To Jupiter and back

Chapter 5

After settling the bill for their Takis, the pair ventured outside into the open air. Jupiter turned to Billie with a curious expression. "Do you happen to have a car?" she inquired.

Billie chuckled in response. "Well, in general, yes, but not at the moment. I opted for an Uber instead," she explained, causing Jupiter's face to light up with amusement.

"Ah, I see. Well then, come with me," Jupiter beckoned, making her way towards her sleek motorcycle. With a thoughtful gesture, she retrieved a helmet for Billie to wear, ensuring her safety during the ride.

Seated together on the motorcycle, their positioning mirrored that fateful night six months prior. Billie's arms instinctively wrapped around Jupiter's firm waist, holding on tightly. As the engine roared to life, Billie couldn't help but voice her concern. "Jupiter, please slow down! I swear to God!" she shouted over the wind.

"Apologies, got carried away there," Jupiter admitted, acknowledging that she had been using the ride as a means to release the tension brought on by meeting her family.

Eventually, they arrived at an apartment complex, modest yet far from shabby. Dismounting from the motorcycle, Billie glanced around, her curiosity piqued. "Where are we?" she inquired.

Jupiter turned towards her, a gentle smile playing on her lips. "We've arrived at my humble abode," she answered.

"Oh," Billie responded, her voice tinged with surprise.

"If you prefer to go back home, I can drop you off. I just wasn't sure..." Jupiter's words trailed off as she attempted to accommodate Billie's comfort.

"No, it's fine. I've always had a fondness for sleeping in other people's beds," Billie smirked, teasingly.

Unlocking the front door, Jupiter invited both girls into her cozy living space. Though not expansive, the apartment exuded warmth and character. A small entrance greeted them with a well-organized closet and a neatly arranged shoe rack. The area flowed seamlessly into an open living-kitchen room, emanating a sense of inviting comfort. Adjacent to it, two doors hinted at a bedroom and a bathroom, offering privacy and sanctuary.

"Hmm, one might expect the author of a best-selling book to reside in a larger apartment," Billie commented playfully, her eyes scanning the surroundings.

Jupiter's response was swift and genuine. "I prefer to keep things uncluttered. It allows me to focus and find peace within these walls," she explained, her words resonating with a sense of wisdom.

Without hesitation, Jupiter reached out and took hold of Billie's hand, leading her towards an unknown destination within the apartment. The touch sent a flurry of butterflies fluttering in the depths of Billie's belly.

They entered Jupiter's bedroom and approached a window. With an unexpected burst of energy, Jupiter opened the window wide and gracefully crawled through, landing on the fire escape outside. Billie, bewildered yet intrigued, followed suit, her curiosity leading the way.

Perched on the sturdy black metal structure, Billie couldn't help but feel a slight apprehension that it might give way at any moment. Yet, the view from the fire escape was breathtaking, the city lights shimmering like stars.

Jupiter retrieved a pack of Takis and deftly opened it, extending the vibrant snacks to Billie, a gesture of camaraderie and shared indulgence.

"Shall we engage in a game of 5 questions?" Billie proposed, her voice filled with a playful tone.

"Shouldn't it be 20 questions?" Jupiter pondered aloud.

Billie let out a tired sigh. "Yeah, but I'm too exhausted to come up with 20 questions," she confessed, eliciting a warm smile from Jupiter.