Love story

Chapter 7

The night at Camila's left Lauren with a warmth she couldn't quite shake off. It lingered with her all the way home, well into the early hours of the morning as she lay in bed, staring at the ceiling, replaying the evening in her mind. It wasn't just the easy conversation, the laughter, or even the delicious mac and cheese. It was how natural it had all felt. How right.

She thought about the way Camila had looked at her when they stood in the kitchen, their shared smiles, the soft understanding between them. There had been something in the air, something unspoken but palpable. A possibility.

Lauren sighed, rolling over in bed. She wasn't one to rush into things. Her life had been too busy, too focused on her career to allow for much else. Relationships always seemed like a distraction—something she couldn't fully commit to. But Camila... she was different. There was no pressure, no need to impress. She made Lauren feel grounded, seen in a way she hadn't felt in a long time.

But still, doubts lingered. Was it just the closeness of the moment? The warmth of a good meal and good company? Or was there something real developing between them? Lauren didn't know the answer yet, but one thing was clear—she wanted to see more of Camila. She wanted to explore this connection, wherever it might lead.

The next morning, Lauren found herself texting Camila without overthinking it.

Lauren: Hey, I had a really great time last night. Thank you for inviting me over. How's Harry doing? Recovering from his cookie feast?

She hit send before she could second-guess herself. Almost immediately, her phone buzzed.

Camila: It was so nice having you! Harry loved the cookies (and maybe had a couple more after you left 🙈). He's asking when you'll come by again!

Lauren grinned, her heart fluttering at the thought of Harry's excitement and the ease in Camila's words. Before she could reply, another message popped up.

Camila: Also, if you're free, maybe we could meet for coffee sometime? Just the two of us?

Lauren's breath caught slightly. Just the two of us. The invitation was clear, and her pulse quickened. She hadn't misread the moment after all.

Her fingers hovered over the screen for a second before she replied.

Lauren: I'd love that. How about tomorrow?

As she hit send, she felt a wave of anticipation wash over her. Whatever was happening between them, it was real. And now, it was beginning to take shape.