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Anastasia gazed into the mirror, a small smile playing on her lips.
The green cocktail dress clung to her body like it had been made just for her. The sweetheart neckline, cinched with a delicate clasp, and the ruched bodice created a silhouette that whispered sophistication. Her hair was pulled into a sleek updo, revealing the curve of her neck and the simple pearl earrings that shimmered against her skin. Her red nails gleamed like lacquered glass.
A knock came at the door, and before she could answer, Graziella burst in, throwing her arms around Anastasia in a back-hug.
“We’re going to be the hottest girls there!” she squealed. “Let me do your makeup. I’m thinking a smoky green eye. Ooh—hold still.”
Graziella plucked a blue flower from the vanity and tucked it carefully into Anastasia’s hair, her expression softening as she admired her handiwork. “Perfect.”
A low chuckle echoed from the hallway.
Riff leaned against the doorframe, his leather jacket catching the light, hair slicked back in his signature swagger. “I’ll let you girlies work your magic,” he said with a grin. “Don’t want to mess with Graziella’s masterpiece.” He winked and vanished down the hall.
As the door clicked shut, Graziella’s smile faded slightly. “Hey… can I ask you something?” Her tone was more hesitant now. “It’s about Tony. Has he asked about me?”
Anastasia hesitated. “Tony and I don’t really talk about that kind of stuff,” she replied softly. “It’s more… unspoken.”
“I get it,” Graziella said quickly, forcing a smile. “It’s okay.” She motioned to Anastasia’s heels. “Can I borrow these?”
“You’re with Riff now,” Anastasia said, her brow lifted. “Shouldn’t be thinking about anyone else.”
Graziella didn’t answer right away.
“You still love him, don’t you?” Anastasia asked, quieter this time.
A hesitant nod. “Would it be wrong to say I did?”
“No,” Anastasia replied dryly. “I don’t get your love for my twin brother, though. It’s kinda gross.”
Graziella chuckled. “It is pretty gross, huh?”
Anastasia grinned, swiping red lipstick across her lips and handing it over. Graziella took it and applied it gracefully.
