Fortune (Camren)

Chapter 11: Going perfectly as planned

Well how's everyone doing? How's quarantine treating you? I hope everyone is staying safe. Sorry for the long time in between updates but life happens.
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"There are some things you learn best in calm, and some in storm." - Willa Cather

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"Wake up, sleepyhead."

"Mmmmph." Lauren opened her eyes a smidgen before shutting them tightly again. She snatched the pillow out from under her own cheek and put it over her head, protecting her from the harsh light streaming in from the window that was illuminating dust motes as they danced through the air. "Fuck, what time is it?" she mumbled from underneath her protection. She heard Camila laugh and felt her palm as she rubbed Lauren's exposed back from her seat on the side of the bed. Lauren peeked out again, lifting the head cover just a tad. "Why are you dressed?"

Camila was fully clothed in a simple but elegant white strapless dress that showed off her square shoulders. "I need to head to the park to make sure everything is ready for you guys tonight." She pulled the pillow away from Lauren's face and leaned down to kiss a warm temple. "You fell asleep, and I let you nap because you looked so cute."

Lauren grumbled, refusing to open her eyes. "Never tell me I'm cute ever again."

Camila crinkled her nose and kissed her hair lightly once more, "Grumpy, too." She stood up then, her heels clicking against the wood floor as she walked to the door. "It's five now. You need to be there by eight o'clock. Should I have someone come pick you up?"

"I'll get myself there. Thanks."

Camila looked one last time at her tousled girlfriend wrapped up in twisted sheets, and she tumbled just a little farther into love. "I'll see you soon... Cutie." Then she ducked out the door before the pillow Lauren threw could hit her.

The park had been set up for the charity concert event, but there was still a flurry of activity before it began. In between trees laden with heavy spring leaves, there were large white canvas tents with temporary wood floors, ready to serve drinks and food brought in from catering trucks, and waiters dressed in black were being instructed in little huddles on how to serve the patrons and watch for over-indulgences. Little twinkling lights were strung in branches and on poles, bringing the effect of stars down into the commotion of the event. Banners and signs were placed strategically to show off the charity's cause and encourage donations. Cameras and speakers were set high to allow for proper audio and news coverage of the event. Finally, in a large open area, the stage had been set up to accommodate the bands performing.

Camila was inspecting the stage and its equipment and lighting, ensuring everything had been included when she felt a tap on her hip. It startled her and she whirled around, her long loose hair flying out and wide in an arc before coming to rest back on her shoulders.

"God, you scared me," she breathed as she smiled quickly at Taylor. The blonde was dressed in a slinky, black dress, long with a high cut to mid thigh. Camila thought she looked like the quintessential femme fatale, and Taylor was sure to be remembered for it as well as her performance. "Are you ready for tonight?"

"I am. I just wanted to thank you, darling. You've been so good to me."

Camila was suddenly swept up into a warm embrace, her nose nestled on a soft neck, and she could smell the subtle scent of vanilla and citrus on Taylor's neck. She returned the hug, pulling her friend tighter to her, unable to keep from smiling. After Taylor had broken her heart so many years ago, to have this, this friendship and trust, was a gift she had never expected. If only Lauren could understand.