Calliope wrinkled their nose, but didn’t add anything, maybe because they needed to reflect on it, maybe because Darius was paying them.

Calliope laughed a little to themselves “I will survive” and with a metaphorical Gloria Gaynor starting to play in the background, they adjusted themselves to a more comfortable position, before starting to sip the wine, savouring the quality. It was booze alright and they could work with that.

Calliope kept smiling at the artist, while he shared more about his interests. Calliope turned to the painting “Like Madame Carringtòn.” They pointed out. Calliope nodded. It was a new beginning, no doubt.