“Told you,” Sofia said, a bit smugly.
“Yeah, yeah.”
“Any idea what you’re going to do for the portfolio?”
I shook my head. “All I know is that I want it to be cohesive. Maybe we can come up with a theme?”
“Hmm… I really loved that tree nymph you did this summer. The one where you had all those leaves sticking out of your hair? What if you create a look that represents a tree during each season of the year?” she suggested. “You could do some kind of play on blossoms for spring, maybe snow-covered branches for winter?”
“That has potential,” I said, tapping a finger against my mouth. I liked the concept, but was it too cliché? Before I could fully process the idea, my phone vibrated.
Galaxy Rider:
My commissioned artwork as promised. We look pretty badass IMO.
What the hell did Xander mean by we?
I clicked on the picture he sent to enlarge it. Sure enough, it was the sketch he commissioned from Ashley Riddle, although there was more than one figure in the drawing. Standing next to him was a girl with an amethyst pendant and a dazzling smile.
Indie:
OMG! Ashley added me?
Galaxy Rider:
Yup. Went back after you left and asked her to.
Indie:
Wow. That’s totally awesome!
Can I ask why?
Galaxy Rider:
Because you’re an important part of the memory!
Biting my lip, I stared down at his text for a solid minute, trying to compose a good response. I wanted to say something charming and witty, but nothing came to mind.
“Why are you so smiley?” Sofia asked, leaning over to see what I was looking at.
“No reason,” I said and clutched the phone close to my chest so she couldn’t read over my shoulder. She narrowed her eyes at me in suspicion, but I ignored her and continued to consider my reply. I must have taken too long, because three dots appeared on my screen.
Galaxy Rider:
FYI I expect you to hold up your end of the deal.
Indie:
What deal?
Galaxy Rider:
I promised to send you a picture of my commission in exchange for an update on your plans. Any chance your Saturday freed up?
“You’re such a liar,” Sofia said, plucking the phone from my hands. “Who are you texting?”
“Hey, give that back!” I lunged after her, but Sofia was too quick. She scrambled out of my reach, eyes already scanning the conversation.
