Toxic

Prologue

Isabella Clarke and Courtney Mackelroy, both glistening with the afterglow of a vigorous gym session, returned to their shared apartment in Sherman Oaks. The morning sun filtered through the blinds, casting a warm glow on the cozy living room.

They quickly freshened up and settled into their routine, preparing a light breakfast while wearing tiny shorts and tops that clung to their toned bodies.

Isabella, pouring herself a glass of orange juice, broke the comfortable silence. "What are your plans for today?"

Already munching on a piece of toast, Courtney rolled her eyes playfully. "I'm a first-year resident at St. Augustine's Hospital. I'll always be busy. What about you?"

Isabella shrugged, a smile playing on her lips. "I'm meeting with the producers, apparently they want some changes in the script... then after that, I think I'm free."

Courtney's eyes sparkled with mischief. "Good, because James asked me for your number, and I'm giving it to him."

Isabella's smile faltered slightly. "Um, I kind of remember I'm meeting someone."

Courtney's expression shifted to one of mild annoyance. "It's him, isn't it?"

Isabella looked down, avoiding Courtney's gaze, and took a sip of her juice.

Courtney sighed, standing up and walking over to her friend. "Three months, Izzy. You hardly know this guy. He comes, fucks, and leaves. I know you have some kink about being used, but how long is this going to go on? You don't have a one-night stand for three months."

Isabella's voice was low, still not meeting Courtney's eyes. "I like him. I want a relationship."

Courtney's frustration was evident in her voice. "And does he know that?"

Isabella's silence was answered enough. Courtney shook her head, her concern and love for her friend palpable. "Izzy, you deserve better. You deserve someone who sees how amazing you are and wants to be with you for more than just sex."

Isabella finally looked up; her eyes filled with uncertainty. "I know Court. It's just... complicated."

Courtney softened, wrapping an arm around Isabella's shoulders. "Life's always complicated, but that doesn't mean you should settle. Promise me you'll think about it?"

Isabella nodded slowly, leaning into her friend's comforting embrace. "I promise."

Courtney glanced at her phone, a smile tugging at her lips. "Speaking of relationships, I need to get ready to meet Ethan. We're grabbing coffee before our shift starts."

Courtney quickly disappeared into her room to get ready. A few minutes later, she emerged, dressed and looking refreshed despite the early hour. She grabbed her bag and headed toward the door.

"Bye, Izzy," she called out.

Isabella looked up from her laptop. "Babe, wait."

Courtney turned around; one eyebrow raised. "Yeah?"

Isabella fidgeted nervously. "Will you be at Ethan's tonight?"

Courtney's expression shifted to mild annoyance. "I wasn't planning to, but don't worry, I'll make myself scarce."

As Courtney stepped out, Isabella shouted, "Love you!" The door closed with a resounding slam.

A few seconds later, Isabella's phone chimed. It was a message from Courtney: "Love you too."

Isabella smiles.