Sealed with a kiss (WomanxWoman)

6

It's been a week since Charlotte and I had that quarrel, and things have mostly gone back to normal. Well, almost. We still hang out at the office, but she feels distant-like she's keeping her guard up. Our conversations are mostly about the campaign now.

I really miss what we had before when it felt like she was more of a friend than just my boss. But maybe it's for the best. The clearer our boundaries are, the easier it is for me to keep my crush in check-or at least that's what I keep telling myself.

On the other hand, Cherry and I have gotten really close. We text every day, sometimes even talk on the phone. I've gotten used to her playful and flirtatious nature, and I really enjoy her company. She's an amazing friend, and having her around makes me feel less alone. It feels like I finally found a best friend, something I've never really had before.

As for work, "Frederique" loved our campaign idea and gave us the go-ahead. Charlotte and I scheduled a photoshoot with Cherry for her social media launch. We're also planning to put it up on billboards across the country so even people who don't follow her can join in. It's a win-win: Cherry gets more exposure, and we get to use her platform to promote the brand.

Everything seems promising, except for one thing-Charlotte and Cherry will be in the same room again, and I'll be caught in the middle. I really hope it goes smoothly this time. I've tried to reassure Charlotte that Cherry and I are just friends, but for some reason, she doesn't trust her. She always seems to think Cherry's out to get me. Sure, Cherry can be a bit much for some people, but I really feel like I've known her for years. We just clicked.

The day I've been dreading has arrived. I'm on set (who knew we had a photo studio on the 10th floor?), getting everything ready and discussing the vision with the photographer. Charlotte walks in, and just like that, her smile lights up my entire day. I need to get over this crush-bad things are bound to happen. One look at her and I'm already melting into a puddle.

But then her smile falters as she looks across the room. I turn and see Cherry making her entrance. Here we go. I quickly make my way over to Cherry and give her a big hug. I've missed her so much, especially since I haven't seen her since our dinner at the "boulevard". Between her traveling and our schedules, it's been too long. As we hug, I whisper, "Please, be professional."

Cherry smirks, throwing a quick glance at Charlotte. "Don't worry, I won't do anything to upset your sourpuss girlfriend."

I groan. "Again, Cherry, she's not my girlfriend. She's my boss. And she's straight!"

"Sure, whatever you say, darling. But you know what I think." Cherry grins mischievously.

"You're never wrong, I know. Just leave it, okay?"

She shrugs. "Okay, but you look so cute when you get all flustered." She pinches my cheek, teasing.

The shoot goes off without a hitch, and the photos look amazing-Cherry is so photogenic. Throughout the day, I can feel Charlotte watching from a distance, never fully engaging. It stings a little, but I try to shake it off.

Once we're done, I walk Cherry out. We're laughing, sharing our little inside jokes (finally, someone I have private jokes with!), when Cherry asks, "Do you have more work to do, or are you free? I've cleared my schedule."

I glance at the time. It's 5:30 p.m. Technically, I don't have anything left I need to finish today. I could wrap up the final touches on the campaign tomorrow. But... that would mean skipping my usual after-hours time with Charlotte. What am I doing? I need to stop obsessing over her and get a life!

"Actually, I'm free," I tell Cherry. "I can finish up tomorrow."

Her smile widens. "Great! The limo will be here in a minute. Let's go to my place, order takeout, and binge-watch movies. It'll be fun!"

I grin. "I'd love that."

A sleek limo pulls up, and we slide inside. It's my first time in a limo, and I can't help but glance out the window. That's when I catch Charlotte's gaze. She's watching me... but the moment our eyes meet, she quickly looks away.

God, I hope I'm not in trouble again.
------------------------------------------------------------

Cherry's apartment-more like a palace, if you asked me-looked both fancy and homey. It's funny that I had never been to her place, yet I considered her my best friend. I suppose I never did things the ordinary way, and neither does she. We both have our quirks, which makes us fit together perfectly.

We had a blast that night! We indulged in junk food, shared a few bottles of wine, and watched chic flicks and rom-coms. The laughter flowed as easily as the wine, especially when we reminisced about her adventures. And let me tell you, Cherry has been through A LOT! By the time we finished, it was close to midnight, and I was exhausted.

"What don't you stay over?" she suggested. "You can take the guest room. I'll find something for you to wear tonight, and I have a spare toothbrush." Her kindness warmed my heart.

"That would be great. Thank you! Are you sure I won't interrupt your exciting life?"

"Not at all! Sometimes I long for what others think is boring." A sad smile flickered across her face, leaving me puzzled. How could she feel that way? She has everything-looks, money, and a thrilling lifestyle at just 28 years old! Maybe it was the wine; I felt a little tipsy myself. I hugged her tightly. "Thank you; you're the best!"

Entering the guest room, I was struck by how nice it was. I could definitely get used to this! Tastefully decorated, with a king-size bed and my own bathroom-pure luxury! I quickly removed my makeup, brushed my teeth, and slipped into the PJs Cherry had lent me. Within moments, I drifted off into a deep sleep.

When I woke up, I was disoriented for a moment before it all came rushing back: I was at Cherry's. Wait, what time is it?! I scrambled for my phone-8:30 AM! SHIT! I'm late! I dashed to the bathroom, frantically getting ready while still wearing yesterday's clothes. I didn't even need to pass through my apartment to change. SHIT, SHIT, SHIT! I've never been late in my life!

As I put on my shoes, Cherry emerged from her room, wearing a white fluffy robe, still looking sleepy.

"What's going on? What's all the fuss about?"

"I'm late for work!"

Cherry rubbed her eyes. "So what? It's not the end of the world."

"Maybe not to you! I can't believe I'm going to be late for the first time in my life!"

She burst out laughing, and I groaned. "I don't see what's so funny!" She walked over and pinched my cheeks. I had a feeling this would become a habit of hers. "You're so cute! Don't worry, sugar; I'll call my driver. You'll be at work in no time." I was so grateful to have her as a friend, even if she could be a little annoying sometimes.

Ten minutes later, I arrived at work, grateful that Cherry had come to my rescue. I made my way to my floor and to my desk, trying not to draw too much attention. Once seated, I dove into my work. Claire spotted me and came over.

"Is everything okay, Jenny? You look distracted. Where were you this morning? I brought you coffee-extra strong." She placed a steaming cup in front of me.

"Thank you, Claire! You're the best! I had a late night with a friend and must have forgotten to set my alarm."

Carol came over and patted my shoulder. "Don't worry, honey; you arrived just in time! Charlotte also came in late, just a few minutes before you, so I doubt she even noticed."

Phew! I felt a wave of relief. I've never been late in my life. Claire continued to comfort me with her gentle touch. "There's always a first," she said, standing up and leaving me to my work. I couldn't help but wonder why Charlotte had been late; it was so unlike her. I shook off the thought and focused on sorting through yesterday's pictures before my meeting with the graphic designer.