There was nods as Cat answered the question. She would never admit how much she read that book.. or how much she loved it. But she still had questions!

"How did you get the courage to write it? I'd die of embarrassment if anyone read my work..."

Little did Aki know she was feeding Cat ammo in her life. "Only thing I ever manage to put out is my art and that's rare..."

The Following question came naturally, almost as if she expected it. Though she did take a mental note of Aki's words.

"Well, it certainly wasn't easy in the beginning. But once I started getting feedback on my projects I came to realize that while it might be embarrassing for me for a short while, out there there is someone who will read my works and it will help them to understand or perhaps even discover an aspect of themselves they did not know about."

A surprisingly somber thought. But as she looked at Aki, she knew that she was right.

Turning the conversation to perhaps a lighter subject "Your Art?" A curious tone tried to tempt Aki. "Oh I would love to see any works of art you've made, whether it be painted or written." The last bit said to let Aki know she had caught to her prior words.

The look of deep thought, the shaking of her head. And was that the hint of returning blush stopped mid-way? Cathrine could only make assumptions based on what she saw. But she was definitely forming some theories.

But what internal thought Aki was going through was halted as Cathrine made her request. Cathrine’s gaze followed Aki as she stood up, she watched as Aki found her phone and went over to her side but hesitated to simply plop down. Instead, Aki merely offered to show her the art.

Cathrine took a quick sip of the tea and then said. “Of course I would like to see your work!” She made a gentle gesture toward the spot by her side. “And please do sit down. I promise I won’t bite unless you ask nicely.” A light teasing streak found its way into her voice.

TAG: Aki Kumori

Aki was quick to comply. Snuggling into the seat, leaning slightly closer to Cathrine. Their eyes locked. And there it was. The return of the blush. Cathrine didn’t mind it, in fact, it suited her by now. Cathrine adjusted herself leaning in so she could properly look.

Though she tried not to pry. She did let her eyes glance at whatever the phone screen might show as Aki found the ‘art’ folder.

Cathrine watched as Aki scrolled through the sketches. She found herself enamored by the art style and its cuteness. She sent an almost mischievous look in Aki’s direction at the mention of a website.

“Well, I am no artist when it comes to brush and paint. But I will say. I think it looked pretty good!” Cathrine began. “So, if you’ll give me the link to that website it will definitely get a new follower.”

TAG: Aki Kumori

Cathrine was taken by surprise when Aki mentioned fanart. “Oh you did?” A certain newfound enthusiasm found its way into Cathrine’s voice. This would be a first for her. Mostly because she didn’t often engage with the artistic side of her fandom.

And while Aki was digging for the fanart. She quickly mentioned the greenhouse. “Well, your product is clearly good. You have to show me that greenhouse of yours!” As with all things Cathrine was always interested in finding places to get inspired. Perhaps she would find an idea there.

Anyhow, back to the fan art! Cathrine felt Aki’s head leaning against her shoulder as Aki scrolled through, letting Cathrine’s eyes take in each picture. The depictions were definitely good. Of course, there were differences as there always would be given two different sets of eyes. But they were still good. “Oh, I wouldn’t even use the word ‘correct’ here. I might put the words on paper. But I can’t determine how your mind interprets it.”

“But I can definitely see what it is meant to depict and as with your other work I’d say it looks pretty good. You should definitely keep doing what you are doing.” She paused. “Do you have any more art to show?” Cathrine asked enthusiastically.

Oh, so she does keep something from me?

Curiosity had taken hold. She wanted to see. “I am sure it is good. I am not a critic Aki, I am a fan.” Cathrine complimented. “As for the content.” She gave a slightly raised eyebrow glance at Aki. “Based on the content of my books. Do you think a little not safe for work content scares me?”

But she sent Aki an understanding smile. “But I do understand if you don’t want to show it here. But know that I would love to see it no matter what it depicts.”

Cathrine gave an accepting nod and left it at that. No need to pressure, no need to speak further.

The conversation moved on to Minerva. Another nod was given. She could not deny the skill Minerva possessed, as she took yet another sip of the tea. By now her cup was starting to reach its middle. “Really? Since you were sixteen?” Cathrine questioning.

“And of course, you can get my number. But there’s a condition. I get yours too.” She would truly be surprised if Aki denied the request. But you could never be sure in these times.

TAG: Aki Kumori