them figure it out on their own,” said Ava slowly. “You’re probably right. Val would kill us from her glare alone and Isabel, probably physically,” said Rory covering her face with his hands. 

Valentina was walking towards the table. So was Isabel. They glanced at each other. Valentina turned around. She can’t have anyone asking questions. So she left for class early. Isabel saw this and rolled her eyes. She sat down at the table and ate her food silently. The others looked at her but said nothing. Even they weren’t really speaking to Isabel that often now. Then Sophia spoke out. “You seem to be eating well.” Isabel looked up, confused. “You know Valentina hasn’t been eating a lot lately.” Isabel paused. “How does that concern me?” she asked. Ava was shocked. “How does that concern you? She has been depressed ever since-” — “Ava please. I only hid the matter because I didn’t want to hurt her and even when I apologized she’s still angry?” — “That is true but it had a bigger impact on her. She trusted you Isabel and waited for you,” said Layla. “A bigger impact on her? What about me? Why am I always the one to be blamed,” asked Isabel, irritated now. “We’re just saying you shouldn’t have acted the way you did,” said Sophia. Isabel rolled her eyes and left.

During this conversation Valentina was in class. She sat down and was doing her homework, although she hadn’t written anything down. “So how long are you gonna stare at that paper?” asked Ms. Furi. Valentina looked up. “Oh hey auntie. I was just thinking,” she said quietly. “Valentina what happened? You look really washed out. Have you been eating?” Ms. Furi asked. She then stroked Val’s hair. Valentina looked surprised. Auntie doesn’t really show physical affection like that often. “Is it about Isabel?” she then asked. Valentina looked up now. “How do you know?” she asked slowly. “Valentina, I'm your aunt. I know that you are dating Isabel. And I also know about the rumor that was going around.” Valentina looked shocked her aunt knew about all of this. “Well we’re taking a break now, so we're fine.” — “What did she say?” asked Ms. Furi. Valentina sighed knowing there was no escape. “Well she apologized but I just don’t understand why would she hide it. I mean shouldn’t she know better than hide it? Also, after the constant ‘she’s just a friend’(Adrien ahh… srry lol)…I guess I needed a break from that,” she admitted. Ms. Furi sat down by her. “Valentina, you two are young and in a relationship. Which means mistakes. Isabel was probably confused on what to do. The least you could do is acknowledge that but I do understand where you’re coming from too.” Valentina thought about it. “Ok auntie,” she finally said. Maybe she should talk to Isabel.

Isabel was in her room, thinking about what her friends had said. Maybe she really shouldn’t have hid the truth. The only reason the misunderstanding elongated was because of that. She stopped throwing the ball and sat up. She stretched and got up. Then walked up to the door. Maybe she should talk to Valentina. 

She paused at the door. On the other side Valentina was standing there. She stood still, hand still up about to knock. Valentina turned around about to lean against the door. Just then Isabel opened the door. Valentina fell backwards and Isabel caught her, surprised. Isabel looked down and Val looked up. Both of them blushed. Val got up quickly and patted down her dress. “You ok?” asked Isabel slowly. “Yeah I- I didn’t know you were gonna open the door,” she replied, looking away. Isabel looked at her, blushing even more now. It’s been a while since she looked at Val in the face. When did she go from gorgeous to extra gorgeous? Valentina looked back and waved her hand in front of Isabel’s face. Isabel snapped back into reality. “You ok?” Val asked, laughing softly. Isabel's stomach scrunched up making her melt. Oh her laugh. How much she missed it. Valentina stood there awkwardly. “Yeah I’m ok,” Isabel finally said, rubbing the back of her head now. Valentina noticed her rosy cheeks and blushed. 

Isabel looked back. Neither of them were talking, just standing still. Valentina sighed, "I'm sorry. I should have thought about your perspective. I-” Isabel suddenly pulled her in for a hug. “You don’t have to apologize. I’m sorry for not considering how my actions made you feel.” Valentina hugged her back. Then she heard a sniffle. Was Isabel crying? Valentina pulled her back. Isabel looked at her and cried harder. “Oh I’m so so so sorry *sniff* I-I didn’t mean-” Valentina wiped her tears and brought her in closer. “There there,” she said, smiling. “Let it all out.” Once Isabel stopped crying she pulled back. Her nose was red now. She looked up at Val with those puppy eyes and lips in a pout. Valentina couldn’t help but pinch her cheeks. (This is giving: Aww so cute! -Speed’s voice lol) “Who knew the tough Isabel Armstrong could look so cute when crying,” she said, still pinching her cheeks. Isabel was lowkey offended but Valentina was smiling now so she said nothing. Valentina hugged her. “I missed you,” she said softly. “Me too,” replied Isabel wrapping her arms around Val’s waist. “Are we ok now?” asked Isabel. “Yes, yes we are,” replied Val. Then Isabel pulled back. “Then would it be ok for me to…” asked Isabel moving in closer. Valentina didn’t reply. Instead she leaned in closer too. They kissed for a long time. Isabel leaned more and more that Val had to step back each lean. It’s been many days since they were like this. Once they pulled back they were out of breath. Valentina’s lipstick was very smudged now. Half of it smudged on Isabel’s lips. “Your lipstick is smudged,” said Isabel, moving her thumb to wipe it off Val’s face. Val laughed softly, “I wonder why.” That laugh again, pulled Isabel back in for another kiss. Valentina leaned back in too. Once they pulled back. “You gotta stop laughing like that,” said Isabel softly. “Why does it make you nervous?” teased Val. Isabel didn’t take her eyes off of Val and Val pushed her away lightly. “Stop that,” she said, laughing. “Only if you stop laughing like that,” replied Isabel, pulling her back in. The two stood there for a while before Valentina said she had to leave. Isabel tried to make her stay but Val insisted she had to go. 

The Sapphires were back at the dorm now. Everyone was so happy that weekend was here. “OK!” yelled Rory. He then gave a smirk. Layla looked at him and tried to decipher that face. “Oh no…” she said. “Let’s play a game!” he said. He glanced at Valentina and then Isabel. Valentina saw the glances then she realized. Oh wait, we haven't revealed that we’re dating! Isabel looked at the anguish on Val’s face. She understood too. Valentina and Isabel still haven't officially told their friends yet. “No. No games,” said Val and started to walk away. “Awww looks like someone is scared~” taunted Rory. Val’s face flushed and she sat down. “Fine, let's play this game.” Isabel sat beside her wanting to experience the chaos unfold. The Sapphires sat in a circle. “Truth or Dare?” Rory asked Valentina. Valentina didn’t expect truth or dare out of all the games. But she couldn’t leave now, so she picked dare. Truth would lead to unwanted scenarios. Just as she thought she won Rory began grinning. “Ok Val, I dare you to… ADMIT THAT YOU AND ISABEL ARE DATING!” — “WHAT! That’s more of a truth than a dare!” yelled Valentina. Her face was completely red. 

“AHA! So it is true that you’re dating!” accused Rory in pleasure. “EEEEEK! OMG VAL!” squealed Ava. Sophia was enjoying the view, glad that everything was ok now. “I NEVER SAID THAT!” Valentina blurted. “Well technically you’re implying it,” said Layla, adjusting her glasses. Isabel looked at Val and took her hand. Everyone went silent now. Val looked back and calmed down. She sighed, “Yes. We are dating.” Ava looked like she could explode any minute now. Sparkles practically flying out of her head. “But don’t make a big deal out of it!... or anything,” said Val, looking away. “That’s all I needed to hear,” said Rory. He then laid against the couch, looking pleased with himself. “Well we’re off to bed,” said Sophia. She gestured everybody else to follow. The others understood and left quickly, leaving Valentina and Isabel behind. After everyone left, “Sooo~ don’t make a big deal out of it. Huh?” asked Isabel. Valentina slightly pushed her, jokingly. “Hey! I thought you liked me,” teased Isabel.

Valentina got up, ready to leave. Isabel got up too but held her back by holding her hand. Val looked back. “What?” she asked, smiling. “Where are you going?” Isabel pouted. “To sleep,” Val replied. “Want me to come too?” teased Isabel. “Ugh no-uh!” Valentina said in an “annoyed” tone. Val rolled her eyes and tried to leave but Isabel continued to hold her hand. Isabel looked up at Val like she wanted something only Val could give. “What is it?” Val asked slowly. “Well I was wondering if you could…” — “If I could?” Val stepped closer, tilting her head. “Well… give me a goodnight kiss,” said Isabel without any shame at all. “Wow! Look at you. Where did all this confidence come from?” Val continued to step closer like personal space wasn’t a thing. She then leaned in closer and… gave Isabel a kiss on the cheek. “That’s it?” asked Isabel, disappointed. “What? That wasn’t enough? You’re being so demanding!” Val teased. Isabel then pulled Valentina back in and kissed her. Longer this time. Once they pulled back, “That’s how you do it,” said Isabel, proud of herself. Valentina rolled her eyes, still blushing and smiling. “Well goodnight!” Val chirped then left. Isabel stood there for a moment then quickly ran after her. “Wait for me! I’ll walk you to your room.” called out Isabel. Val rolled her eyes but still offered her hand to Isabel. “You know we’re literally in the same dorm right?” — “Yeah I know but if something happens, I gotta protect you,” said Isabel. “Protect me from what exactly?” asked Val, amused by Isabel’s behavior. “Well everything. You’re a Furi after all.” — “Well we’re here at my room so goodnight my knight,” interrupted Val. She went in her room, leaving Isabel flustered.

It’s Saturday now. Valentina got up extra early this morning. She had a special job today. She had to show a new student around. She was at the port where a girl came off the boat. Valentina walked forward examining this girl. “Hey I’m Sammi!” she chirped. Sammi was the same height as Val and had short black hair with wispy bangs. She was wearing jean shorts and sneakers with a hoodie. She had this cute attitude which made Valentina a little suspicious. But Valentina was always suspicious of newcomers. She needed them to uphold Unicorn Academy. “Yes, hello. I’m Valentina Furi and I’ll be showing you around.” She glanced at her, expecting Sammi to recognize Furi, but Sammi didn’t. Whatever, she's probably the first one in her family. Valentina thought. Val showed her around the school and along the way they ran into the Sapphires.

“Heyy Val!” shouted Ava. “Is this the new student?” asked Sophia. “Yes this is Sammi,” said Val. “Well Sammi, I’m Rory. Pleased to meet you,” said Rory dramatically while bowing. Layla pulled him back up. Sammi giggled at the boy’s behavior. Then Isabel came forward but paused. Her eyes widened. “Sam- Sammi?” she stuttered. “Isabel?” asked Sammi in return. Valentina looked at them both. She started to get an uneasy feeling. “Woah! I can’t believe you’re really here!” said Isabel excitedly. “When- How-” stuttered Sammi. She ran up to Isabel and gave her a big hug. Isabel was caught off guard but pulled back immediately at the sight of Valentina. Valentina looked at them confused, including the other Sapphires. Sammi held Isabel’s hand, “Now I know that you’re here. My stay is going to be a lot more fun!” chirped Sammi. “Isabel, you know Sammi?” asked Val, glancing at their hands. Isabel pulled the hand back and adjusted her jacket's cuff that didn’t need to be adjusted. She chuckled nervously. “Yeah we know each other from way back! We used to date!” replied Sammi for Isabel. Val couldn’t get a word out of her mouth. We used to date…date….date. That word repeated in her head. Once she snapped back she glanced at Isabel. “Oh really?” she asked, crossing her arms now. “But we’re friends now…hehe…” interrupted Isabel. The others were basically melting from the tension.

“Isabel never told us she dated someone before,” said Val tilting her head. Isabel wanted to say something but Sammi interrupted. “Ohhh~ I’m surprised you didn’t mention me. You used to talk about me all the time with other people,” teased Sammi. Isabel lowkey hit the Speed face. “Yeah yeah. But you know… so much work… barely any time to talk,” Isabel said, voice cracking at talk. Sophia got goosebumps. She couldn’t handle the awkwardness anymore. “Hey Sammi, you wanna see the student lounge? There are snacks. Special ones from the island!” She gestured to the others to follow along. “Yeah they’re super delicious!” said Ava quickly. Layla and Rory nodded. Then the others took her away, leaving Isabel and Val alone. Isabel let out a huge breath then looked up. Val was tapping her feet and had her arms crossed. She raised an eyebrow. “Your ex. When were you gonna tell me about it?” she asked. Isabel looked at her. “Wait…are you jealous?” she asked. Val looked away. Isabel took Val’s hands. “Val…We used to date. Now we’re just friends.” Isabel moved a stand of hair away from Val’s face. Val looked at her now. “Besides, I like you more,” she finished. Val relaxed a little, a little. 

It’s been a few days now. All the words Isabel said that day when Sammi came was starting to lose effect on Val. Everyday she would see them hanging out together. Sammi would link arms and laugh at Isabel’s jokes. In the beginning Val would just ignore it but now? Valentina felt something. Jealousy. She started to talk less and less to Isabel, thinking the lack of interaction would reel her back in but it didn’t. Isabel was occupied by Sammi. Valentina felt this rage start up inside of her. On the other hand, Isabel wanted to find times where she could be with Val but Sammi was always there. Isabel didn’t know how to leave without hurting Sammi because every time she said that she had to go, Sammi would always pout. Isabel tried telling Sammi that her and Val are dating but Sammi would always interrupt her before she could even start the sentence. Besides it was kinda nice hanging out with Sammi again so she thought Val would be ok for a while. But boy was it the wrong move.

Back at the dorms, Isabel came late. She was tired after going on a long ride with Sammi. As Isabel entered she came face to face with her friends. They all looked very disappointed. “Well look who’s back,” said Rory. Isabel was confused. “Hey guys… why are you all looking at me like that?” Sophia cut to the chase. “Isabel. Where were you? You’re late again.” — “Valentina was waiting for you,” said Ava. “And she’s not happy,” finished Layla. Isabel rolled her eyes. “I was just hanging out with Sammi. Why does Valentina even care?” she said, a little annoyed now. Before the others could speak, Isabel went to Val’s room. She knocked on the door. “Val, it's me. Isabel.” She heard shuffling from the inside then the door opened. Val looked at her with no expression. Isabel sighed. “Can I come inside?” she asked. Val let her in and sat back down in her bed.

“So what is it?” asked Isabel. Valentina didn’t look up. Instead she took her nail file. “What is what?” she asked. “You know what I’m talking about.” Valentina brought the trash bin closer and dusted off her nail dust in there. “No I don’t,” she replied. Isabel sighed and sat by her. “Val…” Valentina continued to file her nails. Isabel took the nail file. “Hey!” — “Will you look at me?” Valentina looked at her. “I don’t know why you’re still jealous. I told you Sammi is just a friend. It’s been a long time since we’ve seen each other…so we’ve been spending time together.” — “A lot of time,” Val pouted. “Yeah I guess so,” Isabel chuckled softly. Valentina crossed her arms. “What? I’ve been trying to find time to be with you but she… keeps on persuading me to stay.” —- “Well tell her that you need to spend time with your girlfriend. Me?” Isabel smiled at Val’s pout. “I tried to but she- Well. You know what, I promise that I will spend more time with you. Ok? All of tomorrow.” Isabel squeezed Val’s hand gently and got up to leave.

Val held her back. Isabel looked back. “You’re gonna leave? After spending so much time with her, the least you could do is stay here for a while,” said Val quietly. Isabel smiled and sat by Valentina. The two were now tucked in Val’s bed. Val laid her head on Isabel’s shoulder and made herself comfortable. Isabel held Val’s hand, rubbing it gently. “I never thought you’d be so jealous. You’re Valentina Furi. How can you be?” teased Isabel. “Well when you have Isabel Armstrong as a girlfriend, it’s not possible to not be jealous,” said Val gently. Isabel was surprised by Val’s answer. “Wow. I am so honored,” said Isabel dramatically. She then lifted Val’s face by the chin. “You know it’s cute how you pretend not to care when others are around but when it’s just us you melt completely.” Isabel leaned in for a kiss. Val leaned in too. They kissed for a long time. Isabel pulled back but Val still had her eyes locked onto Isabel’s lips. Val leaned back in for another kiss and Isabel didn’t reject it. Val kissed her like Isabel just came back from war or something.

Once they pulled back they were basically out of breath completely. “Oh wow. You really did miss me,” said Isabel, surprised but laughing quietly. “Yes, yes I did,” said Val. Soon after Val had fallen asleep on Isabel’s shoulders. Isabel noticed this then adjusted Val so she was laying down. Just as Isabel tried to leave Val held her back once again. “Please don’t go,” she said, half asleep. Isabel shook her head. “Alright. I’ll stay for a few minutes.” Then she laid down beside her, staring at the ceiling. Valentina moved in closer like space wasn’t allowed. Val had snuggled in beside Isabel. Isabel started to blush. This was new. Sleepy Val was a whole different person. It wasn’t long before they both drifted off to sleep. 

It was morning now. Valentina got up first. She wanted to get up but didn’t want to leave the warm sensation. She opened one eye and saw Isabel. Oh it’s just Isabel. WAIT ISABEL! She got up so fast, blushing so hard. Isabel felt the sudden movement and sat up quickly. She had her karate hands. “What! What happened?” she said, still half asleep. Valentina was still blushing. She can’t believe that they slept together! Isabel looked at her, squinting her eyes while Val was still in the same position. The two were like that for a moment. Then Isabel opened her eyes and started blushing. WE SLEPT TOGETHER! “EH…God Afternoon. I-I mean good after- m-morning!” Isabel moved back and fell off the bed. Val finally moved to check if she was ok. “I’m OK!” said Isabel. She sprung up. “Um…see you later?” Then she sprinted out of Val’s room. Val still hasn’t stopped blushing.

The Sapphires met up at breakfast. Neither Valentina nor Isabel talked about what happened. Layla looked up from her book. “So Isabel, it looks like you had a good night's rest,” she teased. Isabel choked on her water. “Yeah! Rest! I had sleep. Sleep is good…for races.” She was blushing. Valentina looked away, covering her mouth, trying to hide the smile. The others just laughed. Just then she saw the one person she didn’t want to see, Sammi. Valentina’s smile disappeared instantly. Isabel looked at Val and then at the reason. “Isabel!” Sammi called out. “Do you want to go for a ride?” she asked. Val looked at Isabel, crossing her arms. Isabel saw her look and got up. “Oh actually Sammi I can’t today. I was gonna ride with-” — “Oh come onnn. Don’t you remember the bet we made yesterday?” Sammi pouted. She then took Isabel’s hand. Valentina got up now. “There’s been a change of plans. She’s actually going on a ride with me.” Rory sunk into his chair deeper now. Ava sipped her water slowly. Layla pretended to show something in the book to Sophia. “Yeah sorry Sammi. Not today,” said Isabel as she moved her hands away. “Oh ok then later today?” asked Sammi. “Actually she’s booked for all of today,” said Val, more impatient now. Sammi felt something was off. “Fine tomorrow then,” she said to Isabel. Sammi hugged Isabel then left.

“Ugh, doesn’t she know when to stop asking?” said Val, poking at her fruits. “Well don’t worry about it. Sammi is just like that. She’s very persuasive. That’s why I dat-” Isabel stopped abruptly. Val looked at her. “That’s why what?” she asked. “N-nothing! Let’s go for our ride,” said Isabel quickly. Then the two were off. Rory let out a huge breath. “I’m glad that’s over now.” —  “Yeah it was getting really stuffy,” said Layla, finally taking her eyes off her book. “Glad I’m not in a relationship,” said Rory, leaning back on the chair. “I don’t think anyone would want to be in one with you,” mumbled Sophia jokingly. “HEY! I heard that!” yelled Rory. Then the group erupted in laughter.

Val and Isabel were on their ride. Isabel kept on flexing and trying to do dangerous tricks despite Valentina telling her not to. “Isabel for the last time you guys are not doing a back flip. You’re gonna break your back. You and River!” — “I say we got it. What do you say buddy?” Both Val and River gave her a glance of disapproval. “Ok, fine.” They reached the end of their trail. “Wanna race back?” asked Isabel. “Oh you’re on!” — “Ok… ready set GO!” — “Isabel! That’s not fair,” yelled out Val, laughing. The two finally reached back to the outskirts of Unicorn Academy. “We won River!” said Isabel pumping her arms up. “Uhm. No you didn’t. Me and Cinder did,” said Val, petting Cinder’s mane. “Nuh-uh. Me and River did,” said Isabel. Valentina raised an eyebrow. “Fine, you and Cinder won. But you winning basically means I won too,” said Isabel, placing her hands on her heart. Valentina rolled her eyes. “Come on, we better get back soon. It’s getting dark.” Then the two made their way back to the stables. 

Valentina brushed Cinder’s mane. Then she heard shuffling behind her. “What is it Isabel?” she asked. Isabel walked in the stall, suspiciously. Valentina looked at her, raising an eyebrow. Isabel pointed at her lips shamelessly. Valentina rolled her eyes. “Fine, but only one,” she said, laughing softly. Isabel blushed. She went soft whenever Val laughed like that. The two leaned in closer and closer. Then they heard a noise. “Isabel?” They pulled apart quickly, regaining their composure. They both looked out the stall to see Sammi. Valentina's mood immediately worsened. “Oh hey Isabel, I want to talk to you. Do you have a moment?” she asked. “Well now she does cuz you ruined ours,” mumbled Valentina under her breath. Isabel looked at her and back at Val. “Sure, what’s up?” asked Isabel. “Oh uhm, privately?” asked Sammi, gesturing to go outside. Isabel looked back at Val but left with Sammi. Valentina was left alone, brushing Cinder’s mane.