Not the only lunatic

{4}A Spark of Attraction

As I pulled into the mall's parking lot, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and nostalgia. It had been a while since I'd last seen AJ, and I was looking forward to spending some quality time with her. I parked my car and grabbed my purse, checking my phone one last time to make sure I wasn't running late. Satisfied that I had plenty of time to spare, I stepped out of the car and made my way towards the mall's entrance.

As I walked through the sliding glass doors, I was immediately hit with the familiar sounds and smells of the mall. The hum of conversation, the chatter of children, and the sweet aroma of freshly baked goods wafted through the air, transporting me back to a time when life was simpler. I smiled to myself, feeling a sense of comfort and familiarity wash over me.

I made my way to the southeast corner of the mall, where AJ and I had agreed to meet. As I approached the designated spot, I spotted AJ waiting for me, her bright smile and infectious energy radiating from across the room. We exchanged warm hugs, and I couldn't help but notice the sparkle in her eyes.

"Hey, girl! It's so great to see you!" AJ exclaimed, holding me at arm's length to take in my outfit. "You look stunning, as always. I love the necklace – it's gorgeous!"

I smiled, feeling a pang of gratitude towards AJ for noticing the copper-colored key necklace. It was a treasured possession, one that held a special significance for me. "Thanks, AJ. I'm glad you like it. I was thinking of wearing something a bit more casual today, but I wanted to dress up for our little reunion."

AJ chuckled, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Well, you definitely succeeded. You look like a million bucks. Shall we grab some lunch and catch up? I'm starving!"

I laughed, nodding in agreement. "Sounds like a plan to me. Lead the way, I'm game for whatever."

As we walked through the mall, AJ filled me in on her latest adventures, from her travels to her latest projects. I listened intently, asking questions and offering words of encouragement whenever she needed it. It was clear that AJ was thriving, and I couldn't be happier for her.

We eventually settled on a quaint little café, where we spent the next hour chatting and laughing over sandwiches and coffee. The conversation flowed easily, and I found myself opening up to AJ in ways I hadn't been able to with anyone else in a long time. She listened with a sympathetic ear, offering words of wisdom and support whenever I needed it.

As we finished our meal and prepared to part ways, AJ turned to me with a serious expression. "Verena, I have to ask – what's going on with you? You seem a bit...off. Is everything okay?"

I hesitated, unsure of how to respond. AJ had always been perceptive, and I knew she could see right through me. But I wasn't ready to open up about my struggles just yet. Not even to AJ.

"I'm fine, AJ. Just a bit stressed with work and training, that's all," I replied, forcing a smile onto my face.

AJ raised an eyebrow, her expression skeptical. "Verena, I know you. You're not fine. But I won't push it. Just know that I'm here for you, whenever you're ready to talk."

I nodded, feeling a surge of gratitude towards AJ. She was right, of course. I wasn't fine. But I appreciated her willingness to give me space, to let me work through my issues on my own terms.

As we hugged goodbye, I knew that this was just the beginning of a much-needed conversation. One that would take time, patience, and trust. But with AJ by my side, I felt a sense of hope that I hadn't felt in a long time. Maybe, just maybe, I could finally start to heal, to find my way again.

As I parted ways with AJ, I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief wash over me. It was good to have someone like AJ in my life, someone who understood me without needing to be told. I made my way back to my car, feeling a sense of gratitude towards AJ for being there for me.

As I drove back to the hotel, I couldn't shake off the feeling that AJ had left me with. She had seen right through me, and I knew that I couldn't keep my struggles hidden for much longer. But for now, I just wanted to unwind and clear my head.

I pulled into the hotel's parking lot and made my way to the lobby. As I walked through the doors, I was greeted by the familiar sight of the hotel's bar. I had been meaning to check it out, and now seemed like the perfect time.

I took a seat at the bar and ordered a whiskey on the rocks. As I waited for my drink to arrive, I took a moment to people-watch. The bar was bustling with activity, with patrons laughing and chatting over drinks. I spotted a few familiar faces, including some of the other wrestlers from the tournament.

Just as I was starting to relax, I saw him. Dean Ambrose, the copper-haired SHIELD member, was sitting at the end of the bar, nursing a beer. Our eyes met, and for a moment, we just stared at each other.

I felt a flutter in my chest, a mix of annoyance and attraction. I had to admit, Dean was a handsome man, with piercing blue eyes and a chiseled jawline. But his attitude and arrogance had always put me off.

As I watched, Dean raised his glass in a silent toast, his eyes never leaving mine. I raised an eyebrow, unsure of how to respond. But before I could react, he stood up and made his way towards me.

"Mind if I join you?" he asked, his voice low and smooth.

I hesitated for a moment, unsure of what to say. But something about Dean's demeanor put me at ease, and I found myself nodding in agreement.

"Not at all," I replied, gesturing to the empty stool beside me.

Dean sat down, his eyes never leaving mine. "So, what brings you to the bar tonight?" he asked, his voice laced with curiosity.

I shrugged, taking a sip of my whiskey. "Just needed to unwind, I guess. It's been a long day."

Dean nodded, his expression sympathetic. "I know the feeling. Sometimes, a drink and some good company are just what you need to clear your head."

We sat in silence for a moment, sipping our drinks and watching the crowd. I couldn't help but feel a sense of unease, unsure of what to make of Dean's sudden interest in me. But as we chatted, I found myself relaxing in his presence, feeling a sense of camaraderie that I hadn't expected.

As the night wore on, we talked about everything and nothing, our conversation flowing easily. I found myself laughing and joking with Dean, feeling a sense of connection that I hadn't felt in a long time.

But as the hours passed, I couldn't shake off the feeling that there was more to Dean's interest in me than met the eye. Was he just being friendly, or was there something more at play? I couldn't be sure, but one thing was certain – I was intrigued.

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this is the start of something interesting...

words:1233 <3