and what do i look like, mister know–it–all? i suggest you be careful with your next words. knowing my worth isn’t being full of myself. a very thin line for you, i’m sure.

it is obvious, but having you say it out loud is rather enjoyable and prevents you from forgetting it. intention, or just me wanting to see if i can push any buttons. and you’re still talking to me, so what does that say about you?

her smile widens and clarisse tucks a curl behind her ear, her frame relaxing at the reassurance. “i should’ve been more careful, but thank you.” but she seems satisfied now that they’ve introduced each other. “i like your name. i can’t help but think mine makes me older.”

“strong personality, i’m sure. i think it suits you.” with an elbow propped on her knee, clarisse allows her head to rest on her palm as she thinks. fake name, no surname … “i have thought about changing mine —— i’m not even french, it’s just odd all around.”

i fail to see how that’s relevant —— i do love you, even when you’re aggravating.

i wasn’t aware that was a synonym for peaceful, but we can go with it if you insist. are you going to keep defending yourself or are you going to cheer me up with a kiss?

❨ completely ignoring the fact she willingly looked for pia after doing / that / to the last one sixty years before her birth. ❩ that’s pretty high confidence. … okay, and? i’m not sure how that’s my problem. call in sick.

it is a good thing you’re so attractive, otherwise i would be compelled to say no. are you doing it or am i bound to be disappointed?

“it’s not kind if it’s the truth. i happen to always be right.” watching her come closer, clarisse attempts to shift away just enough to give her proper space. “because i look that old?” she jokes, fingers touching the corner of her eyes. “you’re sweet.”

that is a miracle, i might have to alert the press. should i record this milestone? and you still haven’t given me a kiss —— please, before i go kill the neighbours.

clarisse appreciates the moments of tender love pia offers her, even when she doesn’t deserve them ❨ or her ❩ —— but she needs a little bit more than that, which is why she wraps both arms around her neck to return the kiss firmly. “don’t go, i’ll even cook for you.”

‘that one is very rude’. she never said she was stepmother material.

my heart stains your hands like pomegranates.

⁄ ⁄﹕ estoy tan agotada emocionalmente que a este punto voy a desactivar todas mis cuentas. me vale tres mierdas.

grumble.

… leans against her, even though she’s still angry with aphrodite after their most recent argument.

she just keeps quiet and allows her eyes to keep scanning the book in her hands, refusing to acknowledge the apology. clarisse can hold onto a grudge like no other.