Fatal Attraction

Chapter 21

Camila walked through the door to her apartment, smiling from ear to ear.

Lauren had just dropped her off after their wonderful study date at the local cafe, and her stomach was filled with butterflies.

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After they had finally analyzed the first part of Camila's book for English, Lauren had ordered them both a glass of wine, and they finally got to relax for the first time that day. They got to talk about less serious things for the first time in a long time, such as books, music, and Lauren's obsession with comic books.

"So," Camila said, sipping her glass of Chardonnay, "what's the obsession? I honestly never understood it."

"Well, I hope you never have to understand it, because this shit is expensive!"

Camila frowned. "But comic books are so small. How much do they cost, usually?"

"Well, individual issues typically come out either monthly or bimonthly, depending on the series, and they retail for about $3.99. However, if you don't want to get the individual issues, which is understandable because they're so tiny, the volumes typically cost about $15.99."

Camila's jaw dropped. "What the hell, Lauren? How the hell do you afford these?"

An awkward silence fell over them, as Camila realized she didn't think before she spoke.

"Well, I mean, I haven't really been able to feed my addiction because of.. Obvious reasons, but-"

"Lauren, I'm so sorry, I wasn't-"

Lauren smiled. "Camz, it's okay, really. Besides, it's actually a good thing that I don't have extra cash because it motivates me to save my money. Hey, when I get paid, how about I take you to Forbidden Planet?"

"What's Forgotten Planet?"

Lauren laughed, realizing how loud it was in the cafe around them.

"Forbidden Planet is a comic book store right by Union Square. How about I show you some of my favorites? Who knows, maybe you'll like them."

Camila downed her glass of wine, then smiled at the green eyed girl. "That actually sounds awesome. But really, I want to know, what's the appeal?"

Lauren shrugged. "Honestly? It's just another distraction. Some people like gossip magazines, some people like books, but I like comics. I dot know, maybe it's due to my lack of an attention span."

Camila nodded. "That makes sense. I don't know, I always figured that comics were for kids."

"I mean, they are, in a sense. They divide them up, usually. But just the idea of someone having that much power and freedom.. It's intriguing. I mean, I wish I could live the life of a superhero."

Lauren got the attention of their waiter, and waved him over to their table.

"This little lady right here would like another glass, please."

"Oh my goodness, Lauren, no way! Besides, this is hitting me already!"

Lauren laughed, rolling her eyes at the brunette. "Ignore her. She'll have another glass."

She grabbed her own glass, and downed the rest of it, as well.

"Actually, sir, make that two."

The waiter took their empty glasses, and went into the kitchen. Camila shoved Lauren roughly, causing Lauren to gasp.

"What was that for?!"

"For trying to get me drunk, asshole!"

Lauren laughed, bringing Camila in closer so she could kiss her.