[ mal is a little concerned. maybe even a tiny bit afraid. but mostly she is unrepentant and, upon it sinking in that here she is in one piece with no additions or subtractions to her person, more than a little smug. ]

I didn't say anything to him. [ her expression is perfectly innocent, even sweet. too sweet. ] I was making conversation. If he chose to take it personally…that says more about him, doesn't it?

[ she tips her head at him with a sunny smile, hugging her sketchbook to her. she breezes past nico to the shade underneath a tree. finding a spot among the roots, she takes a seat.

that morning, mal swapped studded leather for black mesh and green sleeves. the contrast between the colors makes the purple of her hair darker and her fair skin fairer. she balances the sketchbook on her lap with a practiced ease. its cover has been spray painted until its original color was lost. ]