A Shot at Love

Spare Change

As I finish applying my lipstick, the doorbell rings, and I excitedly race to the front of the loft, wrapping my emerald silk robe around me. When I open the door, I'm greeted by Priya's infectious smile and warm embrace. As we pull apart, she tucks her silky, straight cinnamon hair behind her ear, her sparkling amber eyes locked on mine.

"This feels surreal," Priya says, her voice filled with awe. "I can't believe we're finally meeting in real life! I feel silly saying that out loud." She chuckles.

"Isn't it wild?" I reply. "I feel like we've been hanging out every day in person. I'm so happy you're here! Anyway, come in! Do you want something to drink or eat?"

"Mama definitely needs a drink after today," Priya says with a grin. "Do you have any wine?"

"White, red, or rosé?" I ask.

"I knew we were destined to be friends," Priya jokes. "Let's go with red."

We head into the open kitchen area, where Priya settles on the same plush velvet barstool I had occupied earlier. I open the cabinet and pull out a long-stemmed wine glass, very Olivia Pope from Scandal style. I select a bottle of cabernet from my mini wine rack and begin uncorking the wine.

"So, I've got about an hour before The Polo Lounge. Have you been there?" I ask, twisting the corkscrew into the cork.

"I have! It's more on the boujee side but very old Hollywood," Priya responds.

"That's what I thought. I've heard some interesting stories. Let's just say, a lot goes down there," I laugh, pouring Priya a glass of cabernet.

"Here you go, babe," I say, handing her the glass.

"You're not joining me?" Priya asks.

"I had my fair share of rosé earlier during the Tinder debacle, so I'm on a hydration mission for now. I obviously want to be on my best behavior." I play.

"Smart girl. Well, you look amazing. What are you going to wear?" Priya asks.

"Follow me!" I reply.

Priya grabs her wine glass, and we weave through the living area scattered with unpacked boxes. The loft's unique design features high ceilings and tall windows gracing each wall, casting a soft golden light at this time of day. A sparkling crystal chandelier separates the kitchen from the bedroom and bath area, reflecting the sunlight.

I step into the changing area near my bed, passing a floating white wall that separates the bedroom from a freestanding tub in the bathroom.

"So, spill, how was work today?" I inquire, pulling out dresses from my closet and laying them on the bed.

"You remember I've been working in the marketing department at Blush Magazine, right?" Priya settles onto a chaise lounge.

"Yes, and I'm still jealous you work there. That magazine is giving very mindful, very demure vibes," I chuckle, tossing down another dress.

"I know. And I love working for them. But I was offered a promotion to head their social media. We're expanding the department and I've already run into so many problems. I have a small team working under me now, so I have to be the problem solver and it's just been a lot stepping into this leadership role. Champagne problems, I know, but I'm just overwhelmed and terrified," she vents, taking a much-needed sip of her wine.

I pause, looking at Priya. She is smart, driven, and the whole package. I can't believe she's feeling insecure.

"Priya, you're perfect for this! If anyone deserves a leadership role, it's you - and you live and breathe social media. Starting something new is always uncomfortable, but as I read in my self-help book, everything we want is on the other side of fear," I say with a half-giggle, genuinely meaning it. "You've got this, girl."