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Rio Vidal was a beloved citizen of Westview. She had always been a sweetheart, doing yard work for the local elders, tutoring elementary schoolers in Spanish, and flashing an easy smile to anyone who needed one. Their small town had a bit of a stick up its ass, side eyeing anyone who didn’t fit into its suburban, white-picket-fence image. But somehow, no one batted an eye when Rio leaned into goth fashion and music. Their only real concern was whether she’d overheat wearing all black in the dead of summer.
Of course, she had her wild side. Whenever she wasn’t busy being an angel, Rio and her group of alt lesbians could be found smoking weed in Alice’s garage, exploring abandoned buildings, or loitering by the train tracks. She adored her friends, each of them as unique in style and personality.
There was Alice Wu-Gulliver, her closest friend, a punk girl with bright red streaks in her hair. They’d been friends their whole lives, their first time smoking weed was together. Alice’s mom, Lorna Wu, used to be in a band, and Rio had quickly charmed the retired rockstar by helping her start a home garden, giving her tips and teaching her about plants. Lorna had been bored to death after quitting touring, but Rio gave her something to do. She was amazed as to how Rio could be so smart and helpful as a third grader, and in return, she repaid her with guitar lessons.
Then there was Jennifer Kale, the pastel whimsigoth of the group, floating around in flowy pink dresses and oversized sun hats. For the longest time, Rio couldn’t tell if Jen hated her or wanted her phone number. They’d technically known each other forever, growing up in the same town, but never really got close, until Jen started dating Alice. The two complemented each other well, both in looks and personality.
And finally… there was Agatha Harkness. The mean goth girl stereotype that dudebros online would foam at the mouth over. For awhile, Rio thought she was in love with her. But she quickly realized that the “mean goth girl” was way more fun in theory than in practice. That didn’t stop them from being friends with benefits, though. Rio knew this girl would genuinely ruin her life if they actually dated, and Agatha was far too emotionally unavailable to consider dating anyone. She was kind of a bitch and everyone knew it, but that girl has too many issues and Rio was too sweet to try and put an end to it.
Summer had come and gone in a blur of lazy afternoons, late-night adventures, and just enough chaos to keep things interesting. Now, senior year was here, whether Rio was ready for it or not.
She stood outside Westview High, the same brick building she’d spent way too many years in, watching as students trickled in. Some looked excited, others half-asleep, and a few, like her, just wanted to get this over with.
School itself was whatever, same routine, same teachers who either adored her, same notes passed in class. But the real fun would start after the bell rang.
And sure enough, after school let out, Rio and her friends found themselves lingering outside, the sun still hanging high in the sky when a new face approached them. A tall, pale guy with messy silver hair and expertly smudged guyliner.
“You guys look like you know where the good weed is,” he said with a cocky smirk.
Alice grinned, crossing her arms. “Of course we do. It’s with us.”
Rio tilted her head, studying him. “You’re new.” She flashed her usual charming smile. “I know everyone in Westview, and I’ve never seen you around.”
“Yes, I’m new, and you’re beautiful,” he replied smoothly, holding out a hand. “Name’s Pietro.”
Rio snorted but shook his hand anyway. “I’m Rio. And you don’t look bad,” she said, rolling her eyes playfully, “but unfortunately for you, I’m very gay.”
“Oh- no problem! I’m an ally, I swear!” Pietro’s eyes widened for a moment before he quickly recovered. “But hey, on the bright side, I do have a gay twin sister. You know, since I don’t look bad.”
Before Rio could respond, Agatha suddenly appeared behind her, slinging an arm around her shoulders like she owned her. “Mhm, sorry, silver. Your sis might have to fly solo.”
Rio resisted the urge to sigh. It wasn’t like she and Agatha were together, Agatha had made that plenty clear, but she still acted like she had some weird claim on her. Not annoying enough to start a fight over, but enough to get on her nerves.
“Agatha, be nice. He’s new in town,” Jen chimed in, always the mediator.
Alice, however, was already plotting. “Hey, Pietro,” she said, pulling out her phone, “if your sister’s cool, you should both come to my place later! We’ll smoke, hang out, see if you two are actually fun.”
Pietro grinned. “Oh, she’s cool. A little shy and moody, but cool.”
Alice smirked, handing him her phone. “Here, put in your number. I’ll text you the address.”
Pietro did, then shot them all a lazy salute. “Sounds like a plan. See you girls later.”
Later at Alice’s, Rio and Alice were playing ping pong, while Jen and Agatha engaged in whatever meaningless gossip they could scrape together in this small town.
The garage was half open, enough to air out the smoke from their first blunt, simultaneously hiding just enough so that neighbors couldn’t see their devious activities.
A familiar male voice called out, “Yo! We at the right place?”
Alice grinned. “Hell yeah! Just duck under the garage door!”
The twins slipped inside, and Rio’s attention was immediately stolen. She was barely registered Alice’s voice calling her name before a ping pong ball smacked her right in the forehead. She felt like Bruce Wayne in that one Lego Batman Movie meme, where he sees Barbara Gordon for the first time.
“Dude,” Alice snorted. “Are you gonna serve it back, or just stand there looking lovestruck?”
Rio didn’t even acknowledge her, too lost in a trance. She didn’t know if it was just because she was gay, but she had definitely not been expecting Pietro’s sister to be this gorgeous. When he said he had a twin, she’d imagined a female version of him in a wig, not... this.
Instead, Wanda had long darkbrown hair, smudged eyeshadow, and a cascade of piercings dangling from her ears. A thin black dress hugged her frame, paired with high boots and a cropped red leather jacket. She wasn’t smiling, she almost looked nervous, but there was something soft in her green eyes, something warm beneath the hesitation.
Rio didn’t even know her name yet, but she knew one thing… she wanted to.
Pietro beamed. “Hey guys! This is my little sis, Wanda!”
Wanda rolled her eyes. “You’re only twelve minutes older than me.”
Rio wasted no time. She hopped away from the table, turning on the charm that worked on everyone as she held out her hand. “It’s great to meet you, Wanda! I’m Rio Vidal.” Her smile turned playful. “I love your piercings.”
Wanda hesitated, eyes flicking between Rio’s face and her outstretched hand like she wasn’t sure if it was safe. She reminded Rio of a skittish kitten at a shelter, unsure if it could trust the hand reaching for it. But after a beat, Wanda nervously returned the smile and shook her hand.
“I like your face,” Wanda said, then immediately blanched. “I mean- your makeup. I like your makeup.”
Rio simply smiled, gripping Wanda’s hand just a little longer than necessary.
The moment shattered when Agatha’s voice cut through the air, smooth and cold. “I’m Agatha. Tonight, we determine whether you’re worthy of breathing our air or not.”
Jen groaned, already exasperated. “Agatha! What did I say about playing nice?”
Agatha rolled her eyes and leaned back lazily, while Jen turned back to Wanda with a warm smile. “I’m Jen, by the way. Alice’s girlfriend.”
“And I’m Alice,” Alice added from the ping-pong table. “Daughter of the owner of this fine establishment.” She gave Wanda a lazy salute.
Wanda glanced around the room, her grip tightening slightly around the strap of her bag. She looked like she wasn’t sure what she had just walked into.
Rio smiled at her again, this time softer. “You’re gonna have fun, I promise.”
Twenty minutes later, they had chairs set up in a loose smoke circle. Alice proudly brought out her comically large Rick and Morty bong for the occasion, declaring it a celebration for surviving the first day of senior year.
Alice and Jen sat beside each other, Pietro took a seat next to Alice, and Agatha claimed the spot beside Jen… leaving Rio wedged between Agatha and Wanda.
Alice sparked up and passed it to Pietro, who took two effortless puffs before handing it over. When it reached Wanda, she barely got through one hit before dissolving into a fit of coughs, face burning as she quickly passed the bong to Rio.
Agatha smirked. “Wow, new girl, looks like you can’t handle the smoke.”
Still recovering, Wanda sheepishly shrugged. “Yeah, I’m more of a cig smoker… This is usually Pietro’s field of expertise.”
Rio perked up, interest piqued as she passed the bong to Agatha. “You like cigs? Me and Alice are the only ones who do, Agatha and Jen make us smoke outside since they hate the smell.” She hesitated for a beat before adding, “We could do that instead if you want? I already had a blunt earlier anyway.”
Alice barely suppressed a laugh, but her knowing grin gave her away. “Wow, Rio. Already begging for some alone time with her?”
“What, no! No, that’s not what I-” Rio’s face went red. “I meant the three of us could go!”
Alice narrowed her eyes playfully. “Uh huh… Well, I’ll probably stay back and entertain the other twin. You two kids go have fun.”
Rio huffed, pulling out a pack of Marlboro Red 100s and tilting her head toward Wanda in silent offer.
Wanda’s lips twitched into a small smile, nodding in quiet acceptance.
“Come on, there’s an ashtray in the backyard,” Rio said, standing.
She ignored the cheeky stares from the group (and Agatha’s glare) as she led Wanda outside.
Rio brought her to the swinging bench under a large tree, grabbing Lorna’s ashtray on the way. Thank god Alice had a chill mom.
"As long as you’re safe at home and not doing any of the hard stuff, you’re free to do whatever!" Lorna’s words echoed in her mind. It was something she’d said years ago when she first caught Rio and Alice smoking. They’d been scared to death, ready to cry, until Lorna simply joined them and laughed at how shitty their weed was, saying they’d probably been overcharged. Perks of having a rockstar mom.
As they sat down, Rio pulled out two cigarettes, placing both between her lips to light them at the same time before handing one to Wanda.
“...So,” Rio started, exhaling smoke. “How’d you end up in Westview? I couldn’t imagine having to start fresh senior year.”
“It’s, um… not the worst,” Wanda said, twirling the cigarette between her fingers. “We move around a lot. Our parents have remote jobs and insist it’ll broaden our worldviews or something like that…” She took a drag and sighed. “Except it doesn’t help me . I usually keep to myself, so… it’s not like I’m seeing much of the world anyway. I’m used to it.”
Rio nodded. “Does it help your brother?”
Wanda hesitated, looking down. “I think so… He’s the social one. He gets out, makes friends with all sorts of people so easily, and I just… tag along. He’s definitely the cool twin.”
Rio tilted her head. “Well… I think you’re pretty cool.”
Wanda shook her head, a small, disbelieving smile playing at her lips. “You don’t know anything about me.”
“Well, I’d like to.” The words left Rio’s mouth too fast, surprising even herself. She cleared her throat, trying to recover. “So… tell me more about yourself? You said you keep to yourself, what do you usually do in your free time?”
Wanda hesitated, caught off guard. Not many people took interest in her long enough to hold a conversation this long. “…Oh. Well, it’s nothing special. I, um… I like to draw. Nothing good, really, just random scribbles. And I spend a lot of time watching sitcoms or reading.”
Rio’s face lit up. “I’d love to see your random scribbles. And I love sitcoms too! What are your favorites? I’ll tell you mine if you tell me yours.”
Wanda exhaled a soft cloud of smoke. “Um… I think my favorites are The Dick Van Dyke Show or I Love Lucy. But I also really like The Brady Bunch and the Mary Tyler Moore Show ”
Rio tilted her head. “Interesting… I’ve heard of the first one but not the others. Haven’t watched any, though. Maybe you’ll have to show me?”
Wanda’s eyes widened. “You’ve really never seen them? They’re classics! What do you watch?”
Rio grinned at the way Wanda was suddenly animated, her walls lowering. “I love Community and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. But I like animated stuff too, like Archer and Bob’s Burgers.”
Wanda tilted her head. “Huh… I’ve only ever heard of Bob’s Burgers, but I’ve never watched any of them. I think Pietro watches it sometimes?”
Now it was Rio’s turn to act scandalized. “ What?! You’ve never seen any of them?! Oh, we have to make a list of all the stuff we need to watch together. You show me your classics, I’ll show you mine.”
Wanda hesitated, then smiled softly. “I think I’d like that…”
Before the moment could stretch any longer, Alice’s voice rang from the side of the house.
“Rioooo!!! We’re ordering Domino’s cuz the munchies took over! Ask your girl if she’s got any dietary restrictions!” Alice giggled before Rio could correct her, already running back toward the garage.
Rio and Wanda’s faces simultaneously went red at the implication.
“I, um…” Rio cleared her throat. “Do you have any dietary restrictions?”
“No, not at all,” Wanda said quickly, laughing.
“We should probably, uh… head back.”
“Oh yeah, totally.”
They stubbed out their cigarettes, dropping them into the ashtray before making their way back to the garage and pointedly ignoring the knowing looks.
It didn’t take long for food to arrive (god bless small towns), the smell of fresh pizza filled the space. Alice was already tearing into a slice, and Pietro had somehow managed to claim an entire box for himself.
“You two were out for awhile,” Jen teased. “Was starting to think you ran off to make out or something.”
Rio rolled her eyes, but Wanda went pink, quickly grabbing a slice to busy herself.
Without thinking, Rio sat down next to Wanda on the couch, making sure to nudge over a box of pizza so she had easy access. The conversation shifted to random topics, complaints about classes, plans for skipping the upcoming pep rally, but Rio kept Wanda in her peripheral, casually making sure she felt included. And to her surprise, Wanda actually started speaking up here and there, even laughing at one of Alice’s dumb jokes.
Just as Rio was starting to feel good about the night, a familiar weight dropped onto her lap.
Agatha sighed dramatically, leaning back against Rio’s chest. “Ugh. I’m way too high to walk home. Drive me?”
Rio groaned. “Dude, I literally watched you take, like, two hits. You’re fine.”
Agatha nuzzled into her shoulder with a pout. “Yeah, but I wanna be spoiled . You love spoiling me, right baby?”
Rio’s face burned as she felt Wanda shift uncomfortably beside her. Huffing, she nudged Agatha. “Fine. But you’re paying for gas.”
Agatha grinned. “Deal.”
Rio glanced over at Wanda. “You need a ride too?”
Agatha groaned dramatically, rolling her eyes, but Wanda just smiled awkwardly. “Oh, uh- no, but thanks. Pietro and I drove together.”
“Right,” Rio nodded, trying to ignore the way Agatha snickered into her shoulder.
The conversation drifted on, the night winding down as the pizza boxes emptied. And even with Agatha practically clinging to her, Rio couldn’t help but glance at Wanda, who was quietly finishing her slice, shoulders a little looser, lips quirking up at something Pietro was saying.
At least for tonight, she looked like she belonged.
And Rio liked that.
It didn’t take long for the Maximoff family to receive warm welcomes from their new neighbors. Olek and Iryna had been showered with welcome baskets and coupons for local shops, fully embracing the smalltown warmth after years of living in dense cities. One Saturday, they made their way over to the Davis household to return Sharon’s brownie tray, bringing a bottle of wine as a thank you gift.
When they knocked, the door swung open to reveal Rio, a glass of lemonade in hand and a slight sheen of sweat on her forehead. Wearing black shorts and a Goo Goo Dolls shirt. Pietro grinned. “Rio, hey!”
Rio raised her brows, her grin wide. “Pietro! What’s up, man?” She dapped him up before turning to Wanda. Her expression softened. “Wanda, hi.”
Wanda’s mouth went dry. “Hi! We, um… we came to drop off the brownie tray and say thanks. Are Mr. Or Mrs. Davis here?”
Rio blinked, shaking herself from her daze. “Oh! Yeah, of course. The Mr is out taking care of a work emergency but the Mrs is fixing up some of his work shirts. Shouldn’t be much longer. Come on in.”
They stepped inside, settling onto the couch as Rio set down her glass, instantly switching into host mode. “I’m Rio Vidal. I go to school with Wanda and Pietro.” She flashed a warm smile. “Can I get you folks anything? Water, juice?”
Olek and Iryna exchanged amused glances before shaking her hand. “I’m Olek, and this is my wife, Iryna.”
“We’re alright on drinks, but thank you, dear,” Iryna said, already taking a liking to the girl.
Pietro leaned back, curious. “So, Rio, are you related to Mrs. Davis? You guys don’t look alike, and you have different last names.”
“Oh, no, I don’t even share a last name with my mom,” she replied easily. “And I’m not-”
She was cut off by Sharon bustling into the room. “Oh, Rio, I see you’ve met the Maximoffs!”
Rio smirked. “Yeah, I-”
“OH MY GOODNESS!” Sharon gasped, eyes landing on the bottle of wine. “Is this for me? You guys are lovely neighbors!”
Rio rolled her eyes playfully and mock-whispered, “Oh, Sharon’s always been a wine lover. You made the right choice.”
Everyone laughed as Sharon swatted Rio’s arm. “This one teases me, but I can’t stay mad at her, she does too much for me!”
Iryna smiled. “That’s sweet of you, Rio. I take it you’ve known each other awhile?”
Sharon beamed. “Oh, I’ve known her since she was a little thing!” She pinched Rio’s cheek, making her giggle. Wanda’s heart stuttered at the sound.
“She’s been helping me with my garden forever. Between me and YouTube, she’s practically an expert. But now that I’m getting older, she does most of the work. She even fixes my washing machine and sink when they break! The whole neighborhood loves her! Half the cost of the local handymen and landscapers, and twice as sweet.”
Rio waved a dismissive hand, smiling. “I just like helping my community.” She turned to Wanda’s parents. “I’d totally be up for doing some free yard work if you ever need it! Wanda mentioned you guys work from home, so I imagine you’d want a nice space to work in.”
“Oh, we couldn’t ask you to do that…” Olek began, but Rio shook her head.
“At least let us pay you,” he insisted.
Rio grinned. “How about we meet in the middle? I’ll give you a discount for being new to the neighborhood.”
Olek chuckled, shaking her hand. “Deal.”
Wanda watched, amazed at how easily Rio charmed everyone. It wasn’t just an act, she was genuinely warm, effortlessly folding people into her world. It was no wonder the whole neighborhood adored her.
“You should stay for dinner!” Sharon suggested brightly. “Rio’s mom comes by often. I’m sure she’d love to meet you if she hasn’t already.”
Olek and Iryna glanced at their kids, who offered nonchalant shrugs. “I mean, we don’t have anything planned for tonight.”
“How lovely!” Sharon clapped her hands. “We’ll pop open this wine when Lilia arrives, but for now, I’ll fix up more lemonade.”
Rio shot the Maximoffs a knowing look. “You guys better stay, she hand squeezes the best lemonade.” She winked before following Sharon.
Olek called back, “We wouldn’t dream of leaving now!”
Wanda let out a small breath, trying not to focus too hard on the fact that she was definitely, undeniably, hopelessly intrigued by Rio Vidal.
The Maximoffs sat patiently in the living room while Rio helped Sharon in the kitchen, their voices carrying through the house in cheerful chatter. Olek and Iryna nudged their kids to offer a hand, but Sharon waved them off, insisting that she and Rio had it covered. They were making pastries, Lilia always insisted on bringing the entrees and sides whenever she came for dinner.
An hour later, the front door swung open.
Todd Davis stepped in, shaking his head with a chuckle. “Honey, look who I found trying to carry three large dishes on foot! Saw her on my way home and figured I’d save her the trouble.”
Lilia followed, balancing the dishes with practiced ease.
Rio hurried over. “Mom! Why didn’t you tell me you were bringing all this? I would’ve jogged over to help.” She smiled, already taking the trays from her.
“Nonsense, dear! I had it handled just fine.” Lilia kissed Rio’s temple as she set the dishes down. “Besides, I was lucky enough to get a ride from Todd. And when you told me the Maximoffs were coming, I figured I’d go all out. I haven’t had the chance to properly welcome them.”
She turned to the family, offering a warm, confident smile as she extended her hand. “You must be Wanda and Pietro. Sweet Rio speaks highly of you two, you must’ve made quite the impression.”
Pietro smirked as he shook her hand. “Oh, I know one of us did.”
Wanda’s face went red.
Lilia raised a brow at her, amused. “I take it that must’ve been you?”
“Oh, um… I don’t know about that,” Wanda stammered. “We’ve only hung out once, and I don’t even have her number.” She let out a nervous laugh.
“Well, let’s change that.” Lilia’s smirk deepened. “Rio, honey, can I see your phone?”
“Yeah, of course!” Rio handed it over without hesitation, unlocking it as she did. There was an unmistakable ease between them, the kind that only came from deep trust. Wanda found herself smiling at that.
“Oh, by the way,” Rio added, glancing at Pietro, “it’s nice out, so Sharon wants to have dinner in the backyard. Did you wanna help me set up the chairs and table?”
Pietro shot her finger guns. “Say less.” He followed her outside, leaving Wanda alone with Lilia.
Lilia turned back to her, holding up Rio’s phone. “Put your number in.” Her tone wasn’t exactly a command, but it wasn’t a suggestion either.
Wanda blinked but quickly obliged, typing in her contact before handing the phone back.
Lilia squinted at the screen, tilting her head in that way older people did when reading small text. “Wanda Maximoff?” she mused. “Hmm. Well, we can’t have that.”
Wanda watched, wideeyed, as Lilia edited the contact name. When she turned the screen back around, it read:
Pretty Maximoff Girl ❤️
Wanda’s face burned. “Oh, I don’t know if-”
“Honey.” Lilia chuckled, slipping the phone back into her pocket. “Rio’s the most social girl in town. If she hasn’t asked for your number yet, it’s because you gave her a reason to be nervous.”
Wanda’s brain short-circuited at that thought.
Lilia patted her arm, wholly unfazed. “Now, be a dear and help me bring these dishes outside, would you?”
“Um- yes! Of course!” Wanda practically scrambled to grab a tray, ignoring the way her heart raced.
Lilia quickly turned to find Olek and Iryna who were watching tv, introducing and mingling with them as they waited for the table to be set
The Davis’ backyard glowed under the warm light of string lanterns, the scent of fresh herbs and lemon mixing with the rich aroma of Sicilian cooking. The long wooden table was set with mismatched but charming plates, glasses filled with freshly squeezed lemonade, and a generous spread of Lilia’s homemade dishes, pasta alla norma, arancini, and caponata.
As everyone settled into their seats, Sharon took her usual role as hostess, making sure everyone had enough to eat. "Now, don’t be shy! Lilia outdid herself tonight, so you’d better help yourselves before I go in for seconds."
"You mean thirds," Rio teased, nudging Sharon with her elbow. The table filled with laughter.
Lilia beamed as she passed a serving dish to Olek. "I figured since it was my first time properly meeting you all, I’d make something special. Sicilian cooking is all about making people feel at home."
"Well, mission accomplished," Iryna said warmly, twirling pasta around her fork. "Everything is absolutely delicious."
Pietro, already halfway through his plate, gave a thumbs up between bites. "I second that."
As the conversation flowed, Olek eventually turned to Lilia with a curious smile. "So, Lilia, are you and Rio related?"
Lilia set down her glass, glancing at Rio before answering with a soft smile. "She was originally supposed to be a foster, until I had formally adopted her. I just loved her immediately. But I could never ask for a more real daughter."
Rio huffed, clearly embarrassed but hiding a small smile as she focused on her food. Sharon, never missing a moment to embarrass her, leaned conspiratorially toward Iryna. "Oh, she’s been part of this neighborhood for so long, we just see her as Lilia’s kid. Everyone loves her."
As dinner wound down, people naturally drifted to different tasks. Wanda found herself in the kitchen, washing dishes beside Sharon, who chattered away while drying plates.
"Rio is such a good girl," Sharon said, stacking the clean plates neatly. "Always taking care of everyone, but never letting anyone take care of her."
Wanda, scrubbing at a stubborn bit of sauce on a dish, nodded. "She seems really… kind."
"Oh, she is," Sharon sighed. "And that Agatha girl… Rio tends to her with nothing in return. Don’t get me wrong, I love Rio to bits, but sometimes I think she needs someone to take care of her for once."
Wanda hesitated, hands slightly shaking as she rinsed the dish. She wasn’t sure why the comment made her chest tighten.
Sharon gave her a knowing smile. "You seem like a good girl, Wanda. Maybe you’ll be the one to look after her, huh?"
Wanda nearly dropped the plate.
Meanwhile, outside, Rio and Pietro were clearing off the table.
“So… your sister is really nice,” Rio said, her tone casual but thoughtful. “Is she settling in okay?”
Pietro smirked. “You know we’re both new here, right? You gonna ask about me too, or just keep obsessing over Wanda?”
Rio’s eyes widened. “Oh- sorry, I didn’t mean to-”
“Relax, Rio,” he interrupted with a chuckle. “I’m just messing with you.” He tossed a crumpled napkin into a trash bag with a lazy flick of his wrist. “It’s cool if you wanna make a move or whatever. You’d make a pretty decent sister-in-law. Just make sure your little blue-eyed situationship doesn’t hex her first.”
Rio rolled her eyes but didn’t argue, focusing instead on stacking chairs. She didn’t need to defend Agatha, Pietro wasn’t entirely wrong.
Inside, the adults had migrated to the living room, sipping wine and falling into easy conversation about the contrast between city life and small-town charm. Lilia, ever the quiet observer, asked thoughtful questions about Wanda and Pietro’s adjustment, making mental notes in the way only a mother could. Meanwhile, Todd held the room’s attention with one of his signature exaggerated stories about managing a production company, his animated gestures making Iryna and Olek laugh over their drinks.
The school week rolled by easily, with the group only managing to hang out twice. Everyone had been caught up in schoolwork, but when they did get together, the energy was as effortless as the first time.
More often than not, Rio and Wanda found themselves separated from the others. Wanda would retreat to a quiet corner with her sketchbook, and Rio joined her. Wanda insisted she didn’t need a babysitter, but Rio waved it off, claiming she was just working on whatever AP Biochem assignments she had.
She even opted out of the smoke sesh that week, still stepping out with Wanda for cig breaks. But no matter how things started, they always ended the same way, Agatha wrapping herself around Rio, like she was making a point. Wanda could feel the way Agatha’s eyes flicked toward her, almost taunting, like she saw her as a threat.
By the time Friday rolled around, Rio went home after school before heading to the Maximoff residence to keep her promise of handling their yard work. She had been at it for a few hours, trimming hedges, mowing the lawn, pulling weeds, and spreading grass care products, until the sun started dipping below the horizon.
When she finally finished, she knocked on the front door to let them know. Iryna answered with a warm smile.
“Oh, dear, thank you so much for the help! We’ve only ever lived in apartments, so we had no idea what to do with the yard,” she said with a grateful laugh. “Why don’t you come in for a glass of orange juice? Pietro is out, but Wanda’s in the living room.”
Rio wiped her hands on her jeans and smiled. “Oh, thank you! I hope it’s not too much trouble.”
“Nonsense.” Iryna shook her head, practically ushering Rio inside before she could protest. They exchanged a few more pleasantries before Iryna excused herself upstairs, leaving Rio alone in the kitchen. From where she stood, she could see Wanda curled up on the couch, completely absorbed in whatever was on the TV, unaware of the world around her.
Rio smiled at the sight before making her way over. Onscreen, a woman was talking animatedly with her friend about her husband, Ricky. Then Rio caught the name Lucy.
“So, this is I Love Lucy ?” she asked from behind the couch.
Wanda yelped, jolting slightly before twisting around to look at her. “Oh- uh, yeah! Sorry, I didn’t realize you were done outside.” She hesitated. “Was it, um… difficult? The yard work?”
“Nothing I’m not used to.” Rio shrugged before nodding toward the open space beside Wanda. “Mind if I indulge? I believe you made a promise to show me some of this.” She smirked.
Wanda’s eyes widened slightly. “Oh! No, yeah- of course!” She scrambled to move her legs and clear some pillows, making space for Rio.
As Rio sat down, Wanda hesitated for a moment, then grabbed the remote. “Wait, if this is your first time watching, I should show you one of the more popular episodes.” She navigated through the selections. “Season two, episode one, Job Switching. It’s the one where Lucy and Ethel work at a chocolate factory.”
She glanced at Rio, as if to make sure she was okay with the switch.
“Chocolate and chaos?” Rio grinned. “Sounds like a good time.”
Wanda smiled to herself, pressing play.
Rio watched with mild intrigue at first, half expecting it to be some soapy, dated housewife comedy. But it was more than that. The comedic timing, the exaggerated expressions. It was surprisingly sharp.
Then came the chocolate factory scene. As the conveyor belt sped up, Lucy and Ethel scrambled to keep up, stuffing chocolates into their mouths, shirts, and hats in pure desperation. By the time Lucy’s cheeks were puffed out like squirrels, both Rio and Wanda were crying laughing.
“Okay, okay- tell me this isn’t just like that episode of Drake & Josh where they did the same thing with sushi,” Rio said between breaths.
Wanda gasped. “Yes! Like I said, this show is a classic. There’s been a ton of shows and movies that reference this scene, it’s iconic.”
Rio nodded, still grinning. She had to admit, she genuinely enjoyed it. The only old shows she’d ever indulged in were The Twilight Zone and Classic Doctor Who , and those weren’t exactly known for their comedy.
Wanda turned to her, eager. “So? What’d you think?”
Rio smiled. “Oh, it was incredible, for sure… but now I’m scared to show you my shows… I’m not sure if you’d like em, they’re a bit more crude.”
Wanda scoffed, rolling her eyes. “Try me.” She handed Rio the remote.
Rio didn’t hesitate, quickly switching over to Community , Season 3, Episode 4, Remedial Chaos Theory . “This is the best episode,” she said confidently. “Critics and fans both love it.”
Wanda raised a brow, amused. “High praise. Alright, let’s see what it’s got.”
As the theme song played, Rio grinned and held up an invisible microphone, dramatically singing every word. Wanda giggled, shaking her head.
The episode was pure chaos in the best way. The characters rolled a die to decide who had to get up and retrieve the pizza, but each roll played out a different timeline. With every side of the die, the scenarios grew more and more outrageous, arguments escalated, a character got shot, another got way too high, and by the time Troy picked up the pizza, the entire apartment was in flames.
When that moment hit, Wanda practically wheezed with laughter. “Oh my god ! I’ve seen a gif of this on Tumblr before!”
Rio grinned, triumphant. “See? In a way, this is just as much of a classic as your show. Just give it time.”
As the credits rolled, Rio nudged her. “So? I take it you enjoyed that?”
Wanda wiped at her eyes, still recovering from her teary laughter fit. “Oh god, yes. It’s definitely different from what I usually watch, but I loved it! I can’t believe I haven’t seen that before.”
Rio beamed at Wanda’s reaction. “I’m glad you liked it. I believe it’s your turn again.” She tossed her the remote.
The two spent hours flipping between their favorite shows, introducing eachother to different eras of television. The Dick Van Dyke Show , It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia , The Brady Bunch , Bob’s Burgers , they laughed, debated which characters were the best, and occasionally paused to grab snacks from the kitchen.
Just as they started an episode of The Mary Tyler Moore Show , the doorbell rang. Wanda and Rio both moved to get up, but Olek was already heading down the stairs. “I’ve got it!” he called, waving them off.
Pietro strolled in just as they were settling back down, smirking at the sight of them giggling together. “You two seem like you’re having fun.”
Rio grinned. “Your sister’s been showing me some of her favorite shows, and I’ve been returning the favor.”
“We didn’t even realize how late it was,” Wanda added with a nervous laugh, glancing at the time. “Should you be heading home soon?”
“Uh, yeah, maybe,” Rio admitted, stretching her arms with a yawn.
Before she could move to grab her things, Olek appeared in the doorway, a thoughtful expression on his face. “Hey, why don’t you stay over? I know you don’t live far, but it’s late, and we wouldn’t want you driving home exhausted. Plus, consider it a little extra repayment since you only charged us half for the yard work! We’ll even make you breakfast in the morning.”
Rio hesitated. “Oh, uh, sure! I mean, I can crash on the couch. It’s honestly bigger than my bed, I’ve been using a twin-size mattress my whole life.” She laughed.
“Nonsense! We’d never make a guest sleep on the couch,” Olek insisted, already waving Pietro over. “Pietro, grab the air mattress, it’s a full size. That way, you and Wanda can hang out in here all night. It’s the weekend anyway!”
Wanda and Rio barely had time to protest before Pietro was already on his way, and soon enough, the air mattress was being set up in front of the TV.
It quickly became a tradition. Every Friday after school, Rio did yard work for the Maximoffs, then spent the evening watching sitcoms with Wanda, eventually falling asleep in the living room. Each time, they grew a little closer, not just as friends, but physically too.
One night, they got so caught up in a show that they completely forgot about the air mattress. When Pietro came downstairs the next morning, he found them curled up on the couch, Wanda’s head resting on Rio’s chest, their limbs tangled together like it was the most natural thing in the world. Naturally, he took a picture… and then showed it to all their family and friends, including Mr. and Mrs. Davis. After that, he wouldn’t stop teasing either of them.
Eventually, they decided to switch things up and watch something neither of them had seen before, a way to try something new together. They landed on New Girl , which quickly became their new obsession.
The next morning, as Rio was heading out, Olek and Iryna quietly stopped her at the door.
“Thank you,” Iryna said softly. “For being so kind to our girl.”
Olek nodded, his expression warm. “She’s never had many friends… so it really means a lot.”
Rio smiled to herself the whole drive home.
Wanda had continued tagging along to group hangouts, even if she still preferred staying quietly off to the side most of the time. Rio was just glad she got her alone time with her on Fridays, when Wanda really came to life, smiling and laughing without reservation.
Unfortunately, Agatha had caught on early to Rio’s newfound Friday plans with the Maximoffs. And now, her passive aggressiveness toward Wanda increased tenfold. She could tell the girl had a crush on Rio, and she lived for dangling that fact in front of her.
One day, while they were hanging out by the train tracks, the path ahead was muddy.
“Rio! Could you be a doll and carry me? I don’t think these boots were made for this,” Agatha called out, pouting dramatically.
Rio turned to her with an unimpressed look. “Agatha, we’ve done this a million times. And we’re literally wearing the same Docs.”
Agatha simply raised an eyebrow, and after a long, drawn-out stare, Rio let out a groan before begrudgingly lifting her up piggyback-style.
Another time, they were exploring an abandoned building. Rio had just hoisted Wanda up to a ledge she couldn’t quite reach when Agatha suddenly stepped forward.
“My turn!” she announced, stepping into Rio’s arms before she could protest. But as soon as Rio lifted her, Agatha deliberately pushed off the wall, sending them both tumbling. Rio stumbled back as Agatha landed on top of her, straddling her waist with a wicked smirk.
“This is a familiar position,” Agatha purred.
Rio grumbled, shoving her off with a huff, but still offered her a hand up, out of sheer reflex. Wanda, watching the whole thing, had to fight the urge to gag. The rest of their friends just sighed, too used to Agatha’s antics to react.
But the worst moment, by far, was at the mall.
They had just left Hot Topic, and Rio and Wanda had picked out matching cat ear headbands, giggling as they put them on. As they sat down to eat, Agatha lazily leaned on the table, eyeing Rio with feigned sympathy.
“Oh, honey,” she drawled, rolling her eyes at the headband. “You don’t need that silly thing. Your hair looks so sexy when you wear it down.”
She ran her fingers through Rio’s hair, twirling a strand before giving it a firm tug. Then, she turned to Wanda with a smug little grin.
“Wanda, tell her she looks sexy with her hair worn down.”
Rio started to protest, “Agatha, that’s-” but Agatha just gave another playful tug.
The whole group froze. Wanda shifted uncomfortably, glancing at Rio, who looked less than thrilled. But Agatha sat there, waiting.
Her voice was quiet when she finally spoke. “Your um… your hair looks sexy when you wear it down.”
Agatha smiled like she had won something. And Wanda? She just felt pathetic .
By now, the semester was nearly over. Finals were next week, and the group had gathered in Alice’s garage to study. Pietro wasn’t there today, but Rio had invited Wanda anyway.
They were in the middle of arguing over who should control the aux when they ultimately decided to make a group playlist and put it on shuffle.
Agatha opened her mouth, and everyone braced themselves for whatever bullshit was about to come out.
“Fine, I guess that makes sense,” she drawled. “But don’t let Wanda add anything.”
Wanda barely reacted. She already knew Agatha didn’t like her. It wasn’t like she felt like part of the friend group anyway, she only showed up for Rio and Pietro. Still, the jab stung.
Rio groaned. “What the fuck is your problem?”
The garage fell silent. Rio was always so sweet, so easygoing, she never snapped. Jen, who was usually the one calling Agatha out, looked the most surprised.
Agatha just giggled, feigning innocence. “Wow, Wanda, your little guard dog’s got bite. Lucky for me, it’s nothing we haven’t done before.”
Rio stiffened, her jaw clenching. Wanda lowered her gaze to the table.
Jen sighed, stepping in. “Agatha, come on. Why do you do this? Can we hash this out before finals week? I’m not dealing with your shit when I’m supposed to be studying.”
Agatha smirked, leaning back in her seat. “I just don’t get why she’s here. She keeps to herself, barely even talks to us. She only shows up cuz her brother drags her everywhere, but today, he’s not here.” She turned to Wanda with a faux-curious tilt of her head. “So what are you doing here?”
Rio’s fists clenched. “Agatha, I invited her. Can you stop being a cunt for one day ?”
The room stayed silent. It was hard to piss Rio off.
Which is why Agatha kept going .
“I’m just saying,” she continued, smirking. “Just because she wears black and puts on some eyeshadow doesn’t mean she’s one of us . She’s not even a real emo, I literally caught her listening to Taylor Swift in class the other day.”
Rio let out a dry, humorless laugh, burying her face in her hands. “Agatha, what the fuck does that even-” She exhaled sharply, lifting her head. “That literally doesn’t mean shit! We live in the fucking white ass suburbs of New Jersey, even I listen to Taylor Swift!”
Wanda swallowed, feeling heat rise to her face. She shut her notebook and reached for her bag. “I can go if it’s a problem…”
Agatha snickered. “Yeah, you should.”
“No.” Rio shot up from her seat, her voice sharp. “You can stay.” She turned, eyes burning into Agatha. “ You . Outside. Now.”
Agatha hesitated. Sure, she knew Rio was mad. But she usually let her get away with anything and wasn’t expecting to actually get scolded.
Rio didn’t wait, she was already stomping toward the garage door. After a moment, Agatha rolled her eyes and followed.
The three left inside sat awkwardly, listening as the muffled argument bled through the walls. They couldn’t make out all the words, but they knew it was heated.
Jen turned to Wanda with a small smile. “Hey… I’m really sorry about Agatha. She can be a lot, especially if she’s not particularly fond of you. But, we think you’re cool.”
Wanda forced a thin smile but didn’t say anything.
Her fingers curled around the strap of her bag. She cast a glance toward the garage door, where Rio’s angry voice still cut through the air.
“I’m, uh… I’m probably gonna head out,” Wanda said, shifting awkwardly. “My parents probably want me home, but, um… I’m sorry if I made things awkward.”
She quickly gathered her things and speed-walked home, not stopping when Alice and Jen called after her, telling her it was fine, that she could stay, or at least let them give her a ride.
Meanwhile, Rio and Agatha were still going at it, their argument spiraling into stupid, angsty back-and-forths until Rio finally snapped.
“I don’t get it, Agatha.” She threw her hands up. “You were the one who said you just wanted to be friends with benefits, nothing more. I told you I’d be fine with that until either you fessed up about your feelings or I found someone who actually wanted to date me. We don’t even know if Wanda likes me back, but you can’t handle the idea of it, can you? So just tell me, what do you want out of this? Because I’m sick of you acting like you have some weird claim on me when you don’t even want me!”
Agatha let out a slow sigh. “Listen, I said I was sorry, okay?” She rubbed the back of her neck, avoiding Rio’s glare. “It’s just… you’re great, Rio. Everyone loves you. And I… I just didn’t think you’d ever actually like anyone back, so I thought we were cool the way we were.”
Rio crossed her arms, clearly unimpressed.
Agatha exhaled sharply, rolling her eyes before admitting, “I mean, yeah, I think you give some bomb-ass head, and you’d probably make a great wife someday. But I just… don’t want a relationship. I thought maybe I’d get there eventually, but… I don’t think that time’s coming anytime soon.”
Rio studied her, her frustration still simmering.
Agatha shifted uncomfortably before forcing herself to keep going. “I know I can’t keep you waiting forever. It was fucked up of me to think that was okay.” She hesitated, as if the next part physically pained her to say. “And… I’m sorry for being a dick to Wanda, too. You know I love pissing people off, but… I should stick to people who deserve it.”
Rio let out a breath, letting the words settle. The anger was still there, but at least now it had somewhere to go.
“…C’mon.” She gestured toward the garage. “Let’s go back inside.”
Agatha nodded, wordlessly following.
When they stepped inside, Rio immediately noticed something was off.
“Where’s Wanda?”
Alice and Jen exchanged a look. Jen sighed. “She left.”
Rio’s stomach sank. “What?”
“She thought she made things awkward,” Alice added. “We told her she didn’t have to go, but she just… took off.”
Rio stood frozen for a second before muttering, “Shit.”
She pulled out her phone and spent the rest of the evening calling Wanda at least twenty times, blowing up her phone like a drunk ex trying to get back together on New Year’s Eve.
Except she wasn’t drunk, she wasn’t an ex, and it definitely wasn’t New Year’s Eve.
She thought about going to Wanda’s house to apologize for how the night had gone, but she knew Wanda probably had studying to do. The last thing Rio wanted was to stress her out even more. She figured she needed space, and Rio would give her that… for now.
But she’d be damned if she let the girl of her dreams slip away that easily.
Rio finished her last final early, which meant freedom. No more school, no more exams, no more agonizing over grades. She should have been ecstatic. Instead, she just felt… empty.
She could’ve hung around, waited for her friends, maybe gone to grab a celebratory snack or something. But then she saw her.
Wanda Maximoff.
She never responded to any of Rio’s calls or texts. Not a single one. She might as well have dropped off the face of the Earth. Pietro had stopped bringing her along too, mumbling some excuse about how she just “wasn’t feeling up for a hangout.” It stung. It sucked.
And yet, here she was, under the same tree she always liked, tucked into the shade, doodling away in her notebook like nothing had changed. Wearing that same black dress and leather jacket from the first time Rio saw her, looking like some tragic misunderstood superhero villain. All quiet and brooding and effortlessly, annoyingly gorgeous.
God, Rio missed her.
She missed Wanda’s laugh. She missed the way she’d get worked up over a movie they were watching. She missed those stupid little sitcom nights, even though it had barely been over a week. A week! It wasn’t even that long, but it felt like an eternity.
She tried to shake off the feeling, but the more she stared, the worse it got. The pining turned into nerves. It’s not like Westview was some big city, it was tiny, and quite hard to avoid someone for this long. So, what if Wanda really didn’t want to talk to her? What if she had finally decided that Rio wasn’t worth the trouble?
That thought made her stomach twist in a way she really didn’t like. Rio exhaled sharply, forcing herself to move. No more overthinking, just do something.
With one last deep breath, she started the song and walked over.
“Hey.” She smiled, trying to keep her voice light.
Wanda stiffened, shutting her sketchbook a little too quickly. “Um… hi.”
“Mind if I sit?”
A small pause. Then, Wanda nodded.
For a moment, they just sat there. The shade from the tree cast long shadows between them, the space still heavy with everything unsaid. Rio exhaled, then finally spoke.
“I haven’t seen you in a minute… I know things got kinda weird last time we hung out, and I just-” She inhaled sharply. “I wanted to check in. See if you’re okay. And if I did anything to upset you… but mostly, I wanna know if you’re alright. I, uh…” Her voice wavered slightly, but she pushed through. “I missed you.”
Wanda’s lips parted, caught off guard. A flicker of something softened in her eyes, but she quickly composed herself. “I’ve been alright. You didn’t do anything wrong, I just…” She hesitated. “I don’t think your girlfriend likes me very much.”
Rio’s whole body tensed. “She’s not my girlfriend!” she blurted out way too fast, her eyes going wide. “I mean- um- yeah, we used to hook up, but we never dated. I think… I think she’s just not used to me giving other girls attention.”
Wanda swallowed, looking away. “Oh. She’s really uh- I don’t know, it just seemed like you two were…”
A beat of silence passed before Rio changed the subject. “So, what were you working on? I don’t think I’ve seen any of your drawings yet.” She shot her a teasing look. “And if my memory serves me right, you wore this exact outfit the day I told you I’d love to see them.”
Wanda huffed out a small, reluctant laugh. Still, she opened her sketchbook, revealing an intricate mountain landscape, parts of it blocked by mesmerizing colored hexagons.
Rio’s brows lifted. “Wanda… this is incredible. You made it sound like you just doodle in the margins of notebooks, but this? This is art.”
Wanda flushed slightly. Rio flipped through a few more pages, taking in each one with growing awe, until she turned to an older drawing.
“Wait- Rio, not that-”
But it was too late.
It was a sketch of her. Dated not long after they met.
Rio’s breath hitched. She barely had time to process it before Wanda snapped the book shut, fumbling to shove it into her bag.
“I’m so sorry, you weren’t supposed to see that-” Wanda started, already moving to leave.
Rio, acting on pure instinct, gently grabbed her wrist. “Wait!”
Wanda froze.
Rio swallowed hard, her grip loosening but not letting go. “It’s okay. I promise.” She took a shaky breath, then blurted, “Would you wanna share an earbud with me?”
Wanda hesitated but slowly settled back down, eyeing Rio warily as she dug through her pocket. She handed over an earbud, cueing up a song before pressing play.
The opening notes of Sparks Fly played softly between them.
Wanda’s expression twitched, like she was fighting a smile. Rio had spent enough time around her to recognize it. She grinned. “Told you I’m a Swiftie.”
They sat there, letting the music fill the space between them.
Get me with those green eyes, baby
As the lights go down
Gimme something that’ll haunt me when you’re not around
’Cause I see sparks fly whenever you smile
Rio let out a quiet laugh, shaking her head. “I’ve, uh… been listening to this song a lot more than usual lately.”
Wanda tilted her head slightly, her voice softer now. “Oh yeah?”
Rio swallowed, glancing down at her hands. “Yeah. It’s kind of embarrassing, actually. But I guess it just… reminds me of you. You know, pretty green eyes and all, um…”
She exhaled a little laugh, rubbing the back of her neck. “I’ve been missing you, Wanda. A lot. I didn’t realize how much I’d gotten used to having you around until you weren’t. No sitcom nights, no listening to you rant about whatever weird art project you’re working on, no pretending I don’t know our friends or Sharon or my mom are trying to set us up…” She broke off, forcing a chuckle. “I mean, even when you weren’t saying much, it was just… nice, y’know?”
She looked over, trying to read Wanda’s expression, but the other girl was quiet, her fingers absentmindedly fidgeting with the cord of the earbud.
The song ended. A weighted pause settled between them.
Then, without a word, Wanda reached for Rio’s phone. She scrolled through the playlist for a moment before selecting a new song.
The dreamy, weightless opening of Gold Rush played.
Rio’s heart skipped.
Wanda kept her eyes down as she murmured, “I’ve been listening to this one a lot lately.”
Rio didn’t have to ask why. The lyrics answered for her.
I don’t like anticipating my face in a red flush
I don’t like that anyone would die to feel your touch
Everybody wants you
Everybody wonders what it would be like to love you
Rio’s breath caught. She turned to Wanda, only to find her already looking at her.
But before she could say anything, Wanda quickly glanced away, focusing on a stray thread on her sleeve, pretending like she hadn’t just peeled herself open right in front of Rio.
And suddenly, Rio understood. The song played on, but Rio wasn’t sure she was even breathing anymore. Wanda had just kind of basically admitted it… but Rio still hesitated. Did she mean…?
Rio tried to think of something to say, something that wouldn’t shatter this delicate moment between them. She watched Wanda, the way she deliberately avoided eye contact, her fingers absentmindedly twisting the earbud cord like she hadn’t just laid herself bare.
She wanted to be smooth about it, to say something teasing or effortless, but instead, what came out was quiet, almost hesitant.
“Hey, um… do you wanna hang out next Friday?”
Wanda finally looked up, blinking in surprise. “Like, our usual sitcom nights?”
Rio swallowed, forcing herself to sound casual. “Well… I was thinking more like… since we’ll be free from finals, um- we could go into the city? Hit up a record store, maybe find a cafe with live music or something.” She hesitated, then added, “Only if you want to.”
Wanda was quiet for a beat before tilting her head slightly. “…Like a date?”
Rio felt her pulse stutter. She gave a nervous smile, rubbing the back of her neck. “Well… I’d like for it to be. If you’re okay with that.”
Wanda studied her, expression unreadable, and for a moment, Rio braced herself for rejection. But then, after what felt like an eternity, Wanda’s lips curled into a small, shy smile.
“I would be more than okay with that.”
Rio let out a breath she didn’t realize she’d been holding, a slow grin spreading across her face.
“Cool,” she said, failing to sound as nonchalant as she wanted. “It’s a date.”
They sat together, the gentle hum of passing songs filling the space between them. Every so often, Wanda would take Rio’s phone, adding something to the queue, only for Rio to groan or grin depending on the song choice. Wanda laughed when Rio dramatically clutched her chest at one of her picks, some moody deep cut that, according to Rio, “hurt in the best way.”
“You’re so dramatic,” Wanda teased, nudging her shoulder against Rio’s.
“You love it,” Rio shot back with a smirk, but her voice was softer than usual, more careful. Wanda didn’t argue.
After a while, Rio absentmindedly scrolled through her playlists when Wanda suddenly asked, “What’s your favorite Taylor album?”
Rio’s hand stilled over her phone. “…Lover.”
Wanda raised an eyebrow. “Really?”
“Yeah, really. It’s so… it just makes me feel something, you know?” Rio shrugged, glancing at Wanda. “Like, it’s dreamy and hopeful, but also kinda bittersweet. And I don’t know, Alice says I’m a lovergirl at heart so I guess it fits.”
Wanda’s expression softened, like she was seeing Rio in a new light. “I wouldn’t have guessed that, but I could definitely see it.”
Rio grinned. “Okay, your turn. Favorite album?”
Wanda smirked, sitting up a little straighter. “Reputation.”
Rio’s eyes widened. “Oh, of course it is.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?” Wanda asked, feigning offense.
Rio laughed. “It just fits you, that’s all. The mystery, the walls up, the cute little brooding artist thing you’ve got going on…” She nudged Wanda playfully. “Let me guess, your favorite song is ‘Don’t Blame Me’?”
Wanda tilted her head, amused. “That’s a good one, but no.”
Rio gasped dramatically. “Then what is it?”
Wanda hesitated for a second, then said, “‘Delicate or Call It What You Want.’”
Rio’s teasing expression faltered slightly, her heart skipping a beat. She swallowed. “Those are good ones.”
Wanda looked at her for a moment before nudging her back. “Okay, favorite Lover song, then?”
Rio didn’t even hesitate. “‘False God’ or ‘The Archer.’”
Wanda’s eyebrows lifted slightly. “Huh.”
“What?”
“Nothing, just…” Wanda smiled to herself. “‘The Archer,’ really?”
Rio huffed a laugh. “What can I say? Existential dread, self-sabotage, yearning, it’s got everything.”
Wanda hummed, looking down like she was rolling the thought around in her head. “And False God ?”
Rio’s voice dropped just slightly. “I just think it’s… hot.”
Wanda inhaled sharply and flicked her gaze back up, cheeks tinting the faintest shade of pink. Rio grinned, satisfied with herself.
They sat in silence for a beat, something unspoken passing between them, until the distant sound of a school bell signaled the final period ending. Slowly, the quiet field around them came to life as students poured out of the building, the weight of finals lifting from their shoulders.
Rio spotted their friends first. Alice and Pietro were walking toward them, their expressions unreadable for half a second, until Alice wiggled her brows and Pietro smirked knowingly. Jen leaned toward Alice, whispering something that made them both giggle, no doubt gossiping about how finally someone had made a move.
Agatha, standing slightly apart from the others, met Rio’s gaze. Her smile wasn’t teasing or smug like it had been in the past, it was knowing, understanding. It said I’m happy for you .
Rio rolled her eyes but couldn’t stop the grin creeping onto her face. Wanda let out a breathy chuckle beside her, shaking her head.
“Well,” Rio said, standing up and stretching before holding a hand out to Wanda. “Guess it’s time to celebrate.”
Wanda hesitated, but only for a second, before slipping her hand into Rio’s. As she stood, Rio instinctively draped an arm around her shoulders, pulling her in just enough to make the warmth settle between them again. Wanda didn’t pull away.
As they walked toward their friends, the weight of the past few weeks, the uncertainty, the distance, the miscommunications ,felt like something that could be left behind. Maybe this was the start of something new.
Maybe this was the start of them.