Where Siren Lake Lies

Chapter 2: Unfinished Business

The morning after my art show dawned with a hazy glow filtering through my window as if the universe was still basking in the aftermath of my minor triumph. I stretched, limbs heavy with sleep and remnants of last night's excitement. My mind buzzed with thoughts of my sales—enough to cover the rent - a minor victory in my chaotic world.

I shuffled to the kitchen, the remnants of paint still staining my fingers, and poured a cup of coffee strong enough to wake the dead. I made a point not to look at the easel by the window. The painting from yesterday sat there—unfinished, waiting. Its edges teased the corners of my mind, like a shadow I didn't want to acknowledge. My skin prickled at the thought of it, but I shook it off, focusing instead on the hiss of the coffeemaker.

The silence wrapped around me like a warm blanket, but it didn't last. A loud, confident knock shattered the peace echoing through my apartment.

"Open up, art diva! I know you're in there!" Jess's voice rang out, playful yet bold.

I groaned, bracing for the whirlwind of energy she brought with her. "What now, Jess? Did you forget your diaphragm again?"

The door swung open, revealing her in a patched, cream-colored oversized bomber jacket that swamped her frame, paired with a fitted graphic tee that peeked out beneath. Her ripped jeans hugged her figure right, and her combat boots added an edgy touch. Her hair tumbled in wild waves, messy yet deliberate, framing her face flawlessly as that unmistakable sparkle danced in her eyes. "You're too talented to be holed up in here, Lila. I had to check on you before you turned into a hermit genius." She swiped my coffee and took a sip, grimacing at the taste as if she'd bitten into something sour.

Jess plopped herself onto my counter top, one leg swinging lazily, her presence demanding attention. "I heard the big news. You sold some pieces, you sneaky little genius!" She beamed at me, her eyebrows wiggling like she was in on a secret joke. "I knew it'd happen again"

I folded my arms, smirking. "Yep. Dreams do come true." I raised my coffee in celebration. "Here's to paying rent two months in a row without bumming cash off friends. Truly, I've made it."

Jess leaned back, unfazed by my sarcasm. "Hey, don't sell yourself short. That's a win in my book. You feel like another starving artist, and yet, here you are. Rent paid, coffee terrible, but thriving."

I rolled my eyes, but a small part of me felt a flicker of pride. "Yeah, rent today, maybe extra groceries next month. One day, I'll conquer the world." I flicked a glance at her. "But sure, we'll call that thriving."

She took another sip of my coffee and grimaced. "This brew could use a little more spice. You know what I mean."

I laughed, leaning against the counter. "You're such a cliché. What are you, a wannabe espresso connoisseur now?"

"Hey, I like my drinks like I like my men—bold and full-bodied." She winked, then her expression turned sly. "Speaking of which, did you see the guy at your show? The one with the swoon-worthy eyes? You should totally hook up with him."

I rolled my eyes again, not ready to unpack all that baggage. "Oh, god no. Jasper? I barely know him. He just comes to my shows. I don't need another disaster, thanks."

"C'mon, Lila! Live a little. You're making art; get laid." She paused, a playful grin creeping onto her lips. "Or do you need me to set you up with someone? I have a list, you know. High demand, of course."

"Why would I want a list of your 'eligible bachelors'? I'd rather gouge my eyes out with a paintbrush."

"Fine, fine. But you're missing out on the fun. What's the point of all this amazing art if you can't flaunt it a little?"