ahalya was born and raised in covington. her parents own a popular fresh food market/artisanal goods store in town called urban harvest. she moved back into town following art school and though she got engaged, after her father fell sick and she wasn't able to commit to the life her fiancĂŠ would have wanted them to have, she ended things. after a few years of struggle with her family and her father's health. right now she is still heavily involved with the store, but is trying to fall back into her old routine. a few wanted connections here
IN THE WEEDS. . .
tw: cancer mention, fertility issues
From humble origins, Vikram and Geeta Reddy moved around the country before finally settling in Covington. They often tout theirs as a true American Dream story, and they both worked hard to provide a stable and fulfilling life for their children. Geeta had always dreamed of having a big family but they decided that before they welcomed their first child to the world, they would establish roots in Covington. With just enough to rent the space, the Reddys opened up Urban Harvest right on Walk Shopping Strip. The initial days of running a brand new business proved difficult and they struggled to make ends meet for a few years, often wondering whether they had the strength to continue to pour their heart and soul into a venture that seemed to not be profitable. However, after a feature in the local newspaper following an act of bravery by Geeta, business started to pick up and within a few months, they became the go to store for many of the townspeopleâs needs. Life seemed to be going just as they planned but they faced their next trouble very soon after.
Having spent so much time and energy on their business, they forgot about their dreams to start a family. When they decided to start trying to conceive, they struggled time and time again. Visiting all sorts of doctors, trying all sorts of remedies, they all but gave up hope when Geeta finally became pregnant. It was a long and tough nine months but at the end, Vikram and Geeta finally welcomed Ahalya Meenakshi Reddy to the world. As if to fulfill her motherâs dream of having a large family all on her own, Ahalya was nothing short of a handful. She was an overactive child, extroverted and bright. Most of the patrons at Urban Harvest saw her growing up as she would accompany her parents to the store frequently. As she grew older, the overactive imagination was funneled into art. Vibrant colors on large canvases became her outlet for everything that she saw dancing in her head. And while her parents had hoped sheâd pick something they would consider a more stable career, they were confident that if nothing else, she would at least have the store to fall back on. That was why they had put their life and blood into building up Urban Harvest in the first place.
Following high school, Ahalya didnât go too far, enrolling in Savannah College of Art and Design. As soon as she was done with college, Ahalya returned to Covington, working alongside her parents much like she had as a child while continuing to work on her art. Her life was nothing spectacular, but it was fulfilled and satisfying in its own right. Being back home was comfortable and for all her curiosity and extroversion, Ahalya was in many ways unwilling to step too far out of her comfort zone. Which was why, despite finding who she thought was the love of her life, she wasnât sure if she could make the move out. He was an adventurer, wanting to travel the world without any roots. And while the stories of adventure were exhilarating, they were equally terrifying. She had no reason to say no when he asked her to marry him, but she also had her own set of reservations on whether or not a future together would work when they wanted completely different things in life. It was her fatherâs cancer diagnosis that completely changed the trajectory of her familyâs life and her own. It was the reason that her relationship ended, because despite her fiancĂŠâs willingness to stay by her side, she knew that she could never leave her parents side. Not now. Nor could she ask him to change his plans all for her, without a promise that she would ever be able to live out the life that he wanted with him.
The world that had seemed bright and rosy came crushing down and for a few years, Ahalya saw the darkest parts of life. Through trying to stay strong for her mother who completely lost her strength to becoming a caretaker for her father who was going through the hardest battle of his life, she worried for the first time that maybe she wasnât enough to support both of them through this. Taking over the responsibilities at the store, she came out the other side stronger for it as Vikramâs treatment successfully eradicated the cancer. While Ahalya continued her responsibilities at the store, she is trying, little by little, to restart the life that she had been forced to put on pause for the past three years. Â
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Lee shrugged; for him, getting something stuck in his head didnât make it any more personal, it just made it ⌠annoying. âYeah, of course I remember it, along with a whole host of others I wonât sing at you because my voice is not that good, and also, Iâll get them stuck in your head.â He could think of three for insurance alone that could very easily do just that. Then again, Lee was very prone to getting a song or jingle stuck in his head, for whatever reason, and was probably more annoyed by them as a result. Still, he wasnât annoyed by the whole jingle ramble. Just so long as he didnât have to hear any more, anyway. As for the advertisements âŚÂ âYeah, those creep me out.â They did more than creep him out, if he was being honest. The whole plastic smile thing reminded him of some less than pleasant times growing up. Still, he smiled and added, âI guess thereâs not much advertising Iâm actually a fan of. I think ads for medications are inherently a bad thing. I have to get up and leave the room whenever a Brand Power ad comes on. And, itâs crazy to me that weight loss programs and betting platforms and alcohol brands have free reign on TV, and now on our phones, too. So, Iâm probably not the person to ask about this, just, you know, generally.â He chuckled softly as she mentioned Chopped, and said, âYou know, I donât think Iâm at that level when it comes to cooking. So, uh, yeah, letâs go with option A â can you take me to the veggie section?â | @ahalyaxreddy
Ahalya did not anticipate that singing the jingle would have earned her a short speech on the merits, or lack thereof, of advertising. Here she thought she was just making small talk but now she wondered if Lee had actually studied this or had somehow been burned by marketing in the past. Maybe, like Ahalya, he too had fallen victim to the catchy tunes or flashy ads and purchased something that ended up not working or being wasteful. Watching him curiously, she nodded slowly as he listed off the categories of ads that he disliked. âLee, I have to tell you,â she said with a laugh and shake of her head. âI never thought that deeply about ads, but Iâm extremely susceptible to marketing. Iâm the exact target audience and I will absolutely purchase things on a whim.â If her financial state was better, she would certainly have more junk piling up in her apartment. âSo with how passionate you are, it sounds like you should be writing to our senator or the FCC or something. Your thoughts are wasted on the likes of me. They deserve a larger, more influential audience.â And this time she said so with utmost sincerity, because whether there was merit or not in advertising, there definitely was in his statements. âToo bad. I was looking forward to seeing what you came up with if I offered you chocolate and eggplant.â She teased, walking him over to the produce. | @leeabhrams
Through all the relationships and friendships that Samara had lost out in lifeâshe learned one thing, she couldnât hold onto pretty much anyone. Was it a morose thought? Absolutely. Sure she had great friends, but somewhere now she was always wary of how close she got to others. Because for the last little while sheâd realized that maybe sheâd gone about her adult life all wrong. Every single decision sheâd made felt like the wrong one now that she was thinking about them years later. But it didnât matter, she couldnât go back and change anything now. So instead sheâd continue going through the motions and pretending like everything was going great in her lifeâbesides no one asked her about it so why should she show those emotions to anyone? It was easier to be a friend to someone than to have someone be a friend to herâthat was one of the hard truths she'd learnt and would continue to abide by. All these thoughts continued to whirl around her each and every time she was confronted by Ahalya, because truly losing the friendship of that one person hit Samara so hard that it felt like everything else was a mere ripple affect even if some of the things occurred before.Â
When she approached the woman in question, she gave her a smile before glancing down at her empty glass. The way Ahalya mentioned meeting a friend of course piqued Samaraâs interestâespecially when they were meeting here of all places but then if the other person suggested it, Ahalya might not have wanted to explain why sheâd rather be anywhere but here. âOh thatâs nice, did you guys want a tableâŚor?â She left her question incomplete not wanting to ask if they were just meeting here or planning on staying because while Samara was a great pretenderâshe didn't think it would be enjoyable to see Ahalya having fun in her workspace with another. But that was that annoying jealousy that poked itâs stupid head up every so often which Samara had learnt to suppress. âThanks,â she said in response to the compliment even if Samara didnât know that it was entirely true but didnât choose to draw attention to it. Instead she nodded at the other when she asked about a refill and chuckled softly before shrugging, âapparently youâre right. Itâs my observant skills and my ability to listen like a therapist,â she said as she pulled up the soda gun and refilled the otherâs glass. A part of her wanted to bring up the other topic that they both shared in common, Harlow, or maybe each otherâs parents but all of that felt incredibly forced and so she stayed quiet before holding out the filled glass to Ahalya once more. âSo umâhow did you night go the last time we saw each other? During the auction? Did you have a decent time?â | @ahalyaxreddy
Having remained in Covington while most people left, it was hard for her not to see friendships as transient. Samara was the first person that had taught her this lesson and each subsequent departure or growing distance didnât impact Ahalya nearly as much. After all, when she lost the one person that she thought would stick with her until the very end, how could she question or hurt over the loss of people who werenât as close? This reality became worse when Samara returned. Up until that point, Ahalya could believe that it was due to the distance. They were in two separate cities and Samara had a life that Ahalya didnât understand or know. So it made sense that they were growing apart. Maybe she was in denial but she held onto some level of hope that if Samara were to come back, things would naturally settle back into how they had been.
Except they didnât. They remained the exact same. If not worse.
The awkwardness that fell between them was somehow worse than absolute silence and not hearing from each other in weeks. And trying to interact with her now, running into her in all these places, it was only proving time and time again that their friendship did not crumble because of distance. They were both different people now. They had grown differently in adulthood, and their paths diverged as a result. Seeing her now, Ahalya could understand why her friendship might not be necessary in Samaraâs life. Ahalya cast a glance over her shoulder and realized that one there were no tables available. And that was her saving grace because she wasnât sure if she could be comfortable in the bar with this weird tension hanging over her. âIt doesnât look like there are any tables open anyways,â she said with a small shake of her head. âAnd I wouldnât want you to kick someone out.â
As Samara explained her talent for listening, Ahalya agreed. She saw that in her friend from a very young age. Her talent for empathizing and making people feel heard. âI donât know how often youâre behind the bar, but Iâm sure youâd be making a lot in tips.â She affirmed, feeling the need to fill the silence and yet finding each word she uttered clunky and awkward. It was Samara that found ways to keep the conversation afloat. âRight, the auction. It was fine. I went home soon after and had my own little party with ice cream and wine.â She shared, thanking the other for the refill. âHow was your time with Georgie?â | @samaraxkhanna
friday, april 5th, 2024 ; anytime.
â at early rise gym, riveroak farms.
for: anyone.
After Dom had just finished a set he stood and surveyed the gym floor while he caught his breath. It was a day like any other, him getting a workout in before he tended to business, no matter how late the night may have been the day before. His whole life he'd been used to the grind and into his thirties now there was no stopping what could've been considered routine. "You alright over there?" He called out with a big smile. The endorphins exercise produced were real. "Need some help?
Had it been a while since Ahalya had stepped foot in a gym? Yes. Did that mean that she was going to go straight to the treadmills and only do cardio for the whole hour? No. She was determined to actually throw in a strength circuit. Problem was, being the clueless wannabe gym rat that she was, the machines were absolutely foreign. As were the gears and knobs to adjust the settings. Sheepishly glancing over her shoulder at the kind stranger who offered help, she nodded. "I've been battling with this machine for the past ten minutes. I swear I've tried every single permutation and it's still too tall." | @dcminicking
He chuckled at Ahalya's theatrical comment about his height. Nolan had never really thought much about it before. Most times, he reckoned he stood out more because of his reserved and nerdy nature. "I s'pose you're right. Can't exactly hide me height, can I? Unless I start walking around like Quasimodo," he joked, hunching his shoulders and doing a silly impression of the hunchback. "No kitchens have been harmed in the making of me meals... yet," he assured her with a grin. "I do alright, but I'm no Gordon Ramsey. More like a Gordon Ramsay wannabe." He appreciated her lighthearted banter, it made him feel they were old mates.
His eyes lit up at the mention of Harlow - like it always did. "Oh yes, her buns are ace.â He caught himself and back tracked. âI mean... her bread... it's brilliant," he stammered, his cheeks flushing slightly at the unintentional innuendo. He cleared his throat, trying to recover. "I like all her baked goods, really. The croissants, the scones, the cinnamon rolls... she's got a real talent, that one."Â
He couldn't help but smile as he thought about Harlow. He liked her, that's clear. But itâs not a small crush. Maybe it was her kind eyes, or the way she always seemed to have a smile for him, even on the gloomiest of days. Or maybe it was the fact that fate seemed determined to keep crossing their paths, after all these years. "What's your favorite thing to cook? Or eat, since you reckon you're more of a Gordon Ramsay in the eating department?" he said, changing the subject before he got too lost in his thoughts. He chuckled, curious to learn more about his new friend.
Ahalya shook her head and then laughed heartily when he demonstrated what he would look like with his shoulders hunched over. Here she had thought sheâd be left with only her imagination, but she appreciated that Nolan was able to play along. âThen people would be talking about you for other reasons. Either way, youâd be calling attention to yourself. Might as well be because they think you came down the Beanstalk.â She said, raising his childrenâs story reference with one of her own. âBetter than I can say.â After all, sheâd had a number of casualties in the form of pots and pans whenever she step foot into the kitchen. So she was grateful that at least Nolan wasnât about to burn down houses. âLetâs keep that yet to a never Mr. Wannabe Ramsey.â
As the conversation shifted to Harlow, Ahalya noted the way that he seemed to instantly brighten. It was the same way that she did when they were talking about Harlowâs desserts. Because she loved her best friend, but she loved the magic that she created in the kitchen that much more. And she raised an amused brow when he mentioned that her buns were nice. Granted, sheâd set him up for that innuendo, but it was hilarious watching how he fumbled over his words immediately. âYes, she does have very nice buns,â she teased, as the color rushed to his cheeks. If she didnât suspect before, now she was absolutely confident that he had at least a minor crush on her friend. âShe does. In more than just the kitchen too. Sheâs talented in pretty much everything that she does.â Ahalya raved, knowing that her role was naturally to talk up Harlow as much as possible.
As she observed the way he seemed to get lost in his own thoughts, she wondered if it was a good idea to just be blunt and ask him about how he felt towards Harlow. It wasnât like he was being all that subtle. And from what she knew about Nolan and the times that they interacted, he seemed like a nice guy. One she could see her friend appreciating. Though she figured that before she asked him anything, maybe it was best to talk to Harlow. She wasnât about to stick a guy on her that she didnât want. âHonestly, beggars canât be choosers, so Iâll eat anything that someone else makes for me. But, my favorite right now is probably enchiladas. My roommate makes an amazing vegetarian version and I have been secretly stocking the fridge with all the ingredients for days to push her to make them again.â | @nolan-jackson
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He kept his smile intact at her sarcastic remark, finding her wit and subtle jabs at him rather amusing. Zahid had always been drawn to women who could hold their own in a battle of wits, and this mysterious beauty was proving to be quite the formidable opponent. Despite her clear disinterest, he found himself even more intrigued by her. There was something about the way she carried herselfâconfident, poised, and unapologetically herselfâthat made him want to peel back all of her layers, along with her clothes. But that might also have a lot to do with the alcohol in his system. He was even bolder than usual.
"But where's the fun in that?" he quipped, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "I mean, if you really wanted me to leave, you would have said so outright. But instead, here you are keeping me company. I think, deep down, you're enjoying this just as much as I am." Was he pushing his luck? Yes. But he couldn't resist the urge to tease her a little more. It was like a game of cat and mouse, and he wanted to come out on top.
Zahid took another leisurely sip of his drink, his hungry gaze never wavering from her exquisite face. He thought he could detect flickers of annoyance in those mesmerizing eyes, but there was also a hint of intrigue and temptation. Or maybe he was just projecting his own irrepressible desires onto her. Either way, he wasn't ready to throw in the towel just yet. Not when the thrill of the chase still pumped through his veins.
"You know, I've been told I have a way with words," he said, leaning in a little closer. "But even I can't come up with a pick-up line that does justice to your beauty.â Oh, he was laying it on thick now. But what was that song? Blame it on the alcohol. He would just do that. Besides, he couldnât walk away now. He was already in too deep.
âAm I?â Ahalya raised an incredulous brow when he explained to her what he thought that she wanted. Rather than taking her words and her subtle attempts to express her disinterest in engaging with him further, he was supplying his own rationalizations. And she could have very well bid him a farewell and left the bar. Because after all, the friend she was supposed to meet wasnât coming. It wasnât like Ahalya was having a great time on her own and she wasnât about to go out and dance. She had all the reasons to make it extremely clear to him that no, she wasnât enjoying this as much as he was, by leaving.
But maybe it was the alcohol in her system that made her a touch more contentious that evening. She had been enjoying watching the line dancing before he appeared. And it sounded ridiculous to her that she would have to change her evening because Zahid took her rejection as a challenge to convince her. This was the only reason why she didnât get up and walk off. He was testing her patience, and maybe she was humoring him too much by continuing to engage. But she couldnât help her growing annoyance as he continued to insist. âAnd what else do you think Iâm feeling? Because apparently, I donât know.â
As he leaned in a touch closer, speaking quietly despite the music that was blaring in the background, she could smell the sweetness of the alcohol on his breath. He was clearly intoxicated and maybe that was to blame for his overly flirtatious nature. Though, she didnât think that the liquid courage was the only explanation for his insistence. Not speaking immediately, she listened to him patiently as he tried yet another pick-up line. One that not only was a touch too clichĂŠ for her taste, but one that seemed to highlight that this was not his first time hitting on a woman at the bar. Which she already suspected, but his words confirmed. After all, who else was telling him he had a way with words? Tutting her tongue, she shook her head. âToo bad. You should have come prepared. Why donât you think about some more? Alone. Over there.â She motioned her head towards the opposite side of the bar. | @zchidavci
A loud laugh escaped Kaira at Ahalya's declaration before shrugging, "I mean if you did--you'd my first and I'd be okay with that." She was kidding as well but with a friend like Ahalya it came easily. She felt like she could be herself with the other and for that she was quite thankful. It had been hard initially to find friends to connect with here in Covington but meeting Ahalya and allowing their friendship to grow naturally was one of the things Kaira appreciated the most. A nod in understand was her response to Ahalya's words about not indulging in daydrinking this time around. Kaira figured they could save that for a day where she could steal her friend away for the entire afternoon and she didn't need to return back to work at all. "You're allowed to play hooky from time to time Miss. Reddy," she grinned before shrugging, "besides--it's me, you can hardly say no to me right?" As the other led her towards the door, she shook her head when Ahalya spoke about being the one to buy their lunch. "I think not--I'm the one taking you out so don't even try to pull out your card at lunch," she warned the other before looping her arm through the others as they walked outside. "I am sadly still shopping around but the good thing about that is that all the options I've had so far have been great. So why don't you pick your favourite and we'll see if I've been there yet?" | @ahalyaxreddy
As Kaira played along, Ahalya did the same with a wink, bumping her shoulder with Kairaâs. âMy sentimentâs exactly, Ms. Joshi. Let me wine and dine you first, and weâll see where the afternoon takes us.â She couldnât believe that despite being neighbors, they hadnât managed to see each other in so long. Which was why she was incredibly grateful that Kaira came to see her and made a mental note that sheâd have to make a similar impromptu visit at some point down the line. âTrust me, if I could, I would. But we just had a problem with the payment system and the bills for this place wonât pay themselves. Thatâs the only reason Iâm not ditching. Otherwise, Iâd put you over work every time. Without a doubt.â Besides, Ahalya didnât need to be there on a daily basis to make sure things were running smoothly. Their manager should have been the one to handle that. But it was because her father had always been so hands on that Ahalya picked up the same exact nature. She too couldnât imagine leaving the store completely under someone elseâs care, because the last thing she wanted was something to go wrong and have her absence be the reason.
âToo bad for you I know everyone in this town and already have a little side deal. The wait staff all know that when I bring a friend, the bill is on me.â Though truthfully, Ahalya wasnât actually in a financial position to be covering the meals for all her friends every single time that they went out. Which wasnât something that she needed to divulge at this point. Linking her arm through Kairaâs, she led them towards Mystic Grill. Her staple and the place sheâd mentioned the first time that they met while Kaira was moving. âThe lunch special at Mystic Grill is a steal. The best bang for your buck in town.â Once they were seated at the restaurant and orders placed, she leaned against the tabletop and raised a brow. âNow that I can give you my undivided attention, whatâs new in the world of Kaira? Whatâve you been up to?â | @kairaxjoshi
Amelia laughed. âIâm learning that is exactly what I should have done as well but I will remember that for next time I decide to host something. It really shouldnât be this complicated.â Amelia wasnât fancy in the slightest but she wanted to appear to be. Maybe to impress her brother and his partner or maybe to impress herself and feel like those ten years away made her more sophisticated than it really did. Whatever the reason, she was glad for some help in this department because she would have been lost without it. After hearing the suggestion, she nodded her head and grabbed the bottle of roĹe and added it to her basket. âYou are a life saver, you know that right?â She said with a smile. âOkay, one more question and Iâll let you be on your way. What about desert options? Anything you recommend?â
Ahalya laughed when the other woman confessed that she too should have opted for bringing something, rather than hosting. Then again, Ahalya could understand wanting to do something special. She might not have the talent at putting together an elaborate meal, but she sure did appreciate when someone else did. Which was why now, though it was not a three-course dinner, she was personally invested in ensuring that Ameliaâs first attempt was a success. She preened a little at the compliment, before breaking into laughter and shaking her head. âTrust me, youâre giving me the chance to live out my dreams of being a hoity-toity wine connoisseur. But the secret is, Iâm just referring to the guide they gave me.â At the final question, Ahalya brightened significantly. âListen, I donât need a pamphlet for this. Desserts are my actual specialty.â Motioning for her to follow, Ahalya led her towards their bakery. âHow many people are we talking? And what are their sweet tolerance levels like?â | @robertsameliax
"It's a tough task, but I'll be honestâI love every minute of it," she said with a chuckle, because it was true. Greta loved being a part of Kat's life and she loved sharing a life with Lake and Emmy. So it didn't really feel like an effort, more so a part of her aspiring life goal: a happy family.
"I promise, it is an honor," she reassured, kindly. Greta loved Ahalya's creation for Lake and she liked to think that having the same artist work on a panel in her restaurant was a way of bringing her partner into her business too. "Having you do this brings a little bit of what Lake appreciated too into the restaurant." And Greta liked to be reminded of the love of her life on the daily routine too, when they were away. "She'll surely enjoy it," Greta chuckled, knowing Lake adored Ahalya.
"Color, yes," Greta nodded, reaching out for a little paper with a printed palette that was what they were using in the restaurant. It was different shades of black, white and yellow. "The yellows are gold accents," she handed Ahalya the color palette. "But you don't have to be restricted by this if you thing you can add other colors that compliment," she explained. "I can also get you any material you requireâgold leafs, whatever you think it's going to add to it. Now, as for style, food itself will be very modern in presentation, with traditional and homey flavors."
Greta remembered something then. "In fact, give me a second," she said, quickly going behind the wall to retrieve a little bag with a few food container. "I actually would like for you to try the foodâwell some of what I'm envisioning for it, and get a sense of the flavor experience I'm trying to bring. I think the art should talk directly to the food in here, you know? But I'm super open for the style you want to suggest." She smiled at Ahalya. "Just heat it for ten in the oven and it should be good to go."
Ahalya truly did admire Gretaâs ability to balance the various aspects of her life while also building up her successful business. Despite the challenges that she was sure the blonde encountered along the way. âI donât know how you have enough hours in the day,â she noted honestly. Because she was trying her best to foray back into her passion while balancing work at the store. And it was proving to be more challenging than she expected. And sheâd pretty much put her entire life on hold when it came time for her fatherâs treatment in the past three years. There had been a number of mistakes she made.
Ahalyaâs broke into a grateful and warm smile at the mention of Lake. She was immensely grateful to everyone in the town that gave her the opportunity to actually use the skills she learned, and Lake was one of the first. Of course it helped that she absolutely adored the books that the author put out. But more than that. It was rather heartwarming to hear of Gretaâs desire to have her fiancĂŠeâs influence reflected in her business. As a die hard romantic, Ahalya couldnât help but fawn over them, just a little. Even if she tried to do so internally to avoid scaring Greta off. They didnât know each other well enough yet for Ahalya to unleash her full fangirling. âThough Iâll be honest, I donât know if the artwork I did for Lake would match the vibe youâre describing.â
Taking the color palette that Greta offered her, Ahalya figured that it was a pretty standard design. Modern and crisp. She couldnât commit to what the final design would look like just yet, but she paid close attention to each of the details that Greta shared, noting them down in the pad that she brought with her. âIâm thinking of having something more three-dimensional,â Ahalya began, seeing as the walls were so big that adding texture would surely add. âEither adding actual physical pieces or using plaster and paint.â
As Greta disappeared, Ahalya surveyed the space once more, trying to get fuller feel for how the colors could fit onto the two massive walls in the reception. Pulling out her phone, she took a few quick photos, though she assumed that Greta would allow her back if she needed it. The chef returned with a bag of food and Ahalya grew excited. Not only because it would help her design process, but also because she loved being fed. That too by a professional. For free! âThank you, I canât believe I get to try the food before youâre even open. I feel so special.â Gushing aside, she took the bag and asked the other question on her mind. âOut of curiosity, what made you want to open a place in Covington?â | @chefgretamorrison
Ultimately, what everyone always wanted in life was to be understood. Or so Ozan's therapist had mentioned a handful of times in the past year. When he thought back to the night that he met Ahalya, Ozan always went back to those words that he hadn't really understood until that point. He had always thought that his biggest struggle for moving on was the fact that he, very clearly, had an addictive personality. He'd never really stopped to think why he'd started down the path that had led him into the bottomless pit of sorrow that his life had been for his teenage life and all of his twenties. His addiction had always been the pillar of his life, to the point where nothing else even mattered, not even human connections.
One night stands and hook-ups had been his bread and butter years ago. He'd dated people on-and-off, but the connections were always more physical. When he'd decided to sit next to the gorgeous woman sitting at the bar that night, he'd merely done it to feel less pathetic about needing to drink after a particularly hard day for his father. Ozan had become a caretaker overnight and despite it being years since his father's diagnose, it was hard not to feel like he couldn't breathe on particularly bad days. Seeing a loved one like that, especially the only parental figure he'd ever had would never be easy. But when he and Ahalya began talking, he felt understood. He felt like he could tell her just how hard it was to be the strong one, to not let his smile falter while also being aware of how bad things really were. She'd lived it too, and there was no need to explain things to her. It was more an emotional connection that had led to their hookup, which was certainly something new for Ozan.
"Tough luck with men? We're a terrible species, but I try to break the mold a little bit." Ozan murmured playfully, clearly trying to ease them into a less intense conversation. Although that wasn't exactly easy to do with all the details that they knew about each other. He offered her a small smile though, almost surprised that she was offering to draw him. "Am I about to become one of your muses? I feel like our relationship is escalating very quickly, you know?" He teased. He wasn't Ozan Bulut if he didn't turn everything into a joke. If there was a way to break the tension, it was to make a fool out of himself. And truthfully as surprised as he was to see Ahalya now, he was happy to see her. Again, as mortifying it was to think of how much she knew about him; the parts of him that he tried to hide from his closest friends, Ozan thought that she understood him. To the point where they both would probably not bring up the actually serious topics of that night.
"I did want to see you again, by the way. I mean, I felt like...we talked so much that night. It'd be good to talk again if either of us ever needed to vent or simply to hang out." He didn't want to make things awkward but he also didn't want her to think that they couldn't be friends or whatever they wanted to be. He'd enjoyed their conversations, he'd enjoyed feeling like he wasn't alone against the world. "By the way, should I pose? What do you need me to do?" Ozan asked with a wide smile, proceeding to test a few, silly poses for her.
Ahalya was far from a closed book. For the most part, she revealed her worries to the people close to her. She leaned on the support systems sheâd built for herself. Yet hearing about her father had shaken her world to its core. And though she otherwise relied on other people, for the first time, she felt the weight of her family falling on her shoulders. Watching the way her mother broke down and could barely hold herself together forced Ahalya into the role of caregiver for not one, but two parents. It had been challenging and truthfully, tiring. Yet to confess that to the people closest to her almost seemed akin to admitting defeat. That her fatherâs diagnosis had gotten the best of her, and she was not enough. It was much easier to bury the exhaustion, the resentment, and the hopelessness and put on a brave front. She might not have otherwise minded sharing her insecurities and inadequacies with a stranger like Ozan. But there was something unique about that time in her life that she wished to hide from. Â
As the initial shock of seeing him wore off and he continued to try and ease the awkwardness ( though maybe she was the only one who felt it ), Ahalya lightened up as well. They were still practically strangers. In other ways, Ozan knew more about her than some of her closest confidants. The stress in her shoulders from the initial surprise eased and the amusement reappeared in her eyes as he continued to crack jokes. She was pretty sure heâd done the same thing that night when they met at the bar. Found a way to lighten the mood enough that she felt comfortable sharing with a stranger. The alcohol in her system had helped with that as well.
âNo comment on that. I have to ask the women in your life if they agree,â she said with an amused shake of her head as he claimed to be different from other guys. At least slightly. Granted, maybe it was because she knew more about him that she could agree. Otherwise, she might have pegged him as very much the same as most of the men that she knew. Not that that was inherently bad. It wasnât like she had anything against men. It was just that lately, her track record hadnât been that great. Rolling her eyes playfully as his jokes continued, she waited for him to take his seat. Ironic considering that by regular standards, or at least hers, their relationship had escalated a lot already. âIs it? Well, the altar is still there, and I already thought you were the groom so,â she joked back with a shrug as he took his seat.
Studying both the scene behind him and his features for a second, she began to sketch out an outline on the blank canvas. In the meantime, he was striking strange poses. âYou can just sit still,â she instructed with a laugh. As her eyes danced between the canvas and the man sitting before her, she thought about his words. Sheâd been mortified, yes. Yet there was a part of her that she didnât need to explain to him, courtesy of having spilled her guts the first time they met. âStrange as it is running into you here, I agree,â she said tentatively, eyes glued to the canvas and glad that she had the distraction. âIt was a relief to get a few things off my chest that night. Some things I probably wouldnât have ever said. And I guess I never got to tell you,â her gaze met his with a small smile. âMy father is in remission now.â | @ozanxbulut
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Do you know her? Since the moment Ellie walked in with a purpose and cashed in on her bid, it'd been the same question on everybody's mind. Along with, how did he know her? where did the two meet? what was the deal behind her all out bidding war with his ex to gain his affections? All valid questions, with all valid answers. Though, he wasn't exactly in the mood to give any of them. Because, if anyone should be asking or hear them first, it should be Tess. She's the one who seemed more confused out of anybody. And truthfully, she had a right to be. When they spoke the other day, he failed to mention Ellie's existence. Mostly because he hadn't gotten the chance but also because, it wasn't the right time. Nor was that time now.
But ready or not, Ryan would be forced to face Ellie one way or another. And worse than that, he was required to sit through two fucking hours of whatever bullshit she swept in her web. For the moment though, he was stalling. And what better way to do that than with Ahalya? Who never ceased to entertain him and who could successfully help get his mind off anything. "She's my ex wife." he explained to her, rather flatly. "Or so, I thought our divorce was final a few years ago. Evidently, it's not. It's a long story though, I'd rather not bore you with the details." Frankly, even if she insisted - the details were a little muddled, even for him. He wasn't sure what went wrong between the time he signed his name on the dotted lines and they were routinely delivered through priority mail. Someone fucked up somewhere and their mistake was costing him a headache, and the rekindling of his first love. Because, he can't imagine Tess will want anything to do with him after she learns what he failed to mention the last time they spoke.
"No shit, really?" Rather than retrace the steps of his marital woes, Ryan was more interested in learning how his boxing lessons came in handy. Had Ahalya done them all a favor and put Renzie out of his misery once and for all? One could only hope. "I fully intend to take you up on that offer and I expect a full play by play over these drinks. What do you say, you and I go on a bar crawl next week? Any day you're free, text me and I'm there." | @ahalyaxreddy
Truthfully, Ahalya was half expecting Ryan to brush it off and not give her a proper answer. There were plenty of times in the past that sheâd done the same. Though he had been a great source of validation and comfort during the harder points of her fatherâs treatment, there were somethings that she had been unwilling to share with anyone. Especially those who knew her. Perhaps she worried vocalizing them would make her feelings too real. Or maybe she was worried of judgment. Ryan, of anyone, would not have judged. Rationally, she knew that. But she had still held her tongue about many things. So while her question had been harmless, his admission surprised her. Both because of its substance and the fact that he shared it.
âI never knew you were married. Or had been,â Ahalya responded. And though he did not wish to get into the details, it was hard not to be intrigued about what happened. Then again, it was one of those things that Ahalya knew better than to ask for details on. Not only because it was none of her business ( after all, she was nosey ), but because his demeanor made it pretty clear that he was not looking for a bitching session. He was not looking to get into details. His words matched his expression. âWell, if you need me to pretend to have an emergency to spare you the two hours, or help cut it short, let me know.â After all, it wasnât like she had anything else to do other than watch other peopleâs dates this evening. She gave him a small smile, doing her best to improve his sour mood.
As the crowds dispersed, heading towards their respective dates, Ahalya jumped on the suggestion. Sheâd treated Ryan to a similar bar crawl after sheâd found out the news that her father was doing better. Harlowâs brownies had just been a happy bonus. âDone. Though this time, youâre singing Sexy Back with me during the karaoke. Iâm not going up there alone.â And this was one promise that sheâd insist on, even if the details of his divorce she could forgo. | @ryanparrish
âSo whoâs the other roommate?â Devika wasnât sure the answer would impact her decision overly much â she needed out of her current excuse for an apartment, and sheâd come to realize that she needed a better balance between having space to herself and isolating herself. Sure, she had everyone at work and the station, and she was starting to make friends â but she liked the idea of coming home to friends, too. And obviously, having just met Ahalya, and not even met the potential other roommate, they werenât there yet. She rather suspected they could get there, though â she liked Ahalyaâs decisiveness, just like sheâd enjoyed talking to her in their initial conversation. âThat might be the best review Iâve gotten all week â Does Not Give Off Crazy Vibes. Thanks! You also do not give me crazy vibes,â she added with a grin. Because while Ahalya was definitely interviewing her, Devika was interviewing her, too, a little â she didnât want to pack up all her things, again, only to be unhappy with the move. âI donât have all that much, either, but least we wonât be knocking things over,â she observed, dutifully following Ahalya inside. Even if she hadnât pointed it out, Devikaâs gaze wouldâve been drawn to the kitchen. She was used to kitchenettes, and no space at all, and this was definitely not that. âOh, itâs gorgeous,â she enthused. âThe things I could cook âŚâ and with a well-stocked fridge, too â this was pretty much a fairy tale to Devika. âIâd be happy to make enough to share, especially if youâre supplying the actual ingredients. If I moved in, of course.â | @ahalyaxreddy
Ahalya had been overjoyed when Reyhan suggested this place for her to move in when she was desperately trying to get her life back on track. One that was set by her and not by the sickness that had overwhelmed her family for three years. But the second that her former roommates vacated, claiming that they were leaving to go soul searching in Alaska, she was left scrambling to find a way to continue to make rent. And for what it was worth, the apartment itself was gorgeous. She was not overstating the positives for the sake of luring Devika into renting. Of course her next question was the hardest one to answer. The one point of this otherwise gorgeous apartment that stuck out like a sore thumb. Their other roommate. The one who was now on the lease unfortunately and Ahalya could not get rid of. âUm, heâs on the news actually. You might recognize him. But heâs usually gone in the evenings because he has to tape.â She was not about to give her too many details because Ahalya did not want to scare her away. And for all her huffing, Zahid was at least a clean roommate that pulled his weight around the apartment. âHe is a decent roommate. He does say some stupid things, so feel free to ignore him 95% of the time. Thatâs what I do.â
Her mood changed for the better as they continued to discuss the apartment and the prospect of Devika moving in with them. From their brief conversation and now this brief meeting, Ahalya was already growing fond of the woman whose personality seemed to mesh with her own well. âHonestly, when you answer a random ad for a roommate, not crazy is all you can really ask for.â Giving her a moment to fully appreciate the kitchen, Ahalya could not help her excitement when the other woman shared that she could cook. It should have been obvious in their varying reactions to the kitchen of course. Devika seemed to admire the space with wonder and enthusiasm. Ahalya was rather indifferent. âA promise of free cooked meals, Iâd be an idiot to turn you away now. So, come, Iâll show you the rest and by the end, hopefully Iâll have turned that âifâ into a âwhen.ââ | @devikaavyas
"Wow, she is my favorite. Who's giving you all this intel? I need to talk to my manager about these sources." Dior mused with the widest smile in her face. She loved that Ahalya was so supportive, it felt like they understood each other in so many ways and she was incredibly important to Dior. No matter how busy they were, they would show up for one another. Even if Dior had hundreds of shows in a year, every time that Ahalya showed up to one, she still was incredibly happy to see her. Some times even made sure to dedicate a song or two to her friend. It was nowhere near enough for what she'd done with the cover art for their album anyway.
She chuckled at her next words. "You've been doing a lot of weddings recently, too. How's that going? Ugh, I love a wedding. Everyone's always so happy. Do you get to do cute couple portraits?" She asked as she leaned into Ahalya, knocking her head against hers playfully. "You know, the only wedding I've ever played was Jameson's forever ago now that I think about it. I sang their first song together, I had a totally different band back then." She admitted before she laughed, giving Ahalya a soft squeeze before she began leading her away from the stage to get some water. "I am starving and need like three bottled waters, come on. Did you have dinner yet? We need to catch up."
Ahalya pressed one fingers to her lips. âThatâs a secret Iâll never tell,â she did her best to put on the infamous voice from one of her favorite shows growing up. When she thought about the glitz and glamour associated with New York and fantasized about what it might be like to move. She never did, of course. Because when push came to shove, Ahalya never seemed to have the courage to really leave Covington. Nor did she think she needed to. Dior, on the other hand, had. Theyâd known each other for a while and when Ahalya learned that she planned to move to the Big Apple, it had surprised her. In a lot of ways, Dior felt more grounded in Covington than even Ahalya was. She went to school just as close by and her family attachments were just as strong. If there was one person that Ahalya had always imagined staying in their hometown, it was Dior. And yet even she had ventured beyond the perimeter of Covington, getting a taste for the world beyond. Though, the fact that Dior stood before her now might have indicated that the grass was not greener on the other side.
Selfishly, Ahalya was grateful when she had returned. And not only because sheâd been an unexpected source of comfort and inspiration for the artist over the past few years. âHonestly, itâs magical. Itâs incredible to be surrounded by so much positivity and happiness all the time. Itâs been doing wonders for my creativity actually. And the live painting has been so rewarding.â It was why she couldnât complain about the work. Because while it was a lot to balance both her responsibilities at the store with her desire to get back into her art, they were both fulfilling in their own respects. And they were both giving her life the sense of purpose that sheâd desperately craved. âUm, Ms. Dior Cartier,â the nickname was one she had given Dior years ago, when Ahalya announced this was the closest she would get to the two luxury brands. Linking her arm through the otherâs, Ahalya continued. âYou donât know me if you think I donât already have planned our own little after party. And you also donât know me if you donât think I will be requesting a copy of that wedding video so I can show you off to all these wedding planners. Imagine, so talented from such a young age.â | @dior-carter
Lee gave a soft chuckle at the line, though he was, admittedly, glad to hear it was something sheâd come up with on the spot. âI donât know, personally Iâve always felt a slogan comes off a little ⌠impersonal.â Corporate, really. But saying as much felt a little harsh this early in the morning, especially since Lee knew there were plenty of smaller business that did use a slogan or jingle to stick in their customersâ minds. But that was for advertisements on TV, or the radio. If you werenât going to go that route, Lee had always figured individual customer service was the way to go. Then again, maybe he shouldnât really be talking â heâd been a customer always, and actually involved in retail, never. âI do like that one, though.â And he didâ for all he was entirely unsure of its necessity. He certainly didnât mind that she wasnât rushing him to the items he needed and dispatching him to the door with equal speed. For all heâd ventured out so early, there really wasnât any urgency to his return home. His hunger would hold for a longer shopping trip. âIâm actually set on eggs,â Lee admitted with a rueful smile. He had, perhaps, been over enthusiastic in buying a full dozen when heâd bought everything else â but at least he didnât have to worry about those spoiling at quite the same rapid pace as his other ingredients. âItâs everything else I need.â | @ahalyaxreddy
âReally? Even when it is set to a fun little tune? I always get the jingles for stuck in my head. Do you remember 800-588-2300 EMPIRE! Today?â Maybe not. Lee had come into the store to find his groceries and on his way. Maybe he had come this early in the morning in the hopes of avoiding the crowds and being spared the obligatory conversation that came in the South. Yet Ahalya, naively enough, might well have been ruining that well laid plan by turning him into her own personal focus group. She wasnât dense and could pick up when her presence was unwelcome. Sensing nothing of the sort from him just yet, she continued to prattle on about her ideas for a slogan with the man that already expressed that he was not too fond of them.
âWhat about those advertisements where the entire family is involved and they are giving you those plastic smiles and the 'save me' eyes?â Urban Harvest needed neither a new slogan nor a jingle. Their business had been thriving ever since the news article that was published well before Ahalya was even born. A feel-good story was the best publicity for any establishment. Since the most important ingredient was covered, Ahalya thought a bit more about what one needed to make a perfect. . . well a perfect anything, to be honest. At which point she looked at Lee sheepishly. âYou know, I talk a great game, but I actually have no idea how to make a proper omelet. So either you let me know what you need. Or, if youâre feeling lucky, we play our own little version of Covingtonâs Chopped.â | @leeabhrams
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Harlow had been lounging comfortably on her sofaâcontent to stay in for a quiet night at home. But her peace was abruptly shattered when Ahalya began banging on her, pot and wooden, scaring the bejesus out of her. "Ah!" she yelpedâplugging her earsânearly jumping out of her skin at the loud clanging. She shot her best friend an exasperated look. "Give a girl some warning next time! You're going to give me a heart attack."Â Â
Although she loved Ahalya dearly, the thought of being dragged out to a crowded club held little appeal. She would have much preferred to spend the evening in her pajamas, watching sappy rom-coms or better yet read something. Maybe she would be a little more enthusiastic if a certain teacher would be making an appearance, but since she knew he would never bring himself to a club, she would much rather stay home. But she knew her best friend wouldn't take no for an answer. With a dramatic sigh, Harlow hauled herself off the sofa. "I'm going, I'm going," she whimpered, before even more banging could make a reappearance. Rifling through her closet, she pulled out dress after dress, only to have each rejected.Â
âWho are we trying to get to ravish me?" She muttered under her breath before settling on a slinky black number that hugged every curve. Paired with smoky eyeshadow and red lips, it would certainly turn heads. Though no one's approval mattered to her except a certain someone. Slipping into the dress, Harlow had to admit she felt rather alluring. She gave an exaggerated twirl. "Will this do, oh wise fashion guru? Or should I go full bombshell in latex and leather?" She joked, striking a silly pose.
Inertia was a dangerous thing. It had marked the last decade of her life since sheâd returned to Covington after graduation. Sheâd settled into a comfortable routine, surrounded by her family, her friends, her fiancĂŠ. Ahalya had never bothered to challenge herself because she didnât need to. Not to say that going out on the town was a challenge exactly, but it was the type of adventure that she needed to deviate from the routine that sheâd otherwise embraced and allowed to consume her life.
And truth be told, there were times that she wondered if the same hadnât happened with Harlow. Though for very different reasons, her and Harlow had experienced heartbreak around the same time. Harlow had also receded into her shell, settling into her own comfortable routine. Ahalya would not be so hypocritical as to tell her to put herself out there without doing the same. Hence the unannounced visit and the silly urgency with which Ahalya rushed her best friend.
âThe only people getting heart attacks tonight will be the eligible bachelors of Covington when they see you all dressed up,â Ahalya insisted, settling into the bed with her feet propped up as Harlow rummaged through her closet to find the perfect number for the evening. There was nothing more fun than playing dress up when she wasnât the one who was doing the dressing up. And when she finally did appear in an outfit that passed Ahalyaâs scrutinizing standards, the older woman brightened immediately.
Sitting up, she attempted a whistle, though it didnât work. Which was why next she tried to roll her âRâ in compliment but ended up blowing a raspberry instead. âThis is why, Har. This is why I can never be a construction worker. I canât even gas up my friends.â But her failed at attempts at complimenting aside, she twirled her finger in the air to ask Harlow to do a little spin so that she could take her in in all her glory. âYou look spectacular. Maybe even more than ravish me energy. It is giving, take me in the bathroom because going home will take too long. When did you get this and where the hell have you been hiding it all these day?â | @harlowmiller
He smirked as the mysterious woman beside him deflected his attempt at an introduction. Playing hard to get? He loved a good challenge. And she was too beautiful for him to walk away from. Leaning casually against the bar, Zahid studied her intently as she tried to ignore himâtaking in every detail of her delicate features and poised demeanor. Despite acting aloof, there was an undeniable allure about her that drew him in.Â
"My apologies, I didn't mean to assume," he repliedâhis accent tinging his words. "It's just that a beautiful woman sitting alone at a bar warrants some concern, no? But I understand the desire for a lowkey evening." These were just words for the most part, yet there was also some truth to it. The woman was gorgeous. She had no business sitting alone at a bar late at night. As a gentleman, it was his duty to provide her with some companyâwhether she wanted it or not.
He took a slow sip of his drink, eyes never leaving her face. Was he annoying her? Probably. But if she truly had a problem with him, she would have to come out with it. Until then, he would be staying put. "Well, since we're both here for a quiet night, would you object to some pleasant company? I promise I don't bite," he added with a charming smile. "That is, unless you ask nicely." Oh, he was definitely laying it on thick, but he had to try and chip away at her nonchalant facade. He suspected her disinterest was a mere act. Beneath the surface, he sensed she was a fun person to be aroundâsomeone with passion and fire. It stirred something within himself as well, a growing desire that tightened in his pants. He shifted on his stool, wondering what it would take to unleash the vixen hidden within her.
He was persistent. As a man of his nature would be. She did not need to study him closely to know that he was the type that did not face rejection regularly. The slight twinge of an accent paired with his build and stature. Yes, Zahid as he introduced himself, was undoubtedly a man that either did not know how to take no for an answer, or simply never heard it. Which was why his actions not matching his words was unsurprising. As was his continued presence by her side even when she had done her best to politely redirect his attention away from her. His eyes remained on her while hers danced around the bar, noting the many other beautiful women at the bar who might have been more receptive to his advances.
âWhile I appreciate the concern,â Ahalya began with a hint of sarcasm in her tone, clearly unappreciative. âYou donât need to worry about my evening.â And though it was said as an assurance, Ahalya took a breath in and wondered if this would be enough to send him on his way. Perhaps on another night she would have been flattered at the attention. Maybe even tonight sheâd go home and, upon reflection, feel gassed up that getting all dressed up to go out hadnât been in complete vain. But all it took was one look at him and the overly confident way in which he approached her for Ahalya to understand his intentions. Â
And he proved that her impression of him was right with his very next flirtatious statement. In one breath he claimed he too sought a quiet night. In the very next, he offered up an innuendo that suggested anything but quiet. She did her best to suppress the eye roll that felt instinctual, hiding her scoff behind the rim of her drink. They both knew the answer to his question. While she might not have made it explicit, her body language clearly indicated that she did object to his company. He was playing dumb, and they both knew it. Which was why Ahalya instead angled her body towards him, placing her drink down on the counter. âWhat else would you do if I asked nicely? Would you leave me alone?â | @zchidavci
