It had been a while since Astoria had last seen Malachi but that was understandable and she didn't begrudge him for it. He had a family to take care of and she could only imagine how busy he must have been with them and with work combined. She had stopped by the gallery a few times but he hadn't been in so she was glad that they'd found some time to catch up. She was curious about how things had been going for him and how he was adjusting to life as a married man. It surprised her how easily some people settled down. She knew Malachi was a few years older than her but he was still young. It felt like a completely different world to her. Astoria could never imagine herself in that situation. Malachi seemed so grounded and that was part of the reason she enjoyed his company. And unlike Daphne, who also seemed to have her life together, he didn't feel the need to rub it in her face. It was a nice change of pace. Astoria loved her sister dearly but she had a distinct way of making her feel inadequate.
She pushed the thoughts of Daphne aside as she entered the shop. Malachi was already at a table but Astoria headed for the counter first and placed her order. Once she had her tea and scone she moved towards the table. "Hey," she greeted him warmly before took the seat across from him, carefully setting her things down. "What are you working on?" she asked curiously, gesturing towards the sketchpad while settling into her seat.