“I’ve been in a rut, and I didn’t realize it until I met you. Your ex and his family might have been unsupportive, but, for what it’s worth, I think you’re capable of just about anything.” The two remained locked in eye contact, Cierra blissfully silent, basking in Julian’s words. “And I know you said you weren’t looking for anything serious, and that’s fine, I’m happy to go at your pace, but just to be clear, I’mreallyinto you.”
“I’m really into you, too.”
In that moment, they seemed to recognize something in each other — a yearning for some kind of interaction that was easy, kind, and simple. The kind that came from a lack of history and didn’t ask for anything more than compassion and understanding. They had both experienced what it was like to grow with someone, only to realize that after all that time, it just wasn’t right.
So, after going through all that, to then find herself in a secluded clearing in Central Park with someone who wordlessly understood that same pain and could somehow offer a spark of life despite that, felt like divine intervention.
And when he leaned in to kiss her, despite the pressure of his hardened torso on her body, she enjoyed every moment. Her mind was clear, and her usual anxious thoughts were replaced by a yearning to crystallize this moment in amber: this evening in the park, Julian, and the intoxicating feeling taking over her body.
The morning after their date, Cierra woke dreamy-eyed in her bed and stroked the part of her neck where Julian had kissed it in the doorway of her building. She hadn’t gone home with him, which only fueled her sensual imagination. It had been over half a decade since she had seen a naked man in real life outside of her ex (not counting Pride month), and she had been sweating all afternoon . . . it didn’t feel like the right time. And he hadn’t asked, which only made her want him more.
Lazily, she made her way to the bathroom to get ready for work. A good-morning text appeared on her phone when she checked the time, suggesting the feelings washing over her were mutual.
Julian: I woke up thinking about your lips
Julian: when can I see you again?
Cierra couldn’t help but smile in relief. She had needed a sign that the conversation under the tall oaks — that the way he kissed her — wasn’t some late-night dream. In an ideal world, she would see him again that night, but it was her last free evening before her first international trip with the Lawsons. Early the next day, they’d be heading to Mexico City, and while Erik’s work event had gone more or less without a hitch, this trip was bound to be far more demanding.
Part of Sincha’s new initiative, and a major source of investment for their latest round of funding, Zelda had explained, was the promise of on-boarding new fashion talent and collaborations with global designers. The business needed to attract a more international customer base, and Mexico City was their first stop as they expanded into the Central and South American markets.
Since Mexico City’s fashion week would not take place until later in the fall, visiting ahead of the busy season made it easier for Zelda and the rest of the team to meet designers without having to compete for attention with other buyers. Zelda’s team was going to be hosting a three-day event geared toward networking, including an industry party, which was the primary source of Cierra’s anxiety, but also a major opportunity to explore new recipe ideas and film more exciting content.
The only other country Cierra had ever visited was Canada, and the familiar-looking streets of Toronto hadn’t offered much of an adventure. Still, part of her wished she didn’t have to go so soon. There was a creeping worry in her that if she didn’t keep the momentum afloat with Julian, she might slip out of his orbit. Maybe it was a tad dramatic, as it was only their third date, but there was something between them. Something she hadn’t felt in a long, long time, and she wasn’t about to give it away. Not even for a fully paid luxury vacation weekend toLa Ciudad de los Palacios(the City of Palaces).
With slumped shoulders, Cierra sighed and messaged Julian back.
Cierra: flying to CDMX tomorrow and need to pack . . . what about next week when I’m back?
Julian: see you then, and enjoy. One of my favorite cities!
Of course he’d already been there.
Cierra: Any recs?
Julian: Librería Porrúa Bosque de Chapultepec
Cierra: A library? really lol
Julian: a bookstore haha just trust me
As Cierra was googling the location Julian had just sent, her apartment alarm began buzzing at an incoming call from Mia. She had begged to come over to see the new place, but knowing her, she probably wanted new updates about Julian. Which she wouldn’t get, because they were just enjoying each other’s company. Without expectations or labels. At least for now.
Cierra opened her door to Mia, who despite her fit frame, was huffing and out of breath as she climbed the last steps.
“At least you won’t have to worry about a gym membership,” she said through labored breaths.
“Thanks for coming, Mia,” Cierra said before giving her friend a hug. “I can’t wait to show you the place.”
“Uh huh. Water. Need water.”
After getting her friend a glass and showing her around, Mia took a seat on Cierra’s bed as she began packing.
“So what’s new with you? How’ve you been? John misses you, you know.”
Cierra smirked, knowing full well Mia’s grumpy doorman felt nothing of the sort. “I’ve been great. Really excited to go visit Mexico City, but part of me wants to stay.”
“Why?”
