Archive of Our Own ^beta

Life in the asphalt jungle wasn't all that glorious. But, mainly since the 'jungle' was made of asphalt, plenty of children would've instead been in an authentic rainforest. Complete with an abundance of lush exotic flora, graceful jaguars, multicolored parrots, and ancient temples.

However, going to that type of jungle wasn't possible. At least for Vixen David, who envied her big sister, Angela, for taking a class trip to Guatemala for Spring Break. Only fourteen or older were permitted on the school's vacation. There remained an eight-year age gap between the sisters. Consequently, while Angela was fifteen, her younger sister was only seven.

Angela had promised to record the entire trip on her smartphone. However, it just wasn't the same as being there. The nearest Vixen got to a 'jungle' was the rooftop garden of her building. Her oldest sister Toni had chosen to keep Vixen company for Spring Break. Therefore Toni was babysitting her youngest sister while their parents were working.

Currently, Toni was lounging in one of the comfortable white wicker armchairs. Despite it being four years since that ill-fated car crash? She still required weekly physical therapy sessions. Plus, she needed to take extended breaks due to her injuries.

Neither of Toni's younger sisters let anyone badmouth her due to her disabilities. They'd genuinely become sisters long before the Davids officially adopted her. The stunning twenty-year-old turned off her music to check on her youngest sister. "Vixen?" as she gazed throughout the heavenly garden.

"Yes?" Vixen called from behind the artificial waterfall. "Don't wander too far out of sight," her sister informed her, to which Vixen laughed. "Toni, we're on a rooftop! I can't exactly go far!"

"Don't get sassy with me, Vixen," warned her elder sister, "You still need to be aware of your surroundings. Also, please don't get dirty before your friends arrive."

"I know, Toni," Vixen expressed in exasperation. "I've to stay clean. However, Alex and Tabby won't be here for another hour," she reminded her, to which Toni smiled.

"How about a rummy game while we wait?" her sister asked. Of course, neither sister had known how to play before Toni taught them. But on the other hand, Angela and Vixen learned plenty of cool things from Toni.

Vixen's copper-colored eyes lit up at the suggestion. "Sure! I'd love to play a game!" as she flew over to the picnic table to play. They'd always played with a Disney Princess-themed deck whenever they played.

Quickly the cards were shuffled and then dealt out. Vixen got to go first. They're still playing by the time her two best friends arrive. Everyone knew who Alex F Xanatos was. However, Tabby wasn't nearly as well known. Her parents were prosperous stockbrokers and neurosurgeons. Consequently, they're pretty well off. Tabby had medium-length strawberry blond hair with big turquoise eyes.

She'd slung over her shoulder a shiny fuchsia sports bag. Her soccer cleats and ballet slippers were peeking out. Taking a deep breath, she deposited the bag next to the doorway. "Hi, Vixen! How are you today?" Tabby asked as the pair joined the sisters.

"I'm doing alright. How about you guys?"

"Well, I just came from my martial arts lesson. I'm progressing quite well. Mom is sure satisfied with that," Alex replied, fixing his short ponytail.

"I've just spent the last two days in non-stop training for soccer and ballet. We've got a recital coming up in a few weeks. Plus, the playoffs are coming up as well. So sorry that's cut into our playing time," Tabby apologized while sipping the juice Toni made for them.

"I'm sure all of you'll do your best to thrive in your chosen activities," Toni assured them while dealing a new hand so they could join the game.

The three children enjoyed playing cards, sketching butterflies, and watching the sunset. Vixen still wished she could've gone on an adventure in the jungle. However, her oldest sister reminded her every day is an adventure. Hence try to make the most of each day, and you'll find the experience waiting for you.