Avventura di Amore

By AMI MEITSU

A/N: This tale takes place soon after Disney Princess Invidia, in mid-July.

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The pitter-patter of rain on the window provided the background noise as Invidia sat in the kitchen, typing on her laptop the Monday after helping Shamura with her niece’s birthday party. She alternated between writing her article, writing her novel and reading the play Akira had been assigned in her ancient literature class. Upon finding it, she bought her own copy and sat, smiling as she read.

‘Lady Macbeth, you murderous bitch…You show him who’s in charge!’ Invidia thought, laughing to herself as she read, then, she paused and turned back to her work, only to be interrupted by her phone.

“What?” She said.

“Invidia?” Ariana asked from her end.

“Ariana, what do you want? I’m off, remember?”

“Not anymore. I need you to come in for a meeting.”

“What? When?”

“Noon. So, you’ve got an hour and a half to get over here.”

Invidia groaned. “Do I have to? I’m working!”

“Yes! Stop complaining! I’ll see you at noon,” Ariana snapped, then, she hung up.

Invidia stared at her phone and sighed. She put her head on the table and muttered, “No fair…I thought I was getting a break today…”

Beside her, Monica the kitten meowed.

“What, cat?”

Monica meowed again and extended her black-and-white paws up on Invidia’s legs.

“Alright, alright,” Invidia said, picking the small cat up.

Monica began to purr as she set herself a spot in Invidia’s lap.

“Monica! No!” Invidia picked her up again and stood up, holding Monica over her shoulder.

“I’m sorry, Honey, but you can’t sit down. I have to get ready for work.” She then set Monica in her sleeping basket and headed into the bedroom. ‘I’m not sure if I have anything left…I had Arty take my work suits to the dry cleaners because I intended to be off this week…’ Invidia thought as she looked through her closet. She sighed when she realized she didn’t have anything professional and decided to make something out of her other clothes. Eventually, she settled on black skirt, a dark-red, off-the-shoulder top with elbow length sleeves and matching, black sandals. ‘This will have to do. If Ariana says anything I’ll just say that it’s her fault for calling me in on my day off,’ Invidia thought as she dressed and quickly prepared and ate lunch before leaving. She arrived with ten minutes to spare and spent that time at her desk, finishing her reading of act one of Macbeth, then, at noon she got up and headed into the conference room.

“Invidia,” Ariana, in a dark, navy-blue, pant suit, said as she stepped in. “Your seat is over there, and, where’s your usual attire?”

“At the dry cleaners. I thought I had the week off and had Arty drop off my usual suits this morning, so this will have to do for the both of us,” Invidia replied as she sat down and inwardly sighed at Ariana. To match her professional look she had pulled her dark, brown hair into a ponytail, and it frustrated Invidia. She couldn’t understand why a woman with such beautiful hair would keep it restrained all the time. 

“Very well then,” Ariana shrugged and began directing everyone else to their seats. Invidia recognized some of the people, but not all. She assumed that they were from different sectors and ignored them and their “mindless chatter” as she called it.

“Aright, I think that’s everyone,” Ariana said. “Now, you’re probably wondering why you’re all

here.”

“I was promised doughnuts,” One man said.

Ariana rolled her eyes. “Jack, that wasn’t funny at this morning’s meeting and it’s not funny now. Anyway, you may or may not know, but, in two weeks, Venice’s fashion week will begin.”

“I know that’s near your home and all, but, what’s it got to do with us?” A young woman, Tina, asked.

“Let me get to the point. This year, by order of Ms. Ikumi, we’ll be doing full coverage on the event. And, all of you sitting here before me have been chosen to go on this trip.”

The room as silent as everyone absorbed the information, then, in less than a second’s time, the endless chatter began.

“Oh my god! Italy? Really?” One woman, Natsumi, said.

“Alright! We’re going to land of spaghetti!” A man, Blaine, said, making Invidia roll her eyes, then, ignoring them, she raised her hand.

“Yes, Invidia?” Ariana asked.

“Now, is this going to be paid for or are we covering it on our own?”

As soon as the words left her mouth, the chatter ceased and everyone turned to Ariana.

“Most of it will be paid. The plane, hotel, and any and all work supplies will be paid for, you will, however, have to pay for your own food and any and all activities you choose to do on your own. And, starting tomorrow, everyone in this room will be taking mandatory lessons in Italian to help you get around,” Ariana said as she handed out several papers. Most were brochures and trip details, the one that stuck out was the blue one that listed the schedule for the language lessons being taught by Ariana herself. She then went on to relay the details of the trip and dismissed them, saying that meetings were to be held on a daily basis and that, during them, other details and assignments would be given.

Upon dismissal, everyone left. Everyone but Invidia. “Ariana,” She said.

“Hm?” Ariana turned as Invidia handed back the blue paper.

“Thank you, but I have no need to attend these lessons, I speak fluent Italian.”

Ariana laughed. “Nice try, but you’re not getting out of it.” She then turned with the intention to leave, but was stopped when Invidia said,

“Sembrate oggi piacevole.” (You look nice today.)

Immediately Ariana turned and responded, “Provando ad adularlo, siete?” (Trying to flatter me, are you?)

“No. Appena dimostrare un punto.” (No. Just demonstrating my point.) 

“Quando avete imparato parlare italiano?” (When did you learn to speak Italian?), Ariana asked.

Reverting back to English, Invidia said, “I began taking classes about six years ago. Arty was on patrol for the year and I was going through a period of time where I was getting bored with being home and playing mommy and wanted to try something new. I had seen some videos, and always thought Italian was a beautiful language, so, I enrolled in a course at a local community college and liked it, so I kept moving up until I finished the highest level of the course.”

“Then, would you like to help me teach the course?”

“Well…” Invidia said, then, she thought, ‘I’ve wanted to go to Italy for vacation for the longest time. I know we have a vacation planned in August, but I don’t think Arty could pass up an opportunity like this, and I’d love to share it with him…’

“Well?” Ariana asked.

“I will, on one condition.”

“Alright.”

“You allow Arty to come on the trip as well.”

“Cosa?!” (What?!)

“You heard me. This is a great experience and I want to share it with Arty.”

“You just want to get romantic in an Italian hotel room!” Ariana accused, jabbing her finger into Invidia’s chest.

“First off, ow,” Invidia said as she moved Ariana’s hand. “Second, while that may be part of the reason, I really do want to share it with him! It’ll be a great experience and I know he’ll love the idea and he can keep to himself, and…”

Ariana held up her hand. “Fine, he can come. But, he has to pay his own way and you cannot allow his presence to keep you from your work.”

Invidia smiled and nodded. “Yes Ma’am!”

“Good, now take this,” Ariana said, handing back the blue paper. “I need you to arrive a half hour before these times to help me set up, got it?”

Invidia nodded again and asked, “Now that this is over, can I go home now?”

“Yes.”

Invidia smiled, turned, and headed out of the room. After collecting her belongings from her desk, she made her way out to her car, but, instead of heading home, she headed to her favorite bakery and picked up some items for a cake she planned to make in hopes of convincing Arty to go to Italy with her.

‘He’ll love this,’ She thought as she stirred batter an hour later. She quickly moved about the kitchen, adding the necessary ingredients to her mixture and preparing the correct pans. ‘And, if this doesn’t work, I may be able to soften him up with something a little more…naughty.’ Invidia smiled at the thought and carefully poured the batter into two separate pans. Then, she quickly slipped them into the oven and began to clean up the mess that was the kitchen at the moment before moving on to making the frosting and filling for the cake. ‘And for dinner I can make something special…I’m sure I have enough ingredients to pull off a roast chicken dish of some kind…The only thing I would have trouble with is getting the kids out of the house…’ Invidia thought just as the kids walked in the door.

“Hey, Mom,” Ryou said.

“It smells good in here, what are you cooking?” Akira asked.

“None of your business. You’re not getting any of it anyway!”

“Why not?”

“Because it’s for your father,” Invidia explained as she began to sieve through her purse. “Here!”

She said, handing them each a bill. “Here’s fifty dollars! Go out tonight and do something!”

“Um…thanks?” Ryou said with a confused expression on his face.

“Look, I’ve got plans tonight and I want you out of the way until at least eleven, got it?”

“But, Invidia-Mama, it’s a school night,” Akira pointed out.

“So? You’ve gone to bed later than that before.”

“Yes, but…”

“Just go! Get out of my sight for the night!”

Akira and Ryou glanced at each other, shrugged, and headed into their rooms to change. After doing so, they quickly completed their homework and made phone calls, and, by six o’clock, they were both out of the house.

‘It’s about time,’ Invidia thought, glancing at the clock. ‘Arty did say he was going to be late tonight, but I thought he’d be here by now…’ She sighed and looked from the elegantly set table to her attire, which consisted of a strapless, wine-red dress, silver sandals and a simple, gold chain.  She then sighed again just as Arty walked in the door, dressed in his EDF blues. “Arty!”

She said, running to hug him.

“Hi Princess,” Arty said.

“Come, eat. I’ve had dinner waiting for a while,” Invidia said as she pulled at his wrist and found that he wouldn’t budge.

“Invidia, I’m tired. Why don’t you give me a chance to settle down first?”

“Fine!” She pouted. “But when you come back out I want you in dress clothes, got it?”

“Why?”

“Just get changed!”

“Alright, alright, give me a minute.”

Invidia sighed as he walked off and made her way back into the kitchen, there, she leaned against the counter and waited. Six minutes passed before Arty reemerged in a pair of black, dress slacks, a short-sleeved white shirt and a red tie to match Invidia’s dress. “You look great!” Invidia complimented.

“And you’re beautiful. Now, what’s this about?”

“Are you blind? Look ahead and see for yourself.” Invidia motioned to the table and watched

Arty’s eyes widen. “Come,” Invidia commanded as she pulled at his wrist again, this time, he moved.

Once they were seated, Arty quickly took notice of and poured the wine, then, he asked, “Where are the kids?”

“I sent them out for the night so we could be alone,” Invidia replied. “They’ll be back by eleven.”

“Invidia! It’s a school night!”

“Who cares? They’ve gone to school with less sleep than they will receive tonight! I don’t want to talk about them anyway.”

“Then, what do you want to talk about?”

Invidia carefully picked up her glass and swirled the wine that lay in it. “I’ll tell you after we eat,” She replied.

Arty watched her with a confused expression and shrugged.

The rest of the meal was eaten in silence only breaking for a bit of small talk, and, afterwards, Invidia stood up, placed the dinner plates in the sink, and pulled out two desert plates, then, she reached into the fridge and pulled out a chocolate-frosted cake.

“What is that?” Arty asked.

“One of your favorites,” Invidia said as she carefully cut it. “My triple chocolate cake.”

“The one with the chocolate mousse filling?”

Invidia nodded as she set the plates down. She then took her place again and smiled as she waited for him to eat it.

Arty stared at it for a while and said, “Okay, what do you want?”

“What?”

“You only make this for special occasions or if you want something, and since it’s not a special occasion, it must be the former. “

“Can’t I make a delicious well-liked cake for my husband without being accused of ulterior motives?”

“Not when it’s combined with my favorite roast-chicken dinner.”

Invidia sighed, knowing that she had to tell the truth. “Fine,” She said. “I have a proposition of you.”

“What kind of proposition?” Arty asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Today I was called into work for a meeting and I found out that in two weeks, a select group of reporters will travel to Italy for Venice’s fashion week and I’m part of the group going.”

“Princess! That’s great! It’ll…”

Invidia held up her hand. “I’m not done. You know I’ve wanted to go to Italy for a long time with you and this is an experience I’d love to share. So.” Invidia gently laid her hand on top of his from across the table. “I ask you now, will you consider joining me in this adventure?”

“What?!”

“Please Arty! Come to Italy with me!”

“Invidia, I…I can’t. I have to work and…”

“I’ll give you some time to think, but please consider it,” Invidia said, looking at him with pleading eyes. “I’ll pay for the plane ticket and I know I’m supposed to be working, but you can help so you won’t be bored.”

“I’ll think about it,” Arty finally said.

“Thank you.”

“One question though, how is Ariana going to feel?”

“I already asked and she said it was fine as long as you pay your own way and I help her teach Italian lessons.”

“But, Princess, you don’t speak Italian.”

“Elemosino per differire, il mio amore.” (I beg to differ, my love.)

Arty stared at her wide eyed and said, “But…how…when…?”

“Six years ago, when you went on that patrol. I got bored with being home all the time and began taking Italian courses at the local community college. I was taking classes for three years, Darling. You didn’t notice?”

“I remember you doing a lot of paperwork and being gone for hours at a time, I just figured you were helping someone with something, And, I never saw any textbooks.”

“I had three, but I kept them and my work well-hidden. I didn’t want you to know.”

“Why? This…This means you’re quad-lingual, quite a feat if you ask me.”

“I had a childlike thrill in keeping the secret, and had no need to speak much Italian in front of you for a long time.”

Arty sat back, thinking, then, he asked, “Just curious, what comes after the cake?”

Invidia gave him a sly smile and said in a seductive tone, “Gli atti circa da commettere non possono essere accennati ad alta voce.”(The acts about to be committed cannot be mentioned out loud.)

“I have no idea what you just said, but, it sounds sexy,” Arty replied with a sly smile of his own.

Invidia stood up, took his hand and led him into the bedroom, thinking, ‘If this can’t convince you to change your mind about going to Italy, nothing will.’

Awhile later, she lay cuddled up next to Arty in bed in the aftermath of their second lovemaking session.

“Can you imagine how exciting it would be to do this is a foreign country? The idea has a certain thrill to it, no?” She asked.

“Invidia…” Arty sighed. “I don’t know if I can…”

“Please? You hardly ever use any leave, so I know you have plenty. And, I know we’re scheduled to go on a family vacation in August, but, this really means a lot to me and I want to share it with you.”

“I said I’d think about it.”

“Well, I can’t wait! I want to know now before I spend the money on the ticket! If need be, I can try convincing you again,” She said as she gently set her hand on his chest.

“Alright, you try that and then we’ll talk.”

Invidia smiled, moved in close and kissed him, praying that this time, it would work.

Unfortunately, she never got an answer, as, she feel asleep shortly after they finished and stayed asleep until the next morning, when she was awoken by Monica batting at her hair.

“Monica, stop,” She said.

Monica meowed and continued batting at her.

Invidia sighed, and sat up, frustrated with the cat’s stubbornness. “What?!” She asked.

Monica meowed at her again and jumped off the bed.

‘I get it, you want me to follow you…great, now I have to get up,’ Invidia thought, then, she got up, threw a robe over herself and followed Monica into the kitchen, where, a note sat on the counter. Quickly, Invidia picked it up and read.

Tried to feed Monica this morning, but found that we were out of cat food. Can you pick some up on your way home from work? I’m going to be late again.

Love,

Arty

Invidia sighed, looked at the clock, which read seven-thirty, and then cast her gaze towards Monica. “I know you’re hungry, but you’re going to have to wait. I have a meeting at nine, and then I’ll come home and feed you before I have to go back and start teaching Italian.”

Monica, who understood not a word of that, just meowed.

Sighing again, Invidia opened the fridge, got out a piece of leftover chicken and pulled it apart to get a few pieces of non-seasoned meat, then, she set the small chunks on the floor and watched Monica eat.

‘That should hold you over for now,’ She thought, heading for the shower. Afterwards, she dressed in a simple-but-elegant looking, red, spaghetti-strap sundress with a black sash and made herself a quick, simple breakfast of cereal and fruit before leaving.

“See you later, Monica. I promise to come back with food.” She gave Monica a quick pat, grabbed her purse and headed out, arriving ten minutes early. She was then caught by Ariana as she headed to her desk.

“You’re early! Great! Now you can help me!” Ariana said.

“Do I have a choice?” Invidia sighed.

“No, and, nice outfit, though it’s not very professional.”

“Thank you, and, I’m going to the dry cleaner’s after the meeting tomorrow to pick up my work clothes.”

Ariana half-heartedly nodded and led Invidia into the meeting room, where, three separate boxes sat.

“What is this stuff?” Invidia asked.

“Just materials for the meeting, open that one and put one of the books at each chair,” Ariana ordered, pointing to a box.

Invidia obeyed and quickly opened it, but, when she glanced at the books, she stopped. “What’s with the textbooks?”

“They’re for the lessons. I sent a request to a local college and they agreed to loan us the books for the two weeks of lessons. Any book that’s not returned must be paid for. I figured they would help some learn faster.”

“This is the same book I used during my first class.”

Ariana nodded. “Since nearly everyone here knows little or no Italian, I thought it’d be best to start from the beginning.”

Invidia nodded as she set down the last book.

“Great, now, there are workbooks in the other box. Just set them on top of the textbooks.”

Invidia nodded and did as she was told. Then, she assisted Ariana with some filing before the rest of her coworkers entered and the meeting began.

“What you see before you are the materials you will use and study from during our Italian lessons, which will be assisted by Invidia,” Ariana explained. 

Several of the people in the room looked at each other with confused expressions, prompting Invidia to stand.

“Oh, you,” One guy said. “You’re the bitch who gets paid to stay home all day.”

Invidia glared at him. “I’m an independent worker,” She snapped.

“Say one more thing and you’re off the project, Daniel!” Ariana snapped. “You’re position requires you to report everyday and Invidia’s doesn’t! We never pay anybody for not working.”

Daniel just rolled his eyes, while the woman next to him, Reiko, said, “Wait a minute! You’re the woman with the hot husband who sends flowers. How can I train mine to do that?”

Invidia gasped, insulted. “Arty is not trained! He sends me flowers because he loves me!”

“Enough!” Ariana snapped, slamming her hands on the table. “This is a professional workplace, not a high school classroom! Behave like civilized adults or I’m scrapping the project and bringing in new reporters!”

Everyone sat back at that, satisfying Ariana and Invidia, who took her seat again.

“Alright,” Ariana sighed. “Last night I organized the assignments and assigned them based on your strengths.” She then picked up a stack of folders and began handing them out. “There may be some revisions done in the next couple of days, so don’t be shocked it you get called in by me or your assigned editor.”

Jack raised his hand, at which Ariana nodded. “Which editors will be joining us on this trip?”

“Julia from sector five, Rihito from sector three, me, of course, and Mrs. Ikumi.”

“Careful guys, the man is coming,” Tina said at the mention of their editor-in-chief, earning laughs from those around her and an eye roll from Ariana as she handed Invidia the last folder.

“Photography and designer profiles…” Invidia muttered to herself as she read and then raised her hand.

“Yes, Invidia?”

“Photography is a bit vague, isn’t it? There are several…”

“There should be details amongst your papers.”

Invidia nodded and began to sieve through them as Ariana went on about plane and hotel arrangements, both of which would be paid for.

“Before anyone asks, Julia is doing room arrangements; anyone who has a problem with their arrangement can see her.”

“Why not you, you’re doing everything else.” Daniel said.

“That’s because I’m the main coordinator for this project. I handle major details, assignments, meetings, and of course, the lezioni italiano.” (Italian lessons.)

“Quando quelli cominciano?” (When do those begin?) Invidia asked.

Ariana gave her a small smile and said, “Lessons start at four PM tonight, and should last at least three hours.”

“What?!” Several people said.

“It’s the only way to get it in. And, learning a second language can sometimes be difficult. However, those who have taken language classes should have an easier time with it.”

“How long it take you to learn to be bilingual?” Natsumi asked.

“I’m trilingual,” Ariana corrected. “I was raised on two languages and picked up Japanese upon moving. For me, it wasn’t very difficult, but, that’s not what we’re talking about here…” Ariana said, then, she continued with a list of details before dismissing everyone.

“You’ll be back, right?” She asked Invidia.

Invidia nodded. “I have to go feed my cat. We ran out of food.”

“Alright then, see you later,” Ariana said before giving a small wave.

Invidia gave a brief nod in return and headed out and to her regular pet shop. It was a small, quaint place that made and sold special, organic pet food. Knowing what she wanted, Invidia quickly picked up a supply of dry and wet food and treats. She contemplated the purchase of catnip but decided against it. ‘Monica is crazy enough without this stuff…besides, it’s nothing but a legal drug for cats…’ She thought before she headed home around two-thirty and quickly fed

Monica, who tried, more than once, to climb up Invidia’s back.

“Monica, stop! I’m wearing a short skirt, so that’s not going to work.”

Monica meowed in response.

“Alright, here,” Invidia said, setting down her blue, monogrammed food bowl.

Monica rushed over and began to eat while Invidia rolled her eyes and began to write Arty a note saying that Monica had been fed and not to give her dinner because she ate late. Then, she left for her office again, arriving at three-thirty to help Ariana with set up before the crew came in at four.

“Alright, today, we’ll start with the basics,” Invidia said, turning to the whiteboard behind her and writing, in a neat, flowing cursive, the translations for “hello,” “good bye,” “please,” and

“thank you.”

“These are fairly simple, so write them down and study,” Ariana said. “We won’t spend more than a minute on those. Now, verb conjugations.” She then nodded to Invidia, who began to write again and attempted to explain the material to her oblivious coworkers.

“Why do the verbs have to change?” Blaine, asked.

“And, why must we know this?” Jack asked.

Invidia huffed and attempted her explanation again and was met with disappointment.

Seeing her trouble, Ariana stepped in. “I believe we need to try a new approach.” She said. “While Invidia’s teaching skill is fine, I have come to realize you may pick the language up easier with a new style.” She stepped in front of the board and erased Invidia’s work. “We will learn through conversation.”

Daniel raised his hand. “But, how can we converse if you don’t teach us the language?”

Quickly, Ariana reached behind her, pulled her ponytail and shook her hair out, showing its lovely, dark wave. “Sciocco! (Fool!) You do not learn Italian! You feel it in your heart and let it flow through you as naturally as blood!” 

“Side comment?” Jack said, his hand raised slightly.

“Cosa?” Ariana sighed.

“You look good with your hair down.”

“Thank you, but flattery won’t get you put in for raise consideration.”

Invidia silently laughed to herself and watched as Ariana walked around the table, sat on it, and turned to the last of the men and asked, “Come siete oggi?” (How are you today?)

“Um…fine?” He said.

“Excellent. For those of you who couldn’t figure it out, I asked Yuta how he was. It helps if you learn to read a person’s body language when they’re talking. It may help with your

comprehension.” She then turned back to Yuta and asked, “Speaking of which, how did you

figure out the answer?”

“Some of what you said. There was interest in your eyes as you spoke, as if you were concerned about my feelings. And you spoke pretty calmly.”

Ariana nodded to him and then turned to Invidia, “You try.” She said.

Invidia nodded back, stepped over towards Reiko and asked, “Quanti animali possedete?” (How many animals do you own?)

Reiko pondered before saying, “Well, I have two cats and a ferret.”

“Close, but I was looking for a number. However, I give credit for your picking up on my mentioning animals.”

“It wasn’t hard. I think ‘animali’ gave you away. Did I say it right?”

“You said it perfectly,” Ariana said as she stood. “Now, let us continue…” She headed over to the board and picked up the marker.

The lessons continued past three hours due to the increasing interest of their coworkers with the new teaching approach. They continued until it was near nine o’clock, and left on Ariana’s cue.

Invidia stepped in the door a quarter to ten and found Arty working at the computer. He turned at the sound of the door and asked, “Where have you been?”

“Work,” Invidia replied. 

“This late?”

“We began the Italian lessons today and got so into it that we lost track of time.”

“I see. And how many of these ‘students’ are men?”

“A few, but you know very well there’s nothing to worry about,” Invidia said as she made her way over and sat in Arty’s lap. “You are the only man I have eyes for. I swear it.”

They kissed and Arty smiled, saying, “Your dinner’s in the fridge. It’s steak.”

“Do you mind if I eat out here?”

“Why would I? I could use the company.”

“Aw…Arty’s lonely,” Invidia teased before standing and heading into the kitchen. There, she quickly worked on heating up her plate before re-joining Arty in the living room. She sat at the coffee table with her food and a book in hand, alternating between reading and eating.

“What are you reading?” Arty asked, curious as to what was so interesting she spent days reading.

“Macbeth,” Invidia replied. “It’s Akira’s fault.”

“Why?”

“You know, aside from a few Cometine works, this is my favorite play and I had nearly forgotten until Akira brought her copy home! She kept taking it from me, so I went out and bought my own.”

“I thought you had a copy.”

“Not of the text. Back when I read it, I borrowed it from Nova. I do, however, have two different film copies. One is an on-stage production done by a community theatre several years ago and the other is a film from all the way back in 1971.”

Arty nodded and said, “Why don’t you read some of it to me?”

“What?”

“I’d like to hear you read.”

“Um…alright,” Invidia said, setting down her fork. She picked up the book and began to flip through the pages. “Here’s what I just finished,” She said before changing her voice a bit and reading, “That which hath made the drunk hath made me bold;/What hath quenched them hath given me fire./ Hark! Peace!/It was the owl that shrieked, the fatal bellman,/Which gives the stern’st good night. He is about it./The doors are open, and the surfeited grooms/Do mock their charge with snores. I have drugged/their possets/That death and nature do contend about them,/Whether they live or die.”

Arty clapped. “Princess, that was great!”

“Thank you. Father always said I had a good handle on reading aloud. I seem to have taught myself to process the words before I read them.”

“It works well. You read beautifully. Now, could you translate that into Italian?”

“I could, but it would take a bit of time and it’s too much brain work for now.”

Arty nodded and asked, “How’s your dinner?”

“Perfect. But I could use some more juice,” Invidia said, gently shaking her empty glass.

“Alright,” Arty sighed as he rose, grabbed her glass and headed into the kitchen.

“Thank you, Darling. I love you.”

“I love you too,” Arty sighed as he filled the glass and then brought it back to her.

“I’m sorry about this, but you’re going to have make dinner for a while.”

“I figured that, but it’s alright. I can make Akira do it if I don’t feel like it.”

Invidia nodded briefly as silence came over them while he turned back to work and she turned back to and finished her dinner. Then, she asked, “Have you thought about my offer?”

“I have.”

“And?”

“I will have to talk it over with some of the high command and do some work to ensure things will be straight during my absence. But, if that works out, I would love to join you in Italy.”

“Really?” Invidia stood up.

Arty nodded.

“Arty!” Invidia hugged him. “I love you!”

“I know, I know, now…” He began to speak, but was cut off by soft, deep kiss. “Can you do that

again?” He asked.

Invidia smiled and responded with another kiss before she stood and took her dishes to be washed, then, she headed off to take a quick bath before getting ready for bed. As she brushed her hair out, the bathroom door opened slightly and she was met with a “Mew!”

“And where have you been, Missy?” She teased as Monica jumped up and sat on the sink. Invidia smiled at her and began to lightly pet her as she finished off her hair, then, she stepped out and put her pajamas on before returning for the cat. “Come here,” She said as she picked her up and set her on her shoulder.

Monica began to purr as she was petted, making Invidia smile.

‘Everyone else was right, having a pet is a great thing! I can’t believe I ever thought to give you away!’ Invidia thought as she paced about the room with the small cat, who soon began squirming.

“Alright, alright, there,” Invidia said, setting her in the basket that lay by the bed. Then, she quickly washed her hands and climbed into bed. She was joined by Arty a few minutes later and quickly cuddled up to him.

“What’s wrong? You can’t be cold,” Arty said.

“I don’t need to be cold to want to cuddle,” Invidia replied.

“True…” Arty said as he pulled her close and held her, then, he gently kissed her head. “Good night.”

“Night,” Invidia yawned before falling into a comfortable deep sleep. Shortly afterward, she found herself being pulled into a rather sweet dream where she was riding through the Italian countryside with Arty on a red scooter. She then found herself sharing a small picnic with him under a tree, and, as she leaned in to kiss him she heard what sounded like…an alarm?

“Oh, Arty!” She groaned.

“What?”

“Your stupid alarm ruined my dream!”

“Sorry, Princess. But, unlike you, I have to go to work.”

“I’m going in later, remember?” Invidia snapped, then, she rolled over and snuggled back into the blankets in an attempt to go back to sleep. She had just started to fall into it when something touched her head.

“Monica, stop,” She said, knowing now that she was being batted at by the cat.

Monica responded with more batting, prompting Invidia to get up.

‘Why does the world insist on making me wake up early?’ She thought, making the decision to get up. She quickly made the bed and headed into the kitchen with Monica following. Sighing, Invidia got out the cat food and mixed together the wet and dry food that made up Monica’s meals. “Here, now leave me alone.”

“Oh, stop it,” Arty said as he stepped into the kitchen in his black tiger uniform.

“Why are you wearing that?”

“I’m in charge of flight training today.”

Invidia nodded slowly and walked off to take her shower. She came out feeling a lot better, and after some contemplation, she settled on a simple, strapless, navy-blue sundress for the day’s attire.

“You look nice,” Arty complimented upon her return. He quickly moved from the stove to give her a light kiss before turning back to his breakfast.

“Where’s mine?” Invidia asked in a whiny voice.

“You have to make it.”

“Arty!”

“Sorry, Princess. I don’t have time to make two meals. You’re a big girl, feed yourself,” He teased, giving her a light pat on the head.

Invidia huffed and got to work on making herself a small, simple breakfast of cereal, tea and fruit before sitting down to finish off her latest article just as the kids appeared.

“Good morning, Invidia-Mama, Dad,” Akira said. 

“Yeah, morning,” Ryou said.

“Morning,” Invidia replied half-heartedly.

“You okay?” Akira asked.

“I’m fine,” Invidia replied quickly.

“She’s working,” Arty explained.

Akira simply nodded and made herself the same sort of breakfast Invidia had while Ryou grabbed a doughnut.

“That’s not a very nutritious breakfast,” Arty said, taking the doughnut. “Eat some real food.”

“Come on Dad! Lay off.”

“Listen to your father,” Invidia said before finishing her tea. “You can’t go to school full of sugar. Have some fruit or something. I’m going to stop buying those.”

Ryou rolled his eyes and thought, ‘Why did he have to marry a health food advocate?’

“Alright, I’ll leave you alone. I have to get going anyway,” Arty said as he put the doughnut in his mouth and held it there while he gathered a few papers.

Noticing Arty’s action, Invidia stomped over and promptly pulled it from his mouth. “No!” She said. “What sense does it make to scold your son for eating these and then eat them yourself? Besides, you already had breakfast.” With that, she promptly threw the pastry in the trash.

“You’re mean,” Arty teased.

“Tell me something I don’t know,” Invidia replied, earning a small smile and kiss from Arty.

“I’ll see you later Princess,” He said. “You too.” He nodded to the kids.

“Alright, bye,” Invidia said. Then, they kissed again and he headed out the door while she headed back to her laptop.

“What are you working on?” Akira asked.

“I’m finishing up the final edits on an article that’s due today. I swear, when Ariana edits she simply cracks open the pen and lets the ink run on the page,” Invidia said, handing Akira the first, printed draft.

“Man. She tore you apart.”

“Tell me about it. She did that a lot when I first started, but now it’s rare.”

“It still hurts,” Akira replied, handing back the paper.

Invidia nodded. “It does, but, she’s just doing her job and most of these edits make sense.”

Akira nodded just as Ryou joined them with a bowl of fruit salad.

“Better,” Invidia said, receiving an eye roll in response. “Don’t give me that! It’s for your own good!”

Ryou ignored her and began to eat while she continued to type. Soon, to her relief, the kids left for school, leaving her in a peaceful quiet.

She hummed to herself as she finished off the last of the edits and sent the article, via email, to Ariana. She then sat back and found herself feeling bored. ‘Now that that’s done, I don’t have anything to do until eleven…’ Invidia thought as she looked at the clock. ‘Maybe I could pay a visit to someone; Derek said he was taking off today…’  She then made the decision to drop by the Wildstar place and thought that with some sweets, she could probably coax Derek into taking her out for lunch after her meeting. Smiling at the thought, Invidia got up and pulled the cake she had made for Arty two days ago. She quickly and carefully cut a piece, set it on a plate and wrapped it, hoping that it would work as a bribe.

‘Perfect…’ She thought, then, she carefully picked it up, grabbed her purse and headed out the door. She arrived within twenty minutes and almost let herself in, until she remembered the time.

‘It would be rude to have him wake up and see me sneaking around…’ She thought before she put her keys back in her purse and knocked. She stepped back and waited, and, after receiving no answer after five minutes, she knocked again, this time, just a bit harder.

‘I know you’re home!’ She thought. ‘Your car is in the driveway! Answer the door dammit!’

After five more minutes, she got fed up and let herself in. “Derek!” She called as she slipped off her sandals and made her way to the kitchen.

“Invidia?” A voice said a few, short minutes later.

“Nova?” Invidia turned to her, and studied her appearance. She was dressed in only a light, sky-blue, tank top and white shorts that looked as if they were put on in a hurry. The messy look matched her hair and face, which was flushed.

Soon, the lack of reaction became very obvious and Invidia smiled.

“What?” Nova asked.

“After waiting forever, this is what I find,” Invidia said in a teasing voice. “You couldn’t stop for five minutes and let me in. You are such a slut.”

Nova almost contradicted her, until she realized Invidia was only teasing and replied, “Yes, but I’m a happy slut.”

Invidia laughed. “Where’s Derek? And, why are you home?”

“I have the night shift tonight, and Derek’s upstairs.”

“Go get him and tell him I have something for him.”

“Alright,” Nova sighed and headed back up the stairs, returning a few minutes later with Derek, who had thrown on only a simple pair of denim, cut-off shorts.

“Okay Invidia, what do you want?”

“Derek! Buongiorno!” (Derek! Good morning!) Invidia said as she hugged him.

“Wait…what?” Derek said with a raised eyebrow, his brain unable to process much at the moment.

Invidia smiled at his reaction and decided to tease him a bit, saying, “Gli ho portato qualcosa per voi.” (I have brought something for you.)

“Um…sì?” Derek responded, unsure of how to react, while, behind him, Nova laughed to herself. “Invidia, is there a reason you’re speaking foreign?” He asked, unable to process the language.

“È denominato " Italiano" il mio amore.” (It is called “Italian” my love.) 

“Wait a minute!” Nova said. “È il mio amore, non il vostro!” (He is my love, not yours!)

“Nova…what?!” Derek said, looking at her with a confused expression. ‘What the hell is going on here?’ He thought.

“Posso cambiare facilmente quel fatto,” (It can easily change that fact.) Invidia responded to Nova.

“Non se ho qualche cosa dire a questo proposito,” (Not if I have anything to say about it.) Nova replied.

Confused, Derek looked from one woman to the other as they went back in forth in Italian, questioning how either of them new the language so fluently. ‘I have no idea what’s going on here, but, I should probably find out…’

“Okay, what is going on here?” He finally asked.

“Niente che dobbiate sapere,” (Nothing that you must know.) Invidia replied.

“Invidia! Ha una destra da conoscere! Ed arresto che parla in una lingua che non capisce!”(Invidia! He has a right to know! And stop speaking in a language he does not understand!)

“Mi arresterò quando vi arrestate.” (I will stop when you stop.)

“Will both of you, please speak English?! Or Japanese? Or something I can understand?” Derek said, becoming increasingly frustrated at both them and his little understanding of their

conversation.

“Sorry, Dear,” Nova said. “She started it.”

“Scusilo?” (Excuse me?) Invidia said. “You’re the one who contradicted me!”

“Wait a minute,” Derek said, suddenly realizing something. “How do you both know Italian?”

“I started taking classes six years ago and continued for three years,” Invidia explained. “I liked it, and it wasn’t hard at all.”

“I studied in high school and was even part of a foreign exchange program one year,” Nova said.

“I traveled to Italy my second year. Then, I had to take some filler classes at the community college for unfilled credits during med school and picked it up again,” Nova explained. “I thought you knew that.”

“I know you took it, but I thought it was just a filler you were pushing to pass. And why did you never tell me you could speak it fluently? Either of you?”

Nova and Invidia looked at each other, then at Derek and said in unison, “You never asked.”

“Well…I…Uh…Never mind,” Derek said, not wanting to bother with them any longer.

“Aw…don’t be like that. I got you something,” Invidia said, then, she stepped into the kitchen and returned with the cake.

“What’s that?” Nova asked with a raised eyebrow.

“My triple chocolate cake.”

“What do you want?” Derek asked.

“Why does everyone ask me that when I make this?”

“Because you usually want something, now, what is it?”

“I want to go out to lunch with you after my meeting.”

“Invidia…” Derek sighed. “No.”

“Please?” Invidia said, giving him her traditional, “sad eyes.” “I brought you cake!”

“That’s not going to work.”

“Fine, I’ll eat the cake then,” Invidia pouted.

“You do that,” Derek replied before heading upstairs.

Invidia shrugged, leaned on the counter in the kitchen and waited. Within five minutes, Derek came back. 

 “Yes?” Invidia said.

He sighed. “You know I can’t pass up your cake.”

Invidia smiled. “In that case, I’ll meet you at that little bistro at one, and we’re each paying half.

“Fine.”

“Thank you,” Invidia said as she hugged him and glanced at the clock. “I should probably go before I’m late. Bye, Nova.”

“Bye,” Nova nodded.

“And, I’ll see you later,” She said to Derek before giving him a light, gentle kiss on the lips. Then, she quickly left before anything more could be said.

As soon as she was gone, Nova turned to Derek, “And she calls me a slut,” She teased.

Invidia, who hadn’t heard her, smiled as she got into her car and headed off for the day’s meeting, which, she knew was for further assignment and hotel information. ‘I don’t know why Ariana just doesn’t email this stuff…I think she just likes taking time out of our days.’ Invidia thought as she drove on, arriving within thirty minutes with twenty to spare. ‘I’m early…good. I need to speak with her anyway.’ She then headed up to the office floor and straight to Ariana’s office, which was, thankfully, open. “Ariana?” She said.

“I was wondering when you’d arrive. I got your article this morning,” Ariana replied, with the usual, unreadable gaze she gave when critiquing others’ work.

“And?”

“You made the edits as I asked, and I see, as usual, you made your own additions.”

“I decided to do some more research.”

“Well…It’s perfect. I sent it in for finalization a few minutes ago,” Ariana reported, now smiling.

“Thank you,” Invidia said, returning the smile.

“Now, I also wanted to speak to you about the trip. If you husband, does join us, it will effect the rooming situation. Currently, you’re in my room, but, if he decides to come, you may have to pay for your own room. We only rented so many, and, no offense against your husband, but I don’t want to room with him.”

“Well, we wouldn’t want you to room with us anyway, makes it harder to be alone.” 

“Makes it harder to bang, you mean,” Ariana teased.

“What we plan to do in our room is none of your business!” Invidia snapped.

“It will be my business when I have to hear it.”

“We do not make that much noise!”

“We’ll see about that,” Ariana replied with a sly, superior smile.

“I hate you,” Invidia replied.

“I know.”

Invidia rolled her eyes and turned to leave.

“Wait. Can you do me a favor?”

“Why would I want to do you a favor after you’ve teased me?”

“Because I control your payroll.”

“Fine, what?”

“Make twelve copies of this and bring eight to the meeting. The others will go straight to the editors. Then, I need you to go into the meeting room and make sure everyone’s assignments are straight.”

“Why can’t you do it?”

“I’m busy,” Ariana replied, holding up two articles. “These have to go through final edits today, and there’s a lot to be done with them, trust me.”

“Who wrote them?”

“The interns. It’s their first real assignment. Miyuki writes well, but the other two need help and a lot of it.”

“Whatever,” Invidia muttered, before running off to do as she was told. Afterwards, she joined the meeting and listened while Ariana went over assignments and room details for two and a half hours. Then, she left to pick up her dry cleaning and headed downtown to meet Derek for lunch, where, she attempted to teach him the Italian names for the menu choices.

“You’re pronunciation’s all wrong!” She laughed after he severely butchered a word.

“Language isn’t my forte,” Derek admitted, laughing.

“Nova tells me you know some Spanish.”

“Just a bit. I had to learn some phrases to get around for a trip to Spain years back.”

“I remember…You and Nova spent two years planning that trip.”

Derek nodded. “Setsuna was only nine at the time, but, she remembers her Spanish better than I do.”

“That’s because you’re getting old,” she teased.

“You’re not much younger than I am,” Derek pointed out.

“Shut up,” Invidia muttered, picking at her salad as she did so.

Derek gave a small laugh. “Oh, come on. Don’t be like that.”

Invidia ignored him.

“Alright, I get it. You’re not old, alright?”

“That’s better,” She said, lifting her head.

“You’re too much, you know that, right?”

“I know,” Invidia said, giving him a smile similar to the one she greeted Arty with when she walked in the door two nights later. “They’re finally getting the hang of it!” She reported.  

“Great. You’re going to have to make your own dinner, we ordered out for pizza.”

Invidia made a face. “Yuck,” She said as she headed into the kitchen, where, she got together the ingredients for a simple, sandwich wrap. 

“When you come back out, I have some news for you,” Arty said.

“Good news or bad news?”

“It’s a surprise.”

“You know I hate surprises,” Invidia said, hearing a small “mew” as she spoke. “What, Monica?” She asked, staring at her as she sat on the floor.

Monica meowed again and Invidia sighed and set a small piece of turkey on the ground for her.

“You’re spoiled,” She teased.

“Just like her owner,” Arty teased.

“Hey!”

“You know it’s true, Daddy’s Little Princess.”

“Oh, be quiet,” Invidia snapped, carrying her food into the living room, where, Arty sat on the couch reading. “Now, what’s your news?”

“I’ve been talking with the higher ups and, after working out schedules and tasks, and all of that I’m happy to say that I’ll be joining you in Italy.”

“You’re serious,” Invidia said, reading his face.

“I am.”

“Oh! Arty I love you!” Invidia then jumped up and hugged him. “We’re going to have a great time! I promise! I need to call Ariana…”

“Why?”

“Because your attendance on the trip affects rooming arrangements,” Invidia explained as she picked up the phone and dialed Ariana.

“Ciao?” Ariana answered, balancing the phone between her shoulder and her head as she stirred a pot of tomato sauce.

“Arty just told me he’s coming on the trip.”

“I’ll send you the hotel information so you can book a room. If you can, try and get one on the sixth floor with the rest of us. And, you know the flight information.”

“Yes,” Invidia replied.

“Good, now, I have to feed my husband.”

“He can’t cook?”

“He can. He’s just lazy!” She said.

“I heard that!” Takeshi called from the living room, making Invidia laugh.

“He heard you,” Invidia teased.

“He was supposed to!” Ariana said before hanging up.

As soon as Invidia put the phone down, she brought her plate to the computer desk and sat.

“What are you doing now?” Arty asked.

“Setting up your flight, and, tomorrow I’ll call the hotel. We have to book our own room, which is preferred, because I’d like a suite,” Invidia explained as she brought up the website Ariana directed them to for flight information. She smiled when she saw that the flight had yet to be completely filled and made the decision to spring for first class, then, smiling to herself, she entered the code Ariana had given for her ticket and upgraded it. ‘She said the tickets would be distributed the day before the trip so that we would not loose them…If I put Arty’s with our lot, I can retrieve them at the same time…’ She thought as she did just that, the only exception being that, it was charged to her account rather than the company account being used for the basic expenses of the trip. She then smiled to herself, knowing that it was only the first step in her plan.

Over the next week and a half, she spent every minute preparing for the trip in and out of the workplace. At work, she assisted with minor task and the teaching of Italian to her coworkers, who now knew enough to get around. At home, she began packing and checking and rechecking her bags to make sure she had everything.

“Work camera…My camera…laptop…” Invidia muttered as she double-checked her bag the night before.

“Princess, you’ve checked yourself three times already,” Arty said. “Come to bed. You know we have to wake up early tomorrow.”

“Thank Ariana for that! Her and her five AM flights!”

“I don’t mind the time,” Arty shrugged.

“That’s because you’re a freak who lives in early morning hours!” Invidia snapped.

“Alright, I think it’s time for you to go to bed. You’re cranky.”

“Am not!”

“You are and you know it,” Arty said, grabbing her wrist. “To bed with you.”

“Fine,” Invidia sighed. “Just let me change…”

Arty let her go and she headed into the bathroom, coming out in a silk set that consisted of long, dark-violet pants and a matching, short-sleeve top. “You look cute,” Arty complimented.

“I feel like a baby, going to bed at eight-thirty.”

“You have to wake up at three in the morning,” Arty reminded her.

Invidia rolled her eyes. ‘Stupid Ariana…wanting us to meet and hour before our flight…’

“Come on, don’t be like that. You know as well as I do that it’s smart to have us meet up first.”

Invidia ignored him, climbed into bed and forced herself into a short, five and a half hour sleep that ended with the ringing of her alarm. She groaned as she turned it off and sat up to find the bed empty.

‘He really is a freak!’ She thought as she got up and began to sift through the dresses in her closet, finally settling on a light, spaghetti-strap, lavender sundress and white sandals before heading into the kitchen.

“Morning, Princess,” Arty greeted her as he sat at the table in a causal outfit that consisted of khaki shorts and a dark, black polo shirt.

Invidia responded with a groan and began to make herself some tea.

“Do you want something for breakfast?”

“No. I want to go back to bed.”

“You can sleep on the plane,” Arty said. “And don’t be so down, this is supposed to be exciting.”

“I’ll let you know when the excitement kicks in.”

Arty sighed and gave up, knowing that there was no use in arguing with her at that hour in the morning.

“When’s Hardy coming?” Invidia asked as she pulled the kettle off and poured it over the tea bag in her cup. After some convincing and a bribe, Hardy agreed to drive both Invidia and Arty to the airport so they didn’t risk leaving the car unattended in a parking lot for two weeks.

“Three-thirty.”

Invidia nodded and joined him at the table, where, she stared into her cup for a few minutes before picking it up and taking the first sip.

“You really should eat something,” Arty said after a long silence.

“I’m not hungry and I’m tired. Leave me alone!” Invidia snapped. 

“Okay, okay, geez…” Arty muttered. “I’m going to go get our bags.”

“You do that,” Invidia muttered, as Arty got up and headed into the bedroom, coming back with his suitcase and two of Invidia’s.

“What do you need three bags for?” He asked.

“Two are filled with clothes and supplies and the last one is work stuff. My laptop, cameras, assignment papers, et cetera,” Invidia replied half-heartedly.

“You’re going to get charged for this, you know.”

“So? I have more than enough money to cover it.”

“How are you going to carry all of this?”

“They’re suitcases, they have wheels,” Invidia said in a ‘duh’ tone as she stood and washed her tea cup. “I’ll take two and you take the other one.”

“Alright,” Arty sighed.

“I love you,” Invidia said.

“Yeah, yeah, I know.”

Invidia gave a small smile, and headed into the bathroom, using what she had on hand to put herself together before Hardy arrived and drove them to the airport. After several security checks and a double-check of the tickets, Invidia found and met up with Ariana and half of the members on the project.

“Where’s everyone else?” She asked.

“Late or lost, or both,” Ariana said.

“Hello, Ariana,” Arty said. “You look nice.”

“Grazie,” (Thank you,) Ariana replied, adjusting the white headband she wore as a contrast to her strapless, black sundress with a white sash that was adorned at the right with a bow. The outfit was completed by a pair of black, high-heeled sandals straight from Italy, courtesy of her grandparents.

“And, who are you?” Mrs. Ikumi, the editor-in-chief asked.

“Arthur Jefferson, Invidia’s husband,” Arty said, extending his hand.

“He is going to be joining us on our trip and is paying his own way. I wrote it in the reports,” Ariana said.

“He promised to help me with my work,” Invidia said. 

“I remember reading something about this in Ariana’s log,” Mrs. Ikumi said, shaking Arty’s hand. “Nice to meet you…Arthur?”

“Call me Arty.”

“Everyone else does,” Invidia chimed in.

“Alight, Arty,” Mrs. Ikumi smiled as two of their missing members approached.

“How many are missing?” Julia, the editor from sector five, asked.

Ariana did a head count. “Now? Three. Jack, Daniel and Reiko.”

“Well, we still have forty-five minutes until takeoff,” Rihito, the editor from sector three, said, glancing at his watch.

“I don’t care! I told them to be here an hour early! They’re already fifteen minutes late!” Ariana snapped, not much of a morning person herself.

“It’ll do no good to get mad at him, Mrs. Sakamoto,” Mrs. Ikumi said.

“Besides, Jack’s over there,” Blaine, said, pointing ahead of them to the security check.

“And Reiko just called me saying she got held up at home,” Natsumi said. “She said she’d be here in about ten minutes.”

“Whatever,” Ariana huffed.

“It’s about time I found you!” A voice said.

Ariana turned to Daniel, who slowly approached them.

“Sorry I’m late, I went to go drop my bags off and spent twenty minutes being lost, then, I found this guy,” Daniel said, pointing to the man next to him. “Says he knows you.” He looked at Ariana.

“Takeshi?” Ariana asked.

“You left in such a rush this morning, you didn’t even get my gifts,” Takeshi said, holding out a small bag. “One is for you and the others are for your grandparents.”

Ariana smiled, then, surprising everyone, she fell into her husband’s arms. “Non lo merito, il mio amore.” (I do not deserve you, my love.)

“Né I, voi,” (Nor I, you), He replied. Then, they shared a deep, loving kiss, as Arty asked,

“What did they say?”

“I’m not telling you,” Invidia said. “It’s sweet, though.”

“I didn’t know he spoke Italian,” Julia said as Ariana re-joined the group.

“I taught him. It took years, but it was worth it, now, it’s fun to confuse his parents with fake arguments.”

“You? Fun?” Jack teased as he stepped up behind her. “Could’ve fooled me.”

Ariana slapped him on the shoulder. “Shut it,” She said.

“These are the people you work with?” Arty whispered to Invidia.

“Yes,” She sighed, gently leaning her head on his arm. “Stay,” She ordered.

Arty gave a small chuckle and obeyed as everyone hung back and waited for the last member of the group to show up. Finally, at four thirty, she joined them and they left for the gate at the sound of the call. Upon boarding, Ariana did a quick head check and stepped back a moment, looking the three rows and realizing there was an empty place.

“Where’s Invidia?” She asked.

“I didn’t see her come back this way,” Natsumi said.

Ariana stepped back a moment, then, remembering the tickets she had handed her, she turned back to the first-class section and sighed.

“Tell me again why you changed you ticket,” Ariana said, taking her place behind Invidia.

“I travel no less than first class,” Invidia replied.

“No, you’re a brat,” Arty teased.

“If I had gotten Father to pay, I would be, but I paid for it myself.”

“With his money.”

“Shut up.”

Ariana laughed. “I can’t believe I never realized it before, but you two are really cute together.”

“I haven’t heard that in years,” Arty said.

“A little memory refresher is always nice, though,” Ariana said before sitting back.

Invidia ignored her and sat back as well, falling asleep soon after takeoff and being woken up by Arty three hours later.

“Princess, get up,” He said, gently shaking her.

“Where are we? What time is it?”

“It’s eight o’clock our time and I have no idea where we are.”

“And why did you wake me?”

“They’re serving a snack soon.”

“So? I don’t eat airline food, you know that.”

“I brought you something,” Arty said as he stood a retrieved his carry-on duffle bag from the overhead compartment.

“Is it a blanket? Because I’m cold.”

“Where’s your blankie?” He teased, whispering so only she heard.

“First off, it’s not a blankie, and second, it’s in my suitcase.”

“So you did bring it.”

“Of course, it’s a bed cover, remember?”

“It’s a blankie.”

“Is not!”

“Is too!”

“Is not!”

Arty laughed, “Whatever you say, here.” He handed her a muffin.

“What’s this?”

“Your snack, courtesy of my mother.”

“Thank you,” Invidia said, carefully taking it from him.

“You have any more of those? Airline food sickens me,” Julia said.

“No,” Arty said. “But, I think I have something else…are you opposed to cherry Danishes?”

“That depends, who made it?”

“Invidia.”

“I’m not really into poison.”

“Just eat it!” Invidia snapped. “You’ve eaten my cake before, haven’t you?”

“Someone’s cranky,” Ariana teased as Julia accepted the treat Arty gave her.

“Oh, shut it. Why are you so cheerful anyway? There’s nine hours left on this flight!” Invidia snapped, turning around to face her.

“People who haven’t flown to Italy, shouldn’t,” Ariana replied, ignoring Invidia’s attitude.

Invidia glared. “I hate you.”

“I know,” Ariana smiled and turned back to the book she had been reading. 

Across the aisle, Mrs. Ikumi gave a small chuckle and said, “Settle down, you two. I’d hate to give two grown women time out.”

Invidia ignored her and Arty handed her a book of her own.

“Here, read this and be happy.”

Ariana craned her neck forward and glanced at the book, then she stood and grabbed it. “Let me see that!” She said as she opened it, found a place and began to read, in Italian, the monologue from scene five. As soon as she finished, she glanced at Invidia.

“Show off,” Invidia muttered, snatching it back.

“And just how do you know that?” Arty asked.

“I once translated it for a literature project in college. It’s not difficult to bring it back into my memory when needed.”

“I repeat, show off,” Invidia said, turning away from her.

Ariana shrugged and sat back with her own book, satisfying Invidia.

‘I don’t need her trying to show off! Not now anyway, it’s too early for that!’ Invidia thought, alternating between reading and eating until Arty got her attention.

“I bought you something the other day,” He said. “I thought it might help with the long flight.”

“Yes?” Invidia said, looking at him with curious eyes.

“Close your eyes.”

Invidia did as she was told and heard rustling as Arty sieved through his bag again and more as he set something on the tray in front of her and said, “You can open them now.”

Invidia did so and smiled, “Another coloring book? Do you like treating me like a baby?” She teased.

“You are a baby, you’re my baby,” Arty said, then, he gently kissed her cheek.

Invidia threw him a quick smile and opened the book. “What do you think, red or blue for this girl?”

“That depends, what color is her hair?”

“Black.”

“Then either works, it depends on how you modify the gown.”

Invidia slowly nodded and set several shades of blue in front of her and spent a rather peaceful two hours modifying and coloring before Ariana and Rihito roped her into a card game. Then, she slept for awhile before being woken up four hours later by Arty.

“Invidia! Look!” He said, pointing out the window.

“What? It’s a skyline,” She said. 

“An Italian skyline,” Ariana said.

“Wait a minute…that means…” Invidia started to speak, but was cut off by the pilot, who announced their landing. ‘Finally…’ She thought as she, and everyone else around her prepared to land. “What time is it, anyway?”

“Ten AM,” Ariana said, looking at her watch.

“But, we left at five, and…”

“Venice is seven hours behind Tokyo,” Ariana explained. “I always have at least one clock on Venice time so I don’t end up calling my family at three AM.”

“I thought it was only your grandparents who live here,” Julia said.

“No. I’ve got a few other family members around, I jut think of them first. Besides, my Nonna always claimed me as her favorite.”

“So, you’re a show off in your own family too,” Invidia said.

“I’m an only child, so, yes. But, you know all about that, don’t you?”

“There’s nothing wrong with being an only child,” Arty said, then, he threw a glance to Invidia. “Even a royal one.”

Invidia smiled at him and Ariana rolled her eyes, but, she and everyone else stayed quiet through the landing and let Ariana take charge when they entered the airport.

“Grab your bags and stay at the claim until everything’s been collected. It’ll be easier that way,” she ordered.

“She’s treating us like children…” Tina muttered.

“It’ll keep you in line,” Julia said as Ariana pulled Invidia off to the side.

“What?” Invidia whined, groggy from the ride.

“We’re the only ones who speak the language fluently, so I need your help getting them out of here.”

“Why me?”

“Because we can actually read the signs.”

“Fine,” Invidia sighed, her voice and eyes heavy with sleep.

“Princess?” Arty said, coming up behind her. “I got your bags.”

“Grazie,” Invidia yawned.

“Mrs. Ikumi says that there’ll be a guide waiting to escort us to the hotel,” Ariana said as she pushed through the crowd to retrieve her luggage. And, after everyone had their bags straight Ariana turned to the group and said, “One last reminder. What’s the first thing said to a person if you’re lost or trying to start up a conversation?”

The crew sighed and replied, “Faccialo parli inglese?” (Do you speak English?)

“Great, let’s go,” Ariana said as she and Invidia took the lead, asking questions and directing the crew through the airport until they met up with the guide Mrs. Ikumi hired, who ushered them into cabs and led them to the hotel.

“Nice choice…” Arty nodded as he stepped into his and Invidia’s suite. “And there’s a balcony, of course…”

Invidia nodded as she stepped in, immediately dropped her bags and landed on the bed.

“Princess, no. You can’t just sleep,” Arty said, pulling her up.

“Why not?” Invidia whined. “I’m tired.”

“I know, but you should really get cleaned up first. So get up, take a shower, and put on some proper pajamas, then you can sleep.”

Invidia nodded slowly, and did as she was told, and, after a long, hot shower and settling on a long, comfortable, short-sleeve, lavender nightgown she climbed into bed and practically collapsed. She was asleep within minutes, and, after seeing this, Arty smiled and gently draped her black blanket over her. Arty joined her a while later and they found themselves up and on the balcony at two AM.

“What is there to do at two in the morning?” Invidia sighed.

“It’s nine AM Tokyo time,” Arty said. “It makes sense that we’re up. Besides, there is something we can do at this time.”

Invidia turned to him. “No, Arty. I’m a mess and not in the mood.”

“Oh well, I tried,” He said, gently wrapping his arm around her shoulders and drawing her closer.

“It’s beautiful here.”

“Hopefully it’ll still be beautiful in the day time. If we ever manage to stay awake.”

“I’m sure we’ll get used to the time change. It’s why we have the first three days off.”

“Good thing too, I wanted to spend some off-time with you before getting to work.”

“We’ll have off-time in the evenings,” Invidia said. “Then we’re free to go out to dinner together.”

“And have you read the menu to me?” Arty teased.

Invidia smiled. “Why don’t we try and force ourselves to sleep? We’ll never adjust if we wander around at two in the morning.”

“Fine,” Arty sighed as Invidia led him back into bed and cuddled up next to him. She spent an hour and half just lying with him, comfortable in his arms. Soon, she closed her eyes in an attempt to go to sleep and eventually succeeded two hours later, waking up again at eight.

‘Hopefully, I’ll be on a regular schedule now…’ She thought as she sat up.

“Buongiorno, mio Principessa,” Arty said, coming up behind her as he pulled on a dark-red t-shirt over a pair of denim shorts.

“Morning, Arty,” Invidia said.

“Hurry and get dressed, they just started serving breakfast downstairs.”

Invidia nodded, got up, picked out a few clothing items and headed into the bathroom for her shower. She came out in a dark-violet, off-the-shoulder top that stopped at her elbows and a medium-length black skirt that she paired with black sandals and her comet necklace.

“Ready to go?”Arty asked, pulling on a pair of black sneakers.

Invidia nodded and, together, they headed downstairs, where, they caught the scene of Ariana leaving.

“And where are you going this early in the morning?” Invidia teased.

“To see my grandparents.”

“Aren’t you going to eat?” Arty asked.

Ariana shook her head. “Nonna will feed me, she always does.” At that, she headed out the door and to a local shop, where she had called ahead and rented a little Vespa scooter for the duration of the trip to help her get around. The one she had chosen was a shining, dark blue, and resembled the one her grandfather used to take her out on when she was young. And, after assuring the owner that she was a former native and well-trained on the handling of the small vehicle, she took off, arriving at the small, country home within an hour and a half.

‘It’s great to be back!’ Ariana thought as she took her helmet off and shook out her hair. She took in a deep breath, glad to be in the country and stepped up to the door, smiling when she heard her grandfather’s grumbling as her grandmother opened the door, smiling at the sight.

“Nonna!” Ariana said, holding her arms out.

“Ariana Principessa, what are you doing here?” Her grandmother, Gianna, said, willingly accepting her hug and then kissing her on both cheeks. “Paolo, come out and say “hello” to your

granddaughter,” She called to her grandfather.

“Well, well, well, look what Bambina dragged in,” He teased, referring to their gray-and-white cat.

“I don’t look that bad, do I Nonno?” Ariana asked. Looking at her attire, which consisted of simple, black t-shirt and a denim skirt with a black headband, a white belt for contrast and black flats. 

“Of course not. Siete la mia bella Principessa.” (You are my beautiful princess.)

“I was named as such for a reason,” Ariana said, leaning down to give him a light kiss on the cheek.

“Yes, my dear Ariana Principessa Cassini.”

“It’s Sakamoto now, you know that.”

Paolo waved her off with his hand. “Nonsense, once a Cassini always a Cassini.”

Ariana smiled and Gianna asked, “Have you eaten yet?”

Ariana shook her head.

“We can’t have that, can we? Come and sit, I’ll find you something to eat.” Gianna gently took Ariana’s hand, led her into the kitchen and had her sit at the table. She soon produced a plate of eggs, fruit salad, and a flaky pastry.

“Grazie Nonna.”

“No problem, Darling. How have you been?” Gianna asked, setting a cup of coffee in front of

her granddaughter.

“Fine.”

“I see you haven’t lost your language,” Paolo said.

Ariana shook her head. “I could never. It’s a part of me.”

“Don’t talk with your mouth full, it’s not ladylike,” Gianna scolded.

Ariana gave a small nod of apology and continued to eat, not saying another word until she had finished and Paolo said, “Good to know. You moved away so young.”

“I know. It was lonely being the only Italian-speaking twelve-year-old in a Japanese middle school. Luckily, they did a bit of teaching in English and I had someone to help me. After a few months I picked up the language more easily.”

“I remember, by your second year you were quite fluent,” Gianna said. “Though it was a shame to loose my favorite granddaughter because of my son’s job.”

“It was a great opportunity, and I’m glad Papa took it. I can’t imagine my life being any different.”

“What are you doing here, again?”

“Work. My magazine is doing full coverage on Venice’s fashion week, but, the crew and I have three days to relax. I figured we could go out to dinner or something…”

“I’ve got a better idea, why don’t you bring them over?” Gianna said.

Ariana stared at her, thinking she was nuts. “All twelve of them?!”

“Why not? We have a big yard and it’d be a nice challenge.”

Ariana laughed. “No way in hell. I love you Nonna, but, you’re crazy. Besides, they’ve got places to be, and some of the reporters aren’t too fond of me.”

“What about that nice girl…what was her name? Juliet?” Paolo said.

 “What is with you and blondes?” Gianna asked, slapping him with a hand towel, making Ariana smile.

“Julia. She’s with us, and I think she’d love to see you again. There’s also this other one I’ve warmed up to. We hired her back in January and somehow we’ve become great friends. Her husband is with us too.”

“Who?”

“Her name is Invidia Savela, and unfortunately Nonno, she’s raven-haired.”

“Wait…she’s that princess, right?” Paolo asked. “I remember seeing her somewhere…”

“I sent you a picture of all of us during the bridal edition photo shoot. She modeled some of our wedding and bridesmaid gowns for it.”

“I remember,” Gianna said, stepping out and into the living room, where, amongst their picture collection lay a golden frame of girls in white. “You all look like little girls playing wedding day.” She handed it to Ariana, who smiled.

“I know. It was a great shoot.”

“Now, which one is she?” Paolo asked, leaning forward to see.

“Her,” Ariana pointed.

“The one with the…whatever that is on her head?”

“I think it’s some sort of old ranking pin, since she’s a princess, but, yes.”

“She’s kind of cute, maybe I can switch from blondes.”

“Nonno!” Ariana shoved him over. “I’ll call and ask,” She said, pulling her phone out of her pocket. 

 “What?” Invidia asked when she answered, aggravated to be interrupted. She held Arty’s hand as they mad their way down a street full of small, quaint shops.

“You may or may not believe this, but, my grandmother wants to have you over for dinner tonight.”

“And?”

“Would you like to come?”

“Hold on,” Invidia said, putting her hand over the receiver. She turned to Arty and asked, “Do you want to go to dinner at Ariana’s grandparents’ place?”

“Why?” Arty asked. 

“They invited us.”

“I thought we were supposed to spend the night together.”

“We can do that tomorrow, besides, now we don’t have to pay for the food.”

“This is true…”

Invidia turned back to the phone and said, “We’ll come, all you have to do it lead the way.”

“Alright, meet me in the hotel lobby at five thirty,” Ariana said.

“Will do.” At that, Invidia hung up and grabbed Arty’s hand. “Let’s go to the park,” She said, “I saw one awhile back.”

“Alright, Princess,” Arty said.

Invidia smiled and gently leaned her head on his shoulder, together they walked the short distance to the park Invidia had mentioned, where he led her to a fountain and gave her a coin.

“What’s this for?” She asked.

“The fountain,” Arty said in a ‘duh’ tone. “I thought we could wish together.”

Invidia smiled, and nodded.

“On the count of three. Not two, not four, but three. If you throw on two you will be throwing too early, if you throw on four, it will be too late. So, on three and only three.”

“Alright, I get it,” Invidia said, rolling her eyes at his bad humor. Then, she closed hers and waited for Arty to count, and, on cue, they threw their coins into the fountain.

“What’d you wish for?” Arty asked.

“I’ll tell you when it comes true,” Invidia said, reaching for his hand.

Arty smiled and said, “How about we take a long walk? We’ve got awhile until lunch.”

Invidia nodded and began to walk in step with him, then, she said, “When we get home, I’m burning all of your ancient Monty Python stuff.”

“What? Why?”

“Because it’s given you a really bad sense of humor.”

“Do that and I burn both Macbeth films and your favorite Cometine one.”

“You wouldn’t!”

“I’ve got a lighter and I’m not afraid to use it.”

“Fine,” Invidia pouted. “Keep your cheap British humor…”

“I will.” 

Invidia sighed and rested her head back on his shoulder as he led her through the park, and, soon, something caught her eye. “Arty!” She said, shaking him.

“What?”Arty asked, startled by the shaking. 

“Look…” She said, pointing to a little cart.

“I am not buying you gelato at ten in the morning.”

“Come on, I don’t have any cash on me.”

“Invidia, do you know how much sugar is in that stuff?”

“A lot.”

“Yes, and I’m not…”

“Arty, I am not a child. I think I can make my own decisions when it comes to sweets.”

“I guess, but…”

Invidia held out her hand and Arty sighed.

“Fine, here,” He said, handing her a few coins.

“I love you.”

“Of course you do…” He muttered as she walked off. He shook his head as he watched her, thinking, ‘She’s like a child sometimes…it’s kind of cute though…’ He thought, as we watched her then and later when they joined Ariana and Julia for dinner with Paolo and Gianna.

“Look at you,” Gianna said to Julia. “Not a day older than when I saw you last.”

“Surely you don’t mean that. The last time I was here was over two years ago,” Julia said.

“I never lie, it’s not befitting of a lady.”

Julia laughed and was given a small start when something rubbed against her leg. “Bambina,” She said, smiling.

“You have a cat?” Invidia asked, kneeling down to beckon her over.

“You like cats?” Julia asked with a raised eyebrow.

“I have a cat, remember? Her name is Monica,” Invidia explained, smiling as Bambina made her way over, sniffed her hand, and then allowed Invidia to pet her.

“It’s true,” Ariana said. “Remember that cosmetics company? That’s where the cat came from.”

“So, she’s a rescue?”

“If you want to call her that,” Invidia shrugged as Gianna grabbed her hand and pulled her up.

“And look at you,” She said. “You’re a lot more beautiful in person.”

“Thank you,” Invidia said. “It’s nice to meet you.”

Gianna smiled and looked at Arty, “Too bad you’re taken, or I’d try for you,” She teased.

“Nonna!” Ariana laughed. “Not you too!”

“You can try, but he’s mine,” Invidia said as she grabbed his arm.

Gianna laughed. “Very well then. Come, sit, eat,” She said, leading them into the kitchen where a traditional homemade lasagna dinner sat with a salad and breadsticks as compliments.

“You’re going to hate me for this,” Invidia said to Arty awhile later. “But her food kicks yours in the ass.”

Gianna quickly smacked her on the shoulder with the hand towel.

“What was that for?”

“We don’t curse in this house,” Ariana said. “Especially the ladies.”

Gianna smiled at her. “Right.”

Invidia rolled her eyes. ‘What does it matter? It’s not like there’s kids around.’

“Don’t do that, it doesn’t suit you,” Arty whispered.

“You know very well that it does!”

“Well, it’s not cute.”

“I am not trying to be cute,” Invidia snapped before turning back to the table.

Arty shrugged and continued to eat. The rest of the meal and evening was filled with an abundance of conversation and laughter that slowly began to die down after everyone’s departure.

Invidia and Arty returned to their suite around ten o’clock, and as soon as they set foot in the door, Arty grabbed Invidia around the waist. 

“What are you doing?” She laughed.

“I want you,” He whispered, making her blush.

“Not tonight. I’m tired and I have to prepare for work,” Invidia said.

“Your work does not begin until the day after tomorrow,” Arty argued.

“Arty, I am not in the mood to argue, just let me go,” Invidia demanded.

Arty sighed and obeyed. “I thought the point of my coming here was so that we could have a romantic vacation in between your assignments.”

“I know. We’ll do something romantic later, I promise. Just give me some time to plan.”

‘You do not always need a plan for romance!’ Arty thought, a bit aggravated that she thought planning was often needed. 

‘I’m sorry Arty,’ Invidia thought as she ran herself a bath. ‘I know you want me, but I have a plan…I want to make our first night together something special and romantic.’  With that thought in mind, she began to run through a bunch of different ideas in her head as she stripped and slipped into the bath. She knew she had candles buried within her work stuff and a decent collection of perfume on hand. ‘I saw this cute florist in the park…I wonder how much it would cost to get a few roses. I can pluck the petals myself.’  She smiled at the thought and set a temporary date for two days later, hoping to have enough time in her schedule to follow through with her plan.

The following morning, she got up early and carefully slipped out of the room without disturbing Arty, hoping to get some shopping done before meeting him for lunch that afternoon. The moment she closed the door, she leaned against it and sighed with relief.

‘Up and out in twenty minutes and he knows nothing…perfect…’ Invidia thought with a smile.

She then made her way down to the lobby and out the door, deciding not to linger for breakfast. ‘I can get something while I’m out. If Arty finds me, he may rope me into doing something else.’ She thought as she headed down the street, looking through the windows of shops that had just opened and eventually made her way to a small café down the road for breakfast. She had no problem reading and ordering off the menu or conversing with the waiters, secretly pleased that she didn’t have to explain the wordings to anyone. Afterwards, she headed off to do the shopping she had planned, looking through several stores and picking up small, souvenir items for Akira, Ryou, Nova and Shamura.

‘I don’t understand?! Why can’t I find anything I like?’ Invidia thought, going through a rack of garments in one store. Frustrated, she let out a long sigh and headed out, hoping that a walk would help her. As she headed up the street, she glanced at store windows, backing up when one caught her eye.

‘Perfect!’ She thought with a smile as she entered the shop, coming out with the item she had been admiring. The minute she stepped out, she checked her watch and gasped. She had left at seven and it was already eleven. She quickly decided to call Arty.

“Invidia?” He asked when he answered. “Where are you?”

“Shopping,” She replied. “You?”

“I’m at the pool. I can’t go anywhere if I can’t talk to people.”

“I taught you enough to get around!”

“It’s easier if you talk.”

“You’re just lazy!” Invidia snapped. “I’ll meet you soon, so stay.”

“Yes Mom,” Arty teased.

Invidia sighed and hung up, putting her phone back in her purse. “He’s too much…” She muttered, heading down the street. She came back to the hotel within twenty minutes and first headed up to the room to hide the things she bought before exchanging her high-heeled sandals for flat ones and heading down to the pool with a book in hand.

“It’s about time you showed up,” Arty said. He sat on a chair in black swim shorts flipping through a magazine he had picked up, only looking at it for the pictures.

“I had some things to attend to,” Invidia said.

“Where’s your bathing suit? It’s a pool you know.”

Invidia looked down at her strapless, red sundress and shrugged. “I didn’t change because I don’t like to swim in public, you know that,” She replied, sitting in the chair next to his.

“Oh, come on. It covers you well enough and you look cute in it,” Arty said.

“Thank you, but you’re not changing my mind,” Invidia replied, sitting back with her book.

“Whatever…” Arty muttered.

“Don’t be like that,” Invidia said. “I don’t have time to swim anyway, tomorrow we start on the project.”

“I know, I was just hoping to spend some more time with you before we got to work.”

“You will spend time with me, I promise.”

“You better keep that promise,” Arty said as he stood and then leaned down for a kiss.

Invidia pushed him back, “What have I told you about doing that in public?” She asked, holding her hand out.

Arty sighed, took her hand, and kissed it. “You are such a princess,” He teased.

“Blood doesn’t lie,” Invidia teased back.

Arty laughed and stepped back, leaving her alone with her book while he went back for another swim. She watched him for awhile before turning back to her story, ignoring the noise and children around her until something hit her in the head. Invidia looked to her left and stared at the beach ball on the ground, then, she turned to the boy who had come up to her. She then stood, picked up the ball and threw it back to him, looking at him and the other children who had showed up. Finally, she turned and decided to leave.

“And where are you off to, Princess?” Arty asked as he stepped out of the pool.

“Our room, there’s too many kids around for my taste.”

“I’ll meet you in a few minutes. We can go out for lunch.”

“I don’t want to go out.”

“Room service?” Arty suggested.

“I think I’ll check out the spa,” Invidia said.

Arty sighed, “I’ll meet you later then.”

Invidia gave a small nod and headed off. She felt a bit guilty about rejecting him, but, she had plans to attend to. She did as she said and took a short trip to the hotel’s spa to get her nails done, flipping through a phonebook during her pedicure, stopping when she found what she was looking for. She smiled, retrieved her phone from her purse and dialed.

The next morning was the beginning of the real purpose of the trip: covering Venice’s fashion week. Invidia had been given the task of interviewing and profiling several designers and reviewing their fashions. She paced around the room as she prepared that morning, going over her assignments and the items she would need in her head.

“Invidia, if you’re planning to eat this morning, you may want to hurry up,” Arty said, tempted to eat the food she had ordered up.

“Hold on,” Invidia muttered, struggling with a black tie.

Arty sighed, left his spot in the small kitchen area and stopped her. “That’s a lot easier to do if you stop walking. Now, eat.”

Invidia sighed. “Fine…” She muttered as she sat at the table and picked at her food before eating it.

“Don’t pick,” Arty said, double-checking her camera bag for her. Invidia ignored him and sighed.

“And stop that too, this trip is supposed to be fun. Where are we going today?”

“There’s a hotel a little ways up the street where most of the designers are staying and preparing for the shows next week,” Invidia explained, pausing to tie her tie again. “Why isn’t this working?!”

“You’re thinking about it too much and you’re stressed,” Arty said, “Let me try.”

“No! I can fix it!” Invidia snapped.

“Okay, okay,” Arty said, holding his hands up in defeat. He sat back and watched Invidia struggle once more before she finally got it tied. “Finally,” He said.

“Oh shut up,” Invidia said. “Hurry up, we’re going to be late.” She tried to stand, but Arty pushed her back down.

“No, we’re going to be early. Finish eating.”

Invidia sighed and sat back down. She did as she was told and, as soon as she finished, she rechecked her items, grabbed Arty’s hand and dragged him out of the room. “Ariana wants us to meet downstairs at nine.”

“We have twenty minutes,” Arty pointed out, looking at his watch.

“It’ll give me time to look things over then,” Invidia said, pulling on a dark, navy blazer that matched the skirt she wore.

“You know, there’s something sexy about a woman in a business suit,” Arty said, trying to lighten her mood.

“Oh, be quiet!” She snapped.

Arty sighed and followed her downstairs, where she straightened herself up a bit and paced until the remaining members of the crew showed up. Once everyone was accounted for, Ariana briefed them on their assignments and let them get to work. The moment she dismissed them, Invidia dragged Arty through a maze of streets and to the hotel she had spoken of earlier.

“Princess, this place is nuts,” Arty said as he looked around the designer-crowded lobby. He saw not only the designers themselves, but sketches and models and several rolls of fabric.

“Invidia?” He said when he noticed that she wasn’t next to him anymore. He soon caught the sight of her admiring a sheer, violet fabric with silver sparkles.

“This is to be used to adorn the outside of the gown,” A man explained as he showed Invidia some sketches.

“It is very beautiful. Would you be willing to sit for an interview?”

“I have some time.”

Invidia smiled and beckoned Arty over. “Do you mind if we take a few pictures?”

The man shook his head. “Not at all.”

Invidia smiled and sat down with him and three more designers, recording their answers and questions while Arty took pictures and watched her admire some of their work. She even managed to charm them into giving her samples of the fabric to take back with her.

“You are good,” Arty said as she led him back to the hotel awhile later. 

“I’m a reporter, it comes with the territory,” Invidia shrugged.

“Are you planning to eat today?” Arty asked. “It’s already two and we haven’t had lunch.”

“There’s a small café in the hotel, just order something to go. I have to get up to our room and start putting things together,” Invidia said. 

“One problem, I can’t order if I can’t read the menu.”

“Fine! I’ll place the order and you can bring it up to the room,” She said as they walked through

the doors of the hotel.

‘I never realized how into her work she got…she rarely ever treats me coolly anymore…’ Arty thought, knowing that het attitude was to blame on her job. He sighed and let Invidia lead him to the café, where, she quickly read over the menu and placed an order, leaving Arty to get it as she headed back up to the room.

She began to change as soon as she stepped inside and after some quick thinking, she settled on a simple, light-blue sundress and decided against shoes as she set up her laptop on the balcony and got straight to work on beginning her designer profiles. 

“What are you doing?” Arty asked awhile later, setting a plate of food next to her.

“Putting pages together,” Invidia said, absentmindedly picking up her fork.

“I thought you had people for that,” Arty said, sitting in the chair next to hers.

“Usually, but writing articles is different than profiles. I can usually just submit articles and pictures by themselves, but this takes a bit more work,” Invidia explained, moving widgets around the page in her program.

After five minutes Arty set his hand over hers, stopping her work. “Eat before it gets cold.” He said.

“Fine,” Invidia sighed and picked up her plate.

“By the way, how’s that novel of yours going?”

“Alright. I’m at the halfway point now.”

“That’s great…I think.”

“It is. I’m hoping to have it done by the middle of next year and ready for publishing.”

“You have to find a publisher first,” Arty pointed out. 

“Don’t remind me,” Invidia groaned.

“You could always ask Nova to put in a word with her publisher.”

“No. That’s cheating. I want to be published because of my own merits, not because I have a famous friend.”

“Alright,” Arty shrugged and watched as she alternated between eating and working and soon got up to join her on her chair.

“What?” Invidia asked as he draped an arm around her waist.

“Take a break for awhile,” Arty said, pulling her against him.

Invidia sighed, knowing that fighting him was useless. Instead, she leaned against him and let him hug her until she dozed off.

Arty smiled and watched her sleep until he became uncomfortable and decided to shake her a half hour later. “Princess, get up.” He said.

“Why?”

“You have to finish your drafts and you agreed to meet that one woman for dinner, remember?”

“We’re not eating until six, what time is it?”

“Only four.”

“What are you worrying for then?” Invidia asked.

“You’re crushing my stomach.”

“You’re the one who moved me,” Invidia shrugged and stood to stretch, placing her hands on the rail of the balcony. “You can see everything from here…” She breathed.

“It is a beautiful city,” Arty said as he stood and soon joined her. “You know what would be nice?”

“No, tell me,” Invidia said.

“To see you against the starlight,” Arty whispered as he gently pushed her hair out of the way and kissed her neck.

“Not now, not tonight,” Invidia said.

“But Princess, I…”

“Not tonight,” Invidia snapped, then she quickly gathered her laptop and stepped back into the room. “I’m going to get ready for dinner.”

‘What is her problem? I thought she wanted me here so we could get romantic,’ Arty thought as he watched her pace around the room that evening and the next morning. He woke to the sound of hard footsteps and followed Invidia’s body as she walked around gathering supplies and trying to tie her tie with only one shoe on.

“Princess? Where’s your other shoe?” Arty asked as he got up.

“It fell off,” Invidia explained.

“Why are you in such a rush? It’s only six AM.”

“Ariana wants us to meet downstairs at seven and I had to get some extra work done first.”

“Breakfast?”

“That’s why we’re meeting her, so hurry up and get dressed.”

Arty sighed, got up and headed into the bathroom, watching as Invidia picked up her other shoe and slipped it on. “You look nice,” He complimented when she came out.

“Thank you. You’re not so bad yourself, though your outfit is a bit casual,” Invidia said, eyeing his simple jeans and black, polo shirt ensemble, a huge downgrade from her black skirt, white, silk blouse and burgundy blazer. With the ensemble, she wore a simple, black tie and matching black pumps along with a gold chain with a heart around her neck.

“What’s that?” Arty asked.

“A locket,” Invidia replied. “I picked it up while shopping the other day.”

“Let me see.” Arty stepped in front of her and opened it, laughing when he saw the picture inside. “Monica?” He asked.

“Monica,” Invidia replied. “I already have a locket with your picture in it, and my mother’s holds my parents’, so I figured, why not?”

“You could have not bought it,” Arty pointed out. 

“It’s was beautiful to leave. Get the camera,” Invidia said as she grabbed his hand and led him from their suite to a conference room downstairs, where breakfast and half the crew waited.

“It was nice of her to set this up,” Arty said, looking at the food on the table.

“I guess,” Invidia shrugged as she grabbed a plate and looked over her choices, carefully portioning them out on her plate. ‘It’s a good thing we got here early-there’s actually food left!’

She thought as the remaining members of the crew filed in.

As soon as everyone was settled, Ariana called them to attention and went over their assignments for the day and looked over the work they had completed the previous day before dismissing them.

“Where to today?” Arty asked.

“The same hotel, it’s where the shows are going to be held next week and I still need to fill in six designer spaces. The fashion shows begin on Friday, and we’ll have to start attending them in the evening so I can get more pictures.”

Arty simply nodded and followed her up the street and through her daily tasks, helping when he could with pictures and set up of the pages back at their hotel.

“What do you want to do for dinner?” He asked around four.

“We’re going out,” Invidia said. “We have a reservation for six at a fancy little café downtown and you are to wear a suit,” She demanded.

“Um…okay,” Arty said, curious as to what she was planning.

“Start getting ready, I’ll take a bath after you’re done.”

“Yes ma’am” Arty teased.

Invidia rolled her eyes and continued working and watching as Arty made his way to the bathroom. As soon as he was out of sight, she moved to the small, living room area and began rifling through her suitcase, eventually coming across the outfit she had been looking for. She then sat and worked until Arty finished and sneakily slipped into the bathroom and set her bath.

After a half hour, she got out, blow-dried and combed out her hair, curling just the ends of it before applying just a bit of makeup and slipping into her dress for the evening.

“Invidia, if the reservation is for six, you better hurry up!” Arty said. “It’s five-thirty now!”

“Relax, we’re only going around the block,” Invidia said back as she applied a bit of rose petal-scented perfume, then, she took in a breath and stepped out.

“It’s about…” Arty began to speak but lost all of his thoughts as he watched Invidia step out in a dark, black dress with a sheer layer of silver sparkles that hung from only one shoulder. “Where did you get that?” He asked.

“I made it. It’s my first serious attempt at making an evening gown for myself. Shamura helped a bit with the measurements.”

“You made that?”

“Didn’t I just say that?”

“Princess…It looks great. I’ve seen you make outfits before but never like this.”

Invidia blushed. “Thank you,” She said as she slipped into a pair of matching black sandals. “You’re not so bad yourself,” she said, eyeing his black suit with matching navy-blue tie.

“I’ll take that as a compliment,” Arty said as he helped her up. “Now, where are we going?”

Invidia smiled, grabbed her purse and said, “Follow me.” With that, she led him out of the hotel, and down the street to an elegant-looking restaurant.

“Princess, this looks expensive,” He said.

“It may be, but we can take care of it,” Invidia replied, waiting as he led her inside, where, she gave the hostess her name. They were led to a table in the middle of the floor that was lit by only a bit of dim light and some candles. Invidia made a quick request for wine as soon as they were seated and then turned to Arty.

“What did you just ask her?” He asked.

“You’ll see.”

“Invidia, can you do me a favor?” Arty asked after a brief silence.

“Hm?” Invidia looked up from the menu she was reading.

“Translate,” He said.

“Alright,” Invidia nodded and began to look over the menu again, pointing out choices she thought he’d enjoy until the wine she had ordered was presented. She gave the bottle a nod and the woman holding it walked off and was replaced by a waiter a few minutes later. Invidia smiled and gave their order as Arty poured the wine and gave her a glass.

“I now find myself thanking God that you speak fluent Italian.”

Invidia laughed and reached over table to grab his hand. “I can teach you if you want.”

“No, I’m good,” Arty said as he picked up his wine glass. “And so is this place, how’d you find it?”

“Phonebook.”

“They still have those?”

“Okay, it was more like a tourist directory, and, yes,” Invidia rolled her eyes as she picked up her own glass.

Arty gave a small laugh and broke a breadstick in half, offering her the other end. “What did I order anyway?”

“It’s a pasta dish with a garlic and herb sauce. You’ll like it, trust me,” Invidia said.

“How do you know?”

“Ariana made it the last time I went over.”

“Must be nice to be friends with your boss.”

“It is.” Invidia smiled and the conversation soon turned to back home, the state of the kids and Invidia’s work for ten minutes before their order arrived, creating a silence as they ate.

Arty quietly watched her and smiled, there was elegance in the way she handled herself and an indescribable beauty given by the elegant glow of the candles on her face.

“Is something wrong, Darling?” Invidia asked.

“Just admiring your beauty.”

Invidia blushed and said, “You’ll have plenty of time to do that later.”

Arty sat back a moment, thinking about her words. “What?” He asked.

Under the table, Invidia slipped off one of her sandals and gently ran her foot up his leg. “Now, I know you’re not that stupid,” She teased as she motioned the waiter over to take their plates and gave him another order. He soon came back with a small slice of double-chocolate cake and two forks.

“And what is this?” Arty asked.

“Part one of your desert, now, open,” Invidia ordered.

Arty did as he was told and allowed her to feed him a small bit of the cake from her fork.

“My turn,” He said, holding up a fork of his own. Invidia blushed and allowed him to do the same to her before they spilt the cake and began eating it separately. As they were finishing Arty signaled for the check and quickly tucked his card within the leather holder, suddenly eager to return to the hotel.

Invidia watched his eyes and smiled. ‘I know what you’re thinking…but I think I’ll make you wait awhile…’ She thought with a smirk.

“You ready?” Arty asked a minute later.

Invidia nodded and took the hand he offered, allowing him to lead her back to the hotel. The minute they set foot in the room, Arty grabbed her, backed her up against the wall and gave her a deep, passionate kiss. She eagerly returned it, and received another in response, and then another before she pulled back and put her finger to his lips.

“Wait,” She said. “I have something for you. Stay until I call.”

Arty sighed. “Princess….”

“No protesting. It’ll be worth it, trust me,” Invidia replied as she headed into the adjoining bedroom. She quickly locked the door and went for one of her luggage cases, pulling out the box that she had bought a few days earlier. She then threw off her clothing and changed, before digging deeper, bringing out several small candles and fake, scented rose petals. And, after a few minutes of setup, she called Arty into the room and smiled as she watched his eyes widen.

“I told you it would be worth it,” Invidia purred, kicking her blanket to the ground as she spoke. She lay on the bed on her stomach in a lingerie set that consisted of a dark-red bra, etched in black lace with silk, sheer, black hang-offs and a matching pair of panties. It was the sole reason she had gone out shopping days earlier. Around her lay a variety of candles that gave the room a soft, romantic glow.

“Princess…you look…wow…”

“That is exactly what I wanted to hear,” Invidia said, beckoning him over with her finger.

With his mind in a sudden haze, Arty made his way to the bed, only to be dragged down by Invidia. She wasted no time in pulling him in for a deep, passionate kiss before she rolled him over and began tearing at his clothing. She was quick to rip off his shirt and throw it to the ground, surprised when, afterwards, her flipped her over.

“No,” He said. “You’ve tortured me by making me wait, now it’s my turn.”

“What are you…” Invidia began to speak and was cut off by a soft, light kiss before Arty moved down to her neck, placing feather-light kisses on the skin as he made his way down her body.

“Please…don’t do this,” Invidia groaned

“Why not?” Arty asked, gently caressing her breasts as he spoke, teasing her nipples through the silken fabric.  “You brought this on yourself.”

Invidia moaned in both pleasure and annoyance as he continued to tease her unnecessarily with both his hands and his mouth, slowly pulling off her garments as he did so. She wasn’t sure whether to feel pleasured or tortured, though she enjoyed his touch, things were far too slow for her liking. “Arty…please…” She begged.

“Such a patient little kitten,” He teased, leaning down to give her another kiss.

Invidia took the opportunity to pull him closer and force him into a passionate kiss as she wrapped her arms around his neck, soon taking her nails to his back.

Arty got the hint and finally dropped the act, taking her before she could protest, and, much to her delight, quickly picked up his pace.

She continued to rake his back with her nails as she fell into an ocean of pure pleasure, moaning and gasping at every small touch, every little kiss…Their lovemaking was slow and sweet, but full of passion and leaving them wanting more.

“Why must you tease me like that?” Invidia whined as Arty collapsed next to her. 

“You have been teasing me for days, revenge was imminent,” Arty said.

“I still love you though.”

“Trust me, I know,” Arty whispered, pulling her in for another kiss before he rolled her onto her back.

“No!” Invidia said as she moved so that she was on top. “I’m in charge now.”

“Then I am yours, my princess.”

“Good,” Invidia smiled before dragging him into a wave of pleasure two more times that night.

She blew out the candles around three, and they slept for only three hours before Invidia had to get up and resume  her work. Their early rises occurred throughout the rest of the week before the crew turned their attention to the night events beginning that Friday.

“Arty! Hurry up! It’s our first fashion show!” Invidia said, tapping her foot against the carpet in the living room area as she waited for him to emerge.

“Invidia, the show doesn’t start until eight! It’s only six,” Arty said as he walked out adjusting his tie.

“We have some backstage stuff to do, remember?” Invidia said, fiddling with the badge she wore, feeling that it clashed with her elegant, black, strapless, evening gown.

“Alright, just let me get my shoes on.”

Invidia sighed and grabbed his hand once he was finished. She dragged him into the lobby, where the remaining members of the crew waited.

“You’re late,” Julia said.

“Not my fault he’s slow!” Invidia snapped, pointing to Arty.

“I don’t care who’s fault it is, the limo is outside,” Ariana snapped.

“Limo?” Daniel asked.

“Yes, I managed to get a hold of one for the night,” Mrs. Ikumi said. “March!” She ordered.

Everyone snapped to attention and headed outside and into the white, stretch limo on order.

“What kind of limo doesn’t give you free champagne?” Blaine asked.

“I told them not to,” Ariana said. “This is an assignment, not a party.”

“I thought you got the limo,” Invidia said, looking at Mrs. Ikumi.

“I had Ariana make the call. Her Italian is a lot better than mine.”

Invidia nodded and turned toward the window, watching as the sights flew by in an array of beautiful, almost romantic lights that turned brighter and brighter as they approached the luxury hotel where the show would be held. They stepped out into an array of people and were quickly sent in their separate directions, Invidia going backstage to profile the finished designs and models. She easily caught the attention of one and Arty became lost in their fast, Italian conversation as he took the pictures Invidia asked. 

“Over here!” Invidia grabbed his wrist and dragged him across the room.

“Food?” He asked, looking over the snack table.

“I’m starving!” Invidia protested. “I haven’t eaten!” She reached forward to grab something but was distracted by a voice. She turned in the direction and saw one of the designers conversing with another woman. Invidia took another look, remembering him from days before when she was doing her interviews. 

“What do you mean she can’t go on?” The designer asked.

“Just what I said! She’s sick!”

“So suddenly?”

“She had an allergic reaction to something she had for lunch, I’m sorry,” The woman said, then, she turned away.

“Is something wrong?” Invidia asked, thinking it would make a good story.

“One of my models just…wait a minute, I know you! You’re the reporter for that Japanese magazine.”

“Yes,” Invidia said, feeling increasingly nervous as he looked her over.

“Turn,” He ordered.

Invidia nodded and did as she was told.

“You appear to be about the same size…How would you like to model for me?”

“What?!”

“Please, I need one in the next twenty minutes.”

“I appreciate it, but I have a job and…”

“And what better way to help your work by engaging in it,” Mrs. Ikumi said as she stepped up and set her hand on Invidia’s shoulder.

“Are you sure?” Invidia asked.

“Why not, we have more than enough people to cover for you.”

Invidia sighed and turned to the designer. “I guess you got yourself a model,” She said.

“Perfect! Alyssa! Take her to hair and makeup! We go on in twenty!”

“Yes sir,” A short, blonde woman said, pulling Invidia aside.

“And who are you?” Invidia asked.

“His assistant,” Alyssa replied shortly, pulling her into a room and handing her over to a man.

“If you turn me into a Barbie doll, I will kill you,” Invidia threatened.

“Don’t worry darling. This outfit requires light makeup, now close your eyes.”

Invidia did as she was told, and heard as people bustled around her, applying makeup, talking to models and discussing outfits. It reminded her of the beauty pageant she had entered a few months before, and was calming.

“Okay sweetheart, open your eyes.”

Invidia did and glared at her reflection. It was not the makeup, which was light and consisted of a light-pink lip gloss, sparkling, violet eye shadow and some mascara, but her hair. “Where’s my pin?” She demanded.

“That red thing? I took it off. It clashes with the outfit.”

“Where is it?”

“Here,” He handed it over and Invidia stood and left, soon finding Arty in the crowd.

“Who are you and what have you done with my wife?” He asked, looking her over.

“Not funny! Take this! They won’t let me wear it.”

“You don’t need it, you look pretty,” Arty complimented. “Turn so I can see the back.”

Invidia did so and he looked over her hair, which was curled at the bottom and partially pulled back with a large, silver barrette, with a large, violet gem surrounded by diamonds.

“Are those real?” He asked, staring at the jewels.

“Probably. Now hurry and find your seat! I have to go to wardrobe!” Invidia said, quickly running the other way to meet Alyssa again.

“Here’s your dress, now hurry!” She ordered, handing Invidia a garment bag and ushering her into a dressing room.

Invidia quickly changed, recognizing the fabric from her earlier interview. It was a dark-violet, spaghetti-strap, evening gown with a shining, silver brooch on one of the straps and a layer of sheer fabric with silver sparkles. ‘It’s stunning…’ She thought. ‘And a perfect fit!’  She then glanced at her sandals and cringed, knowing that black was probably not the best choice.

“Do you have anything in silver?” Invidia asked Alyssa.

“Plenty, come with me.” Alyssa grabbed Invidia’s wrist and led her into a room full of shoes.

“I think I’m in heaven…” Invidia said as she looked at a row in her size and picked out a pair of sandals that she felt looked better. “Where do I put my clothes?”

“In the dressing room there are small baskets for each girl. Use the one that says Lila, she’s who you’ve replaced tonight.”

Invidia nodded, did so and soon joined the other models in line, waiting for her chance to go on as the designer looked them all over.

“I knew I made a good choice when I picked you,” He said to Invidia. “You wear that well.”

“Thank you,” Invidia nodded.

“You know how to model, right?” The girl next to her asked as he moved on.

“Of course,” Invidia said. She had often been told she was a natural model and had been in enough charity fashion shows and photo shoots to know her steps. She was nervous, but did not show it as they announced the line and the models were given their cues. She took in a quick breath and stepped into the light, all of her nerves washed away as she glanced at the people around her and concentrated on making herself and the designer look good. Invidia couldn’t see Arty, but knew he was watching as she made her way to the end of the runway and turned around, catching the eye of Ariana, who gave her a smile, being told of the situation earlier by Mrs. Ikumi. Behind her, Arty took pictures, thinking her to be the most beautiful woman in the world at that moment.

Afterwards, she was told that she wouldn’t be needed for anything more, changed, and quickly joined her crew to finish her observations for the night before they all headed back to the hotel.

“You looked great on that stage,” Arty complimented as he joined her on the balcony later, wrapping an arm around her waist.

“Grazie,” Invidia replied, gently lying her head on his shoulder.

“At first I doubted you, but now I’m glad I came on this trip because I get to have a romantic adventure with the most beautiful woman in the world.” He then leaned down and kissed her against the stars.