Loving Again

5

The sun was just beginning to set as I pulled up to Jordan's studio, "Glow Up by Jordan." The sleek, minimalist sign outside belied the artistic brilliance I knew was within. Jordan had called me earlier, excited about a new project—she wanted to completely redesign her studio space, and she made it clear that price wasn't an issue. My mind was already buzzing with ideas as I parked my car and stepped out onto the sidewalk, smoothing down my blouse as I approached the entrance.

As soon as I walked in, the energy in the studio hit me. The walls were currently a soft blush, framed with large, gold-rimmed mirrors. Workstations were scattered around, each one immaculately organized. The faint scent of makeup and skincare products wafted through the air. It was a beautiful space, but I could tell Jordan wanted something more reflective of her brand's growing prestige.

"Maya! You're here!" Jordan's voice echoed through the studio, and I spotted her across the room, flashing me her signature, megawatt smile. She was flawless as usual—her light brown skin glowed beneath perfectly applied makeup, and her sleek hair cascaded down her shoulders.

"Hey, girl!" I greeted her with a hug, already feeling more relaxed. Jordan had that effect on people—effortless warmth and an ability to make you feel like you'd known her for years, even if it had only been a few weeks.

"So, tell me what you're thinking about the redesign," I said as we settled into her office.

"I want it to feel more high-end, but still inviting. You know? Classy but not intimidating," she said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "And honestly, price is no issue. I want it to be perfect."

I nodded, already envisioning marble countertops, gold accents, and plush velvet seating for the waiting area. "I think we can make that happen. Let me work on a few mock-ups, and I'll have them to you by the end of the week."

"Perfect! I'm so excited to see what you come up with." Jordan beamed. "By the way, there's this makeup line launch happening this weekend. One of my friends is throwing the party—super exclusive, but you should totally come with me. It's gonna be fun!"

I hesitated, my instinct to say no kicking in. I wasn't the type to go to fancy events, especially not when I'd barely gotten settled in LA. "I don't know, Jordan. I'm still getting used to things around here."

"Oh, come on, Maya. You have to get out and meet people! Plus, I'd much rather go with you than some random guy I just met. Please?" She gave me a playful pout, knowing exactly how to twist my arm.

I sighed, giving in. "Alright, fine. But you owe me for this."

Jordan squealed and clapped her hands. "You won't regret it, I promise!"

We spent the next couple of hours going over some preliminary ideas for the studio. By the time we were finished, the sun had set, and it was time for me to head home. Jordan walked me to the door, still buzzing with excitement.

"Thank you so much for doing this, Maya. I can't wait to see the designs!"

"No problem. I'll have something ready by the end of the week, and then we can start shopping for furniture." I smiled, feeling satisfied with the day's work.

Jordan waved me off as I got into my car. I still had to grab something for dinner before heading home, so I decided to stop by this little Mexican spot I'd passed a few times downtown. The place smelled amazing, and I picked up some tacos and chips to go, my stomach growling as I headed back to the car.

As I stepped out of the restaurant, bags in hand, I spotted someone running by. At first, I didn't think anything of it—just another jogger out in the city—but then he slowed down. Marcus. I recognized him instantly, his lean figure catching the light as he jogged toward me.

"Hey!" Marcus called out, jogging in place as he caught his breath.

"Hey," I said, my heart doing that strange fluttering thing again. He was wearing a black tank top, his skin glistening with sweat. His hair was tousled, and his smirk—God, that smirk—was impossible to ignore.

"Small world, huh? Or maybe you're just following me," he teased, his eyes sparkling with amusement.

I laughed nervously, brushing a strand of hair behind my ear. "I could say the same about you."

Marcus glanced at the bags in my hand. "Grabbing some dinner?"

"Yeah, just something quick." I shifted, trying to avoid meeting his gaze for too long, but he didn't make it easy.

"So... about the other day," he started, leaning in slightly. "Caught you staring at me through my window. I must have made quite the impression."

My face flushed instantly, the embarrassment from earlier flooding back. "I wasn't—well, I didn't mean to—"

"It's okay," he said, chuckling. "I'm flattered."

I looked down, biting my lip, trying to figure out how to make a graceful exit. "I should probably get going..."

He stepped back, still grinning, but something about the way he looked at me made my heart race. "Yeah, wouldn't want your tacos to get cold. But... maybe we'll see each other again soon?"

I nodded, feeling the warmth rise to my cheeks. "Maybe."

With a final smile, I hurried to my car, tossing the bags inside before taking a deep breath. My heart was pounding in my chest, and I silently scolded myself. *Snap out of it, Maya,* I thought. *You're not some teenager with a crush.*

But as I drove back to my apartment, I couldn't stop thinking about Marcus's smirk, the way he made me feel both nervous and excited at the same time. It was maddening.

Once I got inside, I kicked off my shoes and unpacked my dinner on the kitchen counter. Before I could even take a bite, my phone rang, and the familiar name of my mom, Alice, lit up the screen. I hesitated for a second before answering.

"Hey, Mom."

"Maya, sweetheart! How are you? It's been a while since we talked."

"I'm doing good," I said, settling onto the couch. "Just getting used to things here."

Her voice was warm, but I could hear the concern beneath it. "Are you sure? You sound tired."

"I'm fine, Mom, really. Just busy with work."

"I hope you're taking care of yourself. You know, your father and I worry about you being out there by yourself."

"I know," I sighed. "But I needed this, Mom. It's good for me."

"I know, I know," she said softly. "Just promise you'll visit soon, okay?"

"I will. I promise."

We chatted for a little while longer, catching up on family gossip and small talk before I finally hung up, feeling a little more grounded. As I took a bite of my now lukewarm taco, I thought about the day—Jordan, the redesign, the party, and of course, Marcus.

Maybe LA wasn't so bad after all.