Mari was being a good girl. She's very talented in that manner, especially when compared to her twin sister. (Jess got the rebellious streak for both of them, I think, and so does Mari.)

She was sitting on a stool behind the counter in her mother's florist shop--probably her favorite place in the whole world, excluding her room--and reading. Hair in a ponytail, green t-shirt and blue jeans, green tennis shoes that matched the t-shirt. Her favorite shoes ever.

(What was she reading? One of her mother's books, one of the magical history ones. By some Dr. Barclay or other, she didn't care. It was just interesting.)

She wondered vaguely whether Mom had talked Jess into room painting or if her twin had made it out in time to escape the painting but not the lecture that would come later.

Amanda is a sneaky lady.

She sneaks up behind Mari and gives her an attack-hug.

And then kinda leans on her shoulder, because Amanda is tired.

At least this daughter liked her.

Sometimes.

Maybe.

Yay self-pity!

Boo teenagers!

There aren't many customers, thankfully, or Amanda wouldn't be doing this. Professional attitude in public, yessir.

Mari blinked in surprise and almost dropped her (mother's) book.

"Well, hi to you too." She twisted around a little and hugged back. "Get all that painting done that you wanted to, Mom?"

Sometimes, Mari still calls Amanda Mommy. Mostly when she really wants to be affectionate, and not regularly.