"Strings Between Us

enough is enough

It started with a blurry photo and a trashy headline on one of those gossip blogs that always twisted the truth. "Nina's Secret Cover-Up? Sources Say It's All a Ploy."

Renata had done it again.

Isadora was in the resort kitchen, pouring herself some orange juice when the alert came through her Sidekick. Her hands trembled as she read. It wasn't just about her anymore - Renata had crossed the line.

She stormed into the living room where the rest of her band sat. Nina looked up from under a blanket, pale but calm.

> "Isa... don't. It's not worth it," Nina whispered.

But Isadora's eyes were already set. Jaw clenched. Shoulders squared.

> "No. She doesn't get to do this anymore."

Renata was nearby - she'd snuck into town for a "press shoot" no one asked for. Isadora didn't even hesitate. Wearing low-rise jeans, a cropped hoodie, and her Docs, she marched into the building with the force of a storm.

She spotted Renata posing in front of a cheap backdrop, hair overly curled, trying to look famous.

> "Renata!" Isadora barked.

Renata froze mid-smirk.

> "Aw, did I strike a nerve? Poor Isadora - always trying to play the hero."

Isadora stepped forward, nose to nose with her now.

> "This ends now. You don't get to spread lies about Nina. She's fighting for her life, and you're too obsessed with clout to see how disgusting you're being."

Renata rolled her eyes. "Relax, it's just showbiz-"

> "No, it's not just showbiz when you make fun of cancer, you psycho Barbie."

Renata scoffed. "Jealousy's ugly on you."

Before anyone could blink, Isadora shoved her - not hard enough to hurt, but strong enough to make Renata stumble back a step in shock.

Security rushed in, but Isadora didn't flinch.

> "You stay away from me. Stay away from Nina. And keep our names out of your mouth or I swear you'll see what ugly really looks like."

The room was dead silent. Cameras flashed, but Isadora didn't care.

She turned, head held high, and walked out like the queen she was.

Back at the resort, Nina looked up nervously.

> "Did you... did you really go off on her?"

Isadora cracked a grin. "I told her if she messed with my family again, I'd go Avril Lavigne on her."

The band burst into laughter. Nina smiled - for real this time.

> "You're the best," she whispered.

> "Always," Isadora replied, pulling her into a hug. "No one messes with my people. Not ever again."

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