𝐎𝐍𝐄
📍 Chicago, Illinois
June 5th, 2015
The backyard was transformed into a zoo themed birthday party. Animal-themed decorations are hung from trees and fences, creating a whimsical atmosphere. From playful monkeys swinging on branches to majestic lions prowling through the grass.
Bouncy castles, designed to resemble different animal habitats, with one shaped like a towering giraffe, another like a playful elephant, and even one resembling a tropical rainforest. The castles were adorned with vibrant colors, animal prints, and inflatable palm trees.
Children's laughter fills the air as they jump and bounce. The sound of Kidz Bop 2014 fills the air, catchy pop hits like 'Happy' and 'Roar' played in the background. The tables are adorned with animal-themed tablecloths and centerpieces, and the party favors are mini safari explorer kits, complete with binoculars and animal masks. The air is filled with the aroma of delicious snacks, including popcorn, cotton candy, and animal-shaped cookies.
Nine year old Mia and now ten years Haylee, found themselves sitting alone in an unoccupied bouncy castle while everyone else was busy getting their faces painted, dancing, or bouncing in the other castle.
"Happy Birthday!" Mia exclaimed, flashing her brightest smile, her wild curly Afro hair sat perfectly on her face.
“Thank youu" Haylee replied, returning the smile and revealing her missing front teeth.
"I made this for you" Mia stated, handing Haylee a handmade bracelet with their initials, H&M, as charms. Haylee's brown eyes widened with excitement before she squealed, "It's so cute, I love it!" She couldn't resist and planted a sweet kiss on Mia's cheek.
"You're welcomed" Mia blushed, If her brown skin was fair like Haylee's, she'd turn red as a tomato.
Just then, they heard Haylee's mother's concerned voice calling out, "Hayleee!" She repeated her daughter's name with growing worry. Finally, she peeked her head into the bouncy house, her eyes scanning the surroundings, her expression turning disapproving as she noticed Mia sitting next to her daughter.
"Haylee, what are you doing in there alone with that girl?" Helen asked, her tone laced with judgment.
"We were just talking," Haylee explained, innocently.
"Come here," Helen demanded, her grip firm as she aggressively pulled Haylee out of the bouncy castle.
"What did I tell you about talking to that girl!?" Helen asked once Haylee was out.
"But why?" Haylee asked while her mom dragged into the house from backyard door. "You know what they say about her?" "She's a lesbian." Helen said replying to her own question.
"So?" Haylee asked, her voice filled with genuine curiosity. She couldn't understand why her mother wouldn't let her talk to Mia. "I like Mia," Haylee added, her words spoken with sincerity.
"You're only ten years old, you don't have any idea what you're talking about," Helen exclaimed.
"You have no idea what you're talking about!" Haylee retorted as she tried tugging away from her mother's grip.
"Go to your room and don't come out till you've calmed down." Helen ordered.
"But it's my Birthday!" Haylee reminded her mother.
"Haylee," Helen called firmly, indicating the finality of her decision.
"That's why I never told you." She cried as she ran upstairs to her room.
Little did Mia know that would be the last time her eyes would ever lay on Haylee's.
A few days later, Haylee and her parents mysteriously vanished from the city, leaving no trace behind. It was as if they had disappeared from the face of the earth, leaving everyone puzzled and curious about their sudden departure. No one really knew where they had gone or why they had to leave so abruptly.
On that fateful day, authorities arrived and arrested Mia's father, leaving her and her mom alone. The shock of seeing her husband being taken away falsely, caused her mother to have a heart attack. Unfortunately, the heart attack had lasting effects on the woman. It led to other heart issues, and they couldn't afford a transplant to improve her condition. Mia's mom struggled with her health. With Mia mom's health deteriorating, it fell upon young Mia to find a way to provide for them both. At just ten years old, she took on the challenge of hustling to ensure her mother had enough to eat and make ends meet.
Tragically, four years later, Mia's mother and father had passed away on the same day. Eliza heart couldn't bear the weight of her husband's death any longer, they killed him in prison that very morning. Ever since December 30th, 2019, it's been Mia against the world.
May 4th, 2030
The Oblivion
As Mia, walked through her establishment, she gracefully glides through the dimly lit space. The club is enveloped in an enchanting ambiance, with the seductive red lights casting a sultry glow over the entire place. Mia's eyes sweep across the club, taking in every detail.
The black furniture, carefully chosen to exude elegance and sophistication, provides a striking contrast against the red backdrop. Plush black leather chairs and cozy couches are strategically placed throughout the club, offering luxurious seating options for the patrons to relax and indulge in the captivating performances.
As Mia made her way through the club, she was greeted by the familiar faces of regular clients. With a warm smile and a nod of recognition, she acknowledges their presence, making them feel valued and appreciated. The air is filled with laughter, conversation, and music, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere.
The stage, bathed in the captivating red glow, becomes the focal point of the club. Dancers showcase their artistry, captivating the audience with their mesmerizing moves and enticing performances. The energy in the room is palpable, as patrons cheer and applaud, fully immersed in the captivating world Mia has created.
Suddenly, Mia felt a tap on her shoulder. She turned around, and saw Leah, also known as Lola the stripper.
“Hey" Mia smiled.
"Heyy, I'll be there in ten." Leah said, returning the smile.
"I'll be waiting." Mia smirked before making her way to her office.
Just as Mia is about to reach her destination, she hears someone call her name. She turned around to see none other than Sean, an annoying regular patron who shows up every Wednesday and Saturday. Mia's gut instinct tells her that something about his energy is off and creepy.
Mia's dislike for Sean is no secret, she has been patiently waiting for him to make a wrong move, just so she can banish him from the club forever.
"Sean." Mia said clearly annoyed. "Can I help you?" She questioned.
"Tonight I'm in the mood for you know..." He trailed off but Mia knew exactly what he meant and she mentally mugged the man.
"There's a lot of woman, everywhere." Mia stated.
"I know but I was feeling Lola." He explained.
"Lola?" Mia repeated furrowing her eyebrows.
"There's a rumor going around claiming she's yours." Sean explained.
"She's not." Mia corrected.
"Then let me hit" he said immediately after.
"Hit?" Mia repeated, baffled by his choice of words.
"You know what I mean." He chuckled.
"She's a dancer not a prostitute" Mia stated, firmly.
"I came to ask you if I can?" Sean said, his eyes searching Mia's face. Mia's eyes furrowed as she pondered his request. "It's not my decision, I don't own her," Mia made it clear. Mia glanced around, searching for Lola. When their eyes met, she gestured for Lola to come over, and Lola obliged.
"Yes" She smiled.
"You're a grown man talk to her." Mia said.
"Let me know if he does anything inappropriate" Mia whispered before she walked the leaving the two.
______
Mia sat in her cozy office, surrounded by stacks of paperwork, trying to focus on her tasks at hand. As she diligently worked, she took occasional sips from her glass of Patròn.
Suddenly, the door swung open, and Lola stormed into the room, her frustration evident in her body language and tone.
"You were trynna set me up with your friend?" Leah questioned, her voice laced with irritation.
Mia looked up from her screen, her eyebrows furrowing in confusion. "Friend? I don't have any of that." Mia replied, before putting her gaze back on the screen of her sleek iMac.
Leah sighed, her annoyance palpable. "Why did you make me talk to him if you knew I'd say no?" she asked. "I don't like men, Mia," Leah added, noticing the puzzled expression on Mia's face.
"That, I didn't know," Mia admitted, as she took another sip of her drink. Her gaze shifted from the screen to Leah, who stood in front of her desk.
"Why do you think I fuck with you?" Lola asked, her tone slightly defensive.
"Thought you were just bored or something."Mia shrugged.
"Bored?" Leah repeated. "I don't just fuck anyone. I actually have feelings for you," Leah confessed.
Mia's eyebrows raised in surprise "Feelings?" she questioned.
Leah nodded, her eyes searching Mia's for a reaction. Mia let out a sigh before she finally spoke "We agreed on not catching feelings,"
"I've actually felt this way even before we started this 'only sex' thing." Leah admitted. "We've known each other since we were kids, Mia," she reminded her.
Mia's expression softened, her eyes leaving Leah's. "If I had known, I wouldn't have gotten involved with you,"
"Am I not attractive?" Leah questioned
"You wouldn't be in my office right now if you weren't," Mia reassured her
"Then What? What does she have that I don't" Leah questioned. "You haven't seen her in years, Mia." She added, emphasizing the time that had passed
"Leah—"
"—Haylee moved on," Leah said, cutting Mia off. "It's on the news. Haylee is getting married to the mayor's son, Charles." Leah revealed. However, Mia remained silent, her expression a mix of confusion and surprise.
"You seriously didn't know?" Leah asked, a hint of disbelief in her voice. She reached for her phone and handed it to Mia, urging her to see the evidence for herself.
"Scroll down, and you'll see a picture of them," Leah instructed. Mia followed her instructions. Mia's eyes fixated on the picture, her heart sinking as she scrolled down to see the photo of Haylee and Charles, their hands intertwined. Even after fifteen years apart, Mia recognized her instantly.
A heavy silence hung in the air as Mia clenched her jaw, her mind racing with a whirlwind of thoughts. She handed the phone back to Leah, and slowly rose from her seat. She made her way to the drink counter, pouring herself another glass.
"Mia, y'all were like ten, in fact you were like what nine." Leah reminded her following behind her. "I know how much she meant to you, and I understand that seeing her again meant everything to you but maybe it's time you move on" Leah continued. Mia still had her back turned, lost in her thoughts, Leah approached her and placed her hands gently on Mia's back before caressing it.
"You deserve to be happy, with someone that'll love you as much as you love them. I could be that person if you let me." Leah finally finished, Mia took a deep breath, her heart pounding in her chest. She quickly downed her glass of liquor and the emotions that began to resurface, the liquid burning her throat.
Slowly, she turned to face Leah, their eyes locked in an intense gaze. Leah's dull brown eyes met Mia's, their faces so close that Mia could feel the warmth of Leah's breath against her skin. Mia didn't say a word, but her eyes spoke volumes, reflecting her conflicted emotions. In that moment, Leah closed the remaining distance between them, her lips softly pressing against Mia's.
Mia, fueled by the effects of the alcohol she had been indulging in all night, responded to the kiss with a growing fervor. As their lips moved in sync, Mia's hand found its way to Leah's neck, her touch gentle yet possessive. With a subtle parting of lips, Leah invited Mia to deepen the kiss, dominating it.
9:04 am
Legal Maverick
As Mia walked into the establishment, the entrance boasted a towering glass door, adorned with the firm's name in bold, gold lettering. The sunlight streamed through the transparent surface, casting a warm glow on the polished marble floors of the spacious lobby. Mia couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as she took in the modern furnishings and elegant decor.
The walls were adorned with framed diplomas and prestigious awards, showcasing the firm's accomplishments. Each accolade seemed to tell a story of success and hard work.
The reception desk stood at the center of the lobby, its sleek design complementing the overall aesthetic. Behind it sat a friendly and professional receptionist, Mia approached the desk with a mix of excitement and nervousness.
"Good morning can I speak to Haylee Standfield" Mia asked the receptionist. The receptionist, with her charming smile replied, "Name, please."
"Michaela Jackson" Mia responded. The receptionist's fingers danced across the keyboard as she typed Mia's name into the computer.
"Do you have a meeting with Ms. Standfield?" the receptionist inquired, her tone polite and professional "No but I'd like to see her." Mia replied.
"I'm a childhood friend, haven't seen her in fifteen years." Mia explained and the woman nodded understandingly.
"I'll give her a call to see if she can receive a visitor," she stated, picking up the phone and dialing Haylee's extension as Mia anxiously waited.
"Mrs. Stansfield, there's someone here who claims to be a childhood friend and would like to see you," the receptionist informed Haylee.
Haylee's heart skipped a beat as she wondered if it could be who she thought it was. "Who is it?" she questioned, her curiosity piqued. "Michaela Jackson" the receptionist replied. Haylee's eyes widened as she muttered, "Mia?"
The line fell silent for a moment before Haylee instructed. "Let her in, in 5 minutes," before hanging up.
The receptionist turned to Mia, a warm smile on her face. "Take a seat, she'll be ready for you in a few," she said, gesturing towards the comfortable seating area in the lobby. Mia followed her instructions and settled into a chair.
Mia hadn't felt so anxious in so long, she fidgeted her fingers as she waited. Many thoughts ran through my mind, like what if she doesn't remember me? Did I really waste fifteen years of my life? Out of all people...Charles? He was mean and petty, literally the male version of Regina George. She could've sworn he would come out as gay eventually, the way he was obsessed with Mia in the fourth to sixth grade, Mia who's been a tomboy her whole life.
"Ms Jackson, Ms Standfield's ready for you now." Mia heard the receptionist say snapping her out my thoughts.
"Thank you" Mia smiled before getting off her seat and followed the receptionist to Haylee's office.
Mia remembered when Haylee talked about how much she wanted to be a lawyer and have her own firm. She was glad at least one of their dreams came true.
As Mia stepped into the office, Haylee immediately stood up from her desk. Her gaze, met Mia's dark brown eyes.
In that moment, time seemed to stand still as they locked eyes, just like they did fifteen years ago. Haylee's almond-shaped eyes still sparkle with that same enchanting glimmer that always drew Mia in, her lips, soft and inviting. Mia couldn't help but notice how Haylee's flawless complexion and graceful figure have only become more captivating over the years. The light-pink pantsuit she wore hugged her figure perfectly, accentuating her every curve. While her silky chestnut hair cascades down her shoulders with elegance.
Silence reigned in the room as both of them just started each other eyes. Hailee stared into Mia dark brow eye and Mia into her hazel eyes.
Fifteen years later and Mia still looked the same, Haylee thought. Her long brown curly hair in Afro curls, framed her face perfectly. And those pretty pink plump lips, complemented by her thick arched eyebrows and long eyelashes, added an extra touch of allure to her dark brown eyes. The sunlight streaming through the window illuminated Haylee's office, casting a warm glow on Mia's flawless brown skin, showcasing her melanin. Mia's black tux, perfectly tailored to her athletic body.
Haylee couldn't take her eyes off Mia, and it was clear that the feeling was mutual.
"Mia" Haylee finally spoke breaking the heavy silence that hung between them.
"Haylee" Mia returned, hearing Mia's now matured voice sent shivers through Haylee's spine. She took a deep breath trying to regain her composure and asked "What are you doing here?"
"After fifteen years, that's the first thing you say to me?" Mia questioned, a hint of hurt in her voice.
"Mia, I really don't wanna have this conversation, right now." Haylee's voice trembled as she replied.
"Well, I do," Mia said calmly. "Are you really getting married to Charles?" Mia's question hung in the air, the weight of their past weighing heavily on both of them.
"You came here to ask me this?" Haylee questioned. "Yes because I needed to know if I really wasted 15 years of my life, waiting, looking for you." Mia replied.
"I didn't asked you to do that." Haylee reminded her. "We were kids, I hardly remember anything" Haylee added and Mia chuckled in disbelief. "I thought you were over it because I am." Haylee continued.
"Right." Mia nodded in agreement. "All I needed to hear" Mia added, before Haylee could say anything else Mia walked out the office.
Once she got into her car, she fastened her seat belt before putting her hands on her wheels. She took a deep breath holding back emotions.
"Life goes on, Mia." Mia said to herself. "Can't wait till it's over." She muttered before started the ignition and drove off.
_______
The Oblivion
After her encounter with Haylee earlier, Mia found herself back at the club, seeking solace in its familiar walls. Determined to distract herself from the embarrassment she had experienced, she immersed herself in her work, spending the entire day there.
As Mia focused on her tasks, trying to keep her mind off the awkwardness, she couldn't help but reflect on the 15 long years filled with delusions. The weight of those years weighed heavily on her heart, adding to her desire to bury herself in her work.
Suddenly, a knock on the door interrupted Mia's work. It was Leah, reaching out, "Mia?" she called, hoping for a response.
"Yes?" Mia responded.
"Can I come in?" Leah questioned.
"I'm not in the mood for this and I need get some work done" Mia responded.
"I just wanted to know if you're okay, you been in here all day." Leah explained.
"I'm great." Mia reassured her.
"Okay." Leah said, realizing that Mia needed space, she knew to not try to push her, to talk. No matter how much she persisted she wouldn't get Mia to open up, ever.
With that, Leah walked away from the door, making her way to the stage where other dancers were preparing for the night's performances. Some were practicing their pole routines, while others sat and watched.
"Come on, Aurora ass up" Cassy instructed. "She alright?" She then asked Leah.
"I don't know, you know she's not the type to talk." Leah replied. "I'm worried" she added.
"You and Mia got sum?" Quinny questioned.
"Why you asking?" Leah questioned.
"Only a blind bitch wouldn't see the tension between you two" Tina chimed chuckling.
"Always staring at each other, the way she watches your every performance" Tiana added.
Leah confidently chimed in, "I mean, have you seen me?" With a self-assured smirk, she gracefully rose from her seat and began to spin, showcasing her captivating hourglass figure. The black mini dress clung to her curves in all the right places, accentuating her C cup breasts. Her natural light brown hair was styled in a sleek low ponytail, with her edges perfectly laid. In Cassy's words, she was literally Latto's Doppelgänger.
"You might be fucking her but she only eyes for one person and we all know who that is." Tina reminded them.
"That white bitch urghh." Cassy said rolling her eyes.
"Hey" Quinny interjected, reminding her she was also white.
"I'm sorry boo but it's funny how she rather a white girl built like a box then Leah." Cassy defended.
"I don't know bout build like a box, that white got some ass on her not gon' lie" Tiana interjected as she scrolled through her phone.
"She's more than delusional for being obsessed with someone for fifteen years" Tina said.
"It's about feelings you know something call love, she actually loves her and I respect that so I just let her fuck me for now. Maybe one day she'll give up on her." Leah sighed before she sat back down.
"Maybe today's the day." Tiana chimed in.
"What do you mean?" Leah and Cassy questioned in unison.
"I heard...that today Mia went to Haylee's cabinet they talked and apparently the feelings aren't mutual." Tiana explained.
"That bitch is stupid, Mia's fine as fuck and rich." Tina scoffed.
"Rightt" Quinny added.
"She also has a great smile, great personality, funny, sweet, generous. Haylee has no clue what she's loosing." Leah listed, as they all exchanged glances, a realization slowly dawned upon them - Leah was actually in love with the woman.
"You like, like Mia don't you?" Aurora smirked, teasingly.
"It's pretty obvious." Cassy chimed.
"Explains why she's been like this all day she doesn't even wanna eat." mused, disregarding her friends' observations.
"I've never seen that girl eat if you think about it" Cassy pointed out.
"That's harsh." Tina said.
"I'll be back." Leah stated as she got up and picked up her purse on the glass table.
"Where you going?" Cassy questioned. "We have to practice before tonight"
"I'll be back," Leah declared, rising from her seat and grabbing her purse from the glass table.
"Where are you going?" Cassy questioned, concerned. "We need to practice before tonight."
"I'll be back before the club opens" Leah reassured them before walking away, leaving her friends to ponder her sudden departure.
7:44 pm
At Haylee's apartment
Haylee's doorbell rang eagerly, interrupting the quiet of her apartment. Curiosity piqued, she approached the door and cautiously peered through the peephole, revealing a familiar face she hadn't seen in fifteen long years.
"Leah, is that really you?" Haylee questioned, a mix of surprise and excitement in her voice.
"Yes" Leah replied simply, confirming her identity.
"I need to talk to you," Leah stated, her tone serious and determined.
"Of course, come in," Haylee said, stepping aside to let Leah into the apartment. "Can I get you a drink or something?"
"No, I want to make this quick," Leah responded, her urgency evident in her words.
"I came here to talk to you about Mia," Leah explained, her voice filled with defiance.
"Oh..." Haylee responded, her voice trailing off.
"You really hurt her feelings, you know? She won't admit it, but you did," Leah continued, her words laced with disappointment. "Imagine someone loving you for fifteen years, that's incredibly rare. And it may feel like it was nothing you but it meant everything to her. After everything she's been through because of you, she really didn't deserve that."
Confused, Haylee asked, "What do you mean by 'all she's been through because of me'?"
Leah's voice turned somber as she replied, "Rumors say your mom was the one who called the cops on her dad. It's funny how as soon as you both left, the cops showed up. Helen knew she was risking a lot by staying after calling the cops on Mr. Jackson. He was a great man, and everyone loved him."
Haylee's voice trembled as she asked, "Was...?"
"Yes, both of her parents died on the same day," Leah responded, her voice filled with sadness. "The heart that loves you, you really don't deserve it. I'd do anything for her to love me the way she loves you, but she only has eyes for you, and I have no idea why. I'm here to let you know that you broke her heart, and not just a little, Haylee."
"I didn't mean to. I really thought she was over it," Haylee stated, her voice filled with remorse.
"Well, she wasn't, Haylee," Leah said, her tone firm. She walked away, opened the door, and left, slamming it behind her.
________
The oblivion
Mia finally stepped out of her office, heading to the dress room. Where the dancers were getting ready for tonight's show, in search for Leah. She gently knocked on the door, waiting for permission to enter. When she heard one of the girls voice inviting her in, she opened the door and stepped inside..
The room was a whirlwind of activity, with some of the girls applying the final touches to their makeup in front of their vanity mirrors. Others were slipping into their platform stilettos, a few of them engrossed in their phones.
"Oh, Mia!" Cassy's voice called out, drawing Mia's attention.
"Hey," Mia greeted with a warm smile, her eyes scanning the room once more in search of Leah. "Where's Leah?" she questioned
"Don't know." Cassy shrugged, her focus shifting back to her own reflection. "She told us she was leaving but not where she's going."Cassy's words held a tinge of curiosity, as if she too wondered about Leah's whereabouts.
Just as the tension in the room was starting to build, Leah's voice broke through the silence, "I'm right here," she said, walking in with a confident stride. Her presence instantly commanded attention, drawing everyone's gaze towards her.
"Well, just wanted to let you know that the club will be closed tomorrow," Mia stated. "Your day off."
"Okay," they all said in unison, their voices blending together in a chorus of acceptance. The dancers exchanged glances, their eyes filled with curiosity about the sudden closure.
"Leah, can I talk to you for a sec?" Mia asked.
"Okayy" Leah responded. Without uttering another word, Mia reached out and gently took Leah's hands into hers, their fingers intertwining before walking out the dressing room.
As they made their way to Mia's office, Leah's heart quickened its pace. She was both nervous and eager to know what Mia wanted to talk about.
"So what you wanted to talk about?" Leah asked as soon they entered her office.
Mia hesitated for a moment, her voice betraying a hint of nervousness. "I, uh... wanted to know if you'd like to go on a date with me tomorrow night," she finally mustered reluctantly. She's never ask anyone out before, and she wasn't good with words nor with expressing her feelings.
Leah couldn't help but notice the shift in Mia's usual demeanor. Usually she was sweet and calm yet dominant and confident. Shy and nervous was unusual for Leah, she thought it was cute to see her like that.
"Really?" Leah asked.
"Yes." Mia reassured her.
Leah couldn't help but have a flicker of doubt. "Are you sure about this?" she asked, wanting to make sure that Mia wasn't rushing into things too quickly.
Mia's response was resolute. "Hundred percent," she affirmed. "I thought about what you said yesterday. I wanna get to know you more other than sex." Mia explained.
Leah simply nodded, trying to contain her excitement. "Okay," she replied.
Mia noticed Leah's subdued reaction and couldn't help but remark, "You don't seem too happy or anything. Is something wrong? You could say no if you don't—"
"—I do," Leah reassured her, cutting her off gently. "I just wasn't expecting it." Leah took a moment to gather her thoughts before continuing, "What time?"
"I'll pick you up at seven pm?" Mia said sounding more like she questioned.
Leah's face lit up with a smile. "Great," she replied enthusiastically.
"Well, I gotta go get dressed before it starts. See you later," Leah said
"Later," she heard Mia say before she walked out of the office and went back to dressing room. As she walked into the room, all eyes were on Leah, eagerly waiting for her to speak.
"So, what did she say?" Cassy asked, curiosity lacing her voice.
Leah couldn't contain her excitement as she replied, "She asked me out, like on a date."
"Shit, for real?" Tina exclaimed, clearly surprised by the news.
"Yess!" Leah squealed with delight, and Cassy joined in, sharing her excitement. "I can't believe it, feels like I'm sixteen all over again."
"I'm so happy for you, girl," Tiana chimed in, her voice filled with genuine joy.
"I don't even think I have a dress for the occasion." Leah admitted.
"Sounds like we're going shopping tomorrow." Quinny chimed in.
10:46 pm
Haylee's apartment
Veronica's heart ached as she hurried to Haylee's apartment, driven by the urgency in her best friend's tearful phone call. She used her spare key to unlock the door, stepping into the familiar space. The sight that greeted her tugged at her heartstrings. Haylee, overcome with sadness, lay sprawled on the couch, her tear-stained face buried in a tub of melting ice cream.
"What happened?" Veronica asked gently as she sat beside her.
"I saw her today" Haylee replied.
Veronica's eyebrows furrowed in confusion. "Who?" she questioned.
Haylee hesitated for a moment before gathering the courage to speak "There's something I've never told you before, but today I need to talk about it," she confessed, her voice filled with vulnerability.
Taking a deep breath, Haylee continued, her voice shaky yet determined. "Before I moved to Boston, I had this kind of relationship with another girl—"
Veronica's jaw dropped, her eyes widening in shock. "You liked girls?" she interjected, unable to hide her astonishment.
"I still do," Haylee cried, her voice laced with pain and regret. "I can't believe I still have these feelings for her. It seems absurd, considering we were just kids back then." Her eyes glistened with unshed tears as she continued, "I saw her for the first time in 15 years, Vee. The moment I laid eyes on her, it was like a flood of emotions came rushing back. I knew deep down that this was inevitable, but I wasn't prepared."
Haylee's voice trembled as she revealed her inner turmoil. "I couldn't bring myself to tell her the truth, that I'm being forced to marry Charles because of a deal my father made. I didn't want to involve her in this mess. So, I had no choice but to hurt her, to push her away so she would leave me for good. But it hurt me too, Vee. It hurt me more than I could have ever imagined."
Veronica pulled Haylee close, allowing her to cry on her chest. "It's okay, Haylee. Let it all out."
________
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