While you were Sleeping

38. We are Family

Juliana practically skipped into work the next morning.

After a wonderful day cuddling, kissing, and cooking with her girlfriend, Juliana couldn't shake the feeling that she'd been given a glimpse into their future. Being with Valentina was easy. She was sweet, honest, and too God damn cute. She had even sneaked out of their room this morning to bring Juliana breakfast in bed.

Although laughing at all the 'hard work' Valentina had put in to preparing their cereal with cold milk, Juliana had been touched by her thoughtfulness.

They had laid in bed chatting for most of the morning until Juliana had to get herself ready for work.

Now, as she entered the café, she wished she could've stayed in bed.

"Look who's back!" Karla greeted her happily. "And Barbs, she even looks like she got some sleep!"

Juliana rolled her eyes. "I was off one day!" She stated, rounding the counter to enter the office.

"Yes, but we all had to cover for you, which means you need to spill!"

Juliana sighed as she approached her locker. "I hadn't slept! I was tired. Javier gave me the day off. The end."

"Eh... no! My turn! You were away for the weekend and were tired on Monday. But something must have happened after that because you arrived to work on Tuesday like a zombie!" Karla's eyebrows had crept higher and were now hidden behind her fringe. "And that is why Javier, being the sweetest guy in the world, gave you the day off! Okay, your turn!"

Juliana sighed again as she turned to face her friend. Karla was standing in the doorway with her arms folded, waiting.

"There's nothing more to say," Juliana shrugged.

"Oh really? So why did Valentina show up here looking tired and wearing your clothes?"

Juliana frowned. How did Karla know they weren't Valentina's clothes? "She stayed over."

"Can't get enough of you now?" She grinned earning another eye roll. "I'm only asking because she looked tired too, and not in a 'I had a lot of fun last night' kind of way. What is going on?"

"Nothing, Karla." Juliana turned back to her locker to retrieve her apron. She had no intention of sharing any of this with anyone, not even her own mother. "We had a busy weekend and stayed up too late. But we're both feeling much better today. Thanks for asking."

Karla's voice softened as she spoke again. "I meant what I said, Juli."

Confused, Juliana turned to face her friend. Karla was now standing with her hands on her hips in the middle of the small office.

"If she hurt you, I will kick her ass!" Her tone making it clear she was serious.

Juliana couldn't stop the laugh that burst from her chest. Karla was a good friend. She was probably the closest to a best friend Juliana had ever had.

"I'm serious!" Karla huffed, stamping her foot to the ground.

"I know you are! And I love you for it, I really do! But you don't need to worry, Val and I are fine. No ass kicking required!"

"You're sure?" she asked, unconvinced.

"Very!"

"Fine! But the offer still stands."

"Thanks!" Juliana laughed as she pulled Karla into a side hug and led her back towards the door. "I'll let Val know, it should keep her on her best behaviour!"

* * * * *

For Valentina, the next few days went by in a blur.

Although Valentina missed her home and was still upset that her father hadn't tried to contact her, she was happy.