Snippet #2546170

"My sister really doesn't like you," Valentino says. We're sitting at a table in a fast-food restaurant. "No dip," I say, laughing. My head feels like it's about to explode. I haven't taken a magic hit this whole day. It's all I can do to act normal. "How do you put up with someone like that?"
"No, seriously. I have something to ask you."
"Ask it then."
"Well, I, uh..." He scratches his head awkwardly. "I was just, okay, you might be mad at me but..."
"Hurry up and fucking say it. Jeez."
"Are...are you using some type of technology to seduce me?"
"Am I what?" The question takes me by surprise. I was expecting an awkward breakup or something.
"Well, I don't know. I can't think of a good reason why I would like you...plus I know you are in the advanced class for mental tech..."
"Fo' real, you think that? No, I'm not. I don't even think that's possible."
He seems relieved. "Good-"
"What are you doing with my brother, bitch?" Lucinda's icy cold voice startles me, but I keep my cool.
"Come on, Lucinda. You really couldn't tell we was together? Like all dis time?" All this time being one day, but I exaggerate to make Lucinda mad.
"Lucindaaaaaaa! I didn't know you came here!" I hate how much Valentino looks up to his sister. It's his one flaw, how much of a pushover he is, but add being Hex royalty and I'm willing to overlook that.
"Really, Valentino? Get lost, Renee. I need to talk to my brother in private."
I am about to retort, but then Lucinda yells at the air, not even looking at me- "Shut up!"
Valentino looks worried, much more so than I would think he'd be for a random comment. "Come on, Lucinda, let's go." He leans down to kiss me on the cheek. Lucinda doesn't even notice. Her eyes are glazed over and she's muttering to herself, like she's hearing voices. Great. Now the bitch is psycho. Well, that was predictable.
"Catch you later." Valentino's eyes are apologetic. "Yeah, okay, go help her," I say in a rush.
They leave and I pull out a bottle of liquid magic. It's technically illegal, but I've been taking it for 3 years. Being only half Hex, the Magic part of me gives me headaches if technology is too dominant. I take liquid magic to maintain balance. Most of the Halfies do it, we just don't talk about it much.