Lost and Found • mikhaiah au

09.1. Redefined Rivalries

After a short drive filled with playful banter and a few comfortable silences, they finally arrived at Agnes' condo.

The tension from the pool had mostly dissipated, replaced by a curious mix of excitement and uncertainty.

As they exited the car and walked toward the building, Agnes felt a knot of nerves tighten in her stomach.

Reaching the door to her unit, Agnes fumbled slightly with her keys before unlocking the door. She pushed it open, stepping inside and motioning for Maiko to follow. "Tara?" she said, trying to sound casual but feeling a bit self-conscious.

Maiko stepped in behind her, immediately taking in the surroundings. Agnes' condo was cozy and inviting, with warm lighting and tasteful decor. There were a few framed photos on the walls, mostly of family and friends, and a soft, inviting couch in the living room. The air was filled with a subtle, pleasant scent, like fresh linen mixed with something uniquely Agnes.

"Nice place," Maiko remarked, genuinely impressed. "I didn't expect you to have such good taste." She grinned, teasing but also sincere in her compliment. "Feels like home."

Agnes felt a small swell of pride at Maiko's words, despite the teasing tone. "Thanks," she replied, trying to keep her voice steady. She led Maiko further into the living room, gesturing toward the couch. "Make yourself comfortable. I'll start on dinner."

Maiko wandered over to the couch, glancing around with an appraising eye. She noticed a bookshelf filled with novels, a few trophies from swimming competitions, and a small stack of magazines on a coffee table. There was even a corner dedicated to a collection of indoor plants, which added a fresh, vibrant touch to the space.

As Agnes moved to the kitchen area, Maiko settled onto the couch, relaxing into the soft cushions. "You've really got it all together here," she said, her voice carrying a note of genuine admiration. "It's different from what I imagined."

Agnes paused, looking back at Maiko with a curious expression. "Different how?" she asked, half-expecting another tease.

Maiko shrugged, leaning back and folding her arms behind her head. "I don't know. I guess I thought you'd be more practical. Just the essentials, you know? But this place, it's like you've put a lot of yourself into it. It's nice."

Agnes blushed slightly, caught off guard by the unexpected compliment. She turned back to the kitchen, trying to hide her smile. "Well, I do live here," she said, keeping her tone light. "I figured it should feel like me."

Maiko's gaze lingered on Agnes for a moment, a thoughtful expression crossing her face. She murmured softly, almost to herself. "It definitely does."

As Agnes busied herself in the kitchen, preparing ingredients for the meal, Maiko continued to explore the space with her eyes, feeling a strange mix of curiosity and familiarity. It was like stepping into a new side of her rival, one she hadn't seen before. There was something oddly intimate about being here, in this space that so clearly reflected Agnes' personality.

"Need any help?" Maiko called out, breaking the silence.

Agnes glanced over her shoulder, shaking her head with a small smile. "Nah, I've got it. Just sit back, you're the guest, after all."

Maiko leaned forward on the couch, trying to get a better view of what Agnes was doing in the kitchen. "Can you at least tell me what's on the menu tonight?" she asked.

Agnes, busy chopping vegetables, glanced over her shoulder with an amused smile. "Relax, Herrera. You'll find out soon enough," she replied, attempting to sound nonchalant.