D.E.B.S - tamber

four, the mission/date

At Les Deux Amours, the somewhat popular restaurant known for its trendy vibe and intimate atmosphere, the air buzzed with anticipation. Patrons chatted softly over the sound of clinking glasses and sizzling dishes, creating an ambiance perfect for a romantic evening. Above the main dining area, a unique feature hung suspended: swings outfitted with little chairs where girls lounged, their feet dangling playfully as they waited for Amber's arrival. The sight added a whimsical charm to the upscale eatery, making it a favored spot for dates.

"Hey, look! Look! Check this out!" Anika exclaimed, her voice bubbling with excitement as she flipped through a magazine featuring school news. She leaned closer to Tara, who was seated beside her, barely contained enthusiasm sparkling in her eyes. "Ms. Weathers is handpicking girls for the International Bureau," she explained, practically bouncing in her seat. "I'm gonna see if I can get an interview."

Tara, glancing up from the swinging seat, raised an eyebrow, intrigued yet contemplative. "Think Mr. Riley would let me take time off after Endgame?" she asked, her mind wandering to possibilities beyond the academy.

"What are you talking about?" Anika replied, her confusion evident as she tilted her head, trying to gauge Tara's sudden shift in focus.

"I don't know. There's this art school in Paris," Tara shrugged, a hint of longing creeping into her voice as she imagined the vibrant streets of the French capital filled with inspiration and creativity.

Anika bit the corner of her cheek, a mixture of annoyance and concern crossing her features. "Art school? T, you're the perfect score! You could have your choice of any assignment you want after Endgame," she reminded her friend, exhaling a frustrated sigh. The thought of Tara potentially abandoning their squad for art school weighed heavily on her.

Tara looked down, her excitement dimming as regret washed over her for even mentioning it. Seeing her friend's disappointment, Anika pressed on, trying to lift the mood. "Who's your best friend?"

"You are my best friend," Tara answered immediately, a soft smile breaking through her previous melancholy. It was true; Anika had always been there for her, unwavering and loyal, and she cherished their bond deeply.

"And what did I say to you on the very first day of the academy?" Anika prompted, her eyes narrowing playfully.

"Who moved it, shortie," Tara recited, remembering the moment fondly, her smile widening.

"After that," Anika insisted, a teasing grin spreading across her face.

"D.E.B.S. stick together," Tara quoted again, the familiar motto bringing a sense of camaraderie flooding back.

"Exactly!" Anika nodded, her enthusiasm reigniting. "We've been through four years of hell, and now we're top squad, right? We're just getting to the good stuff! So you're not gonna ruin it all by going to art school. Am I right?"

Tara let out a frustrated sigh through her nose, a mixture of guilt and realization settling in. She turned to Anika, her resolve softening as she gulped, nodding her head. "Yes. You are always right," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper, but the sincerity rang clear.

Just as the conversation between Tara and Anika simmered, Liv's walkie-talkie crackled to life, jolting her from the moment. She let out an exasperated sigh, rolling her eyes as she answered. "D.E.B.S. Olivia speaking. Over."

"Liv, put her on," came Wes's voice, his tone urgent.

Liv glanced over at Tara, her expression one of reluctance. "It's Wes," she said, a hint of annoyance creeping into her voice.