cleo

ᴀ/ɴ: ᴛʜɪs ɪs ᴀ ᴘʀᴏʟᴏɢᴜᴇ ᴛᴏ “ʏᴏᴜʀ ʙᴇsᴛғʀɪᴇɴᴅ ɪs ᴊᴇᴀʟᴏᴜs ᴏғ ᴛʜᴇ ɴᴇᴡ ɢᴜʏ” ʙʏ ɴᴏʀᴀ ᴀsᴍʀ (ғᴛ. ᴍᴀɪsᴜɴᴅᴇʀɢʀᴏᴜɴᴅᴀsᴍʀ) ᴡʜᴇɴ ʟɪsᴛᴇɴɪɴɢ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ ᴀᴜᴅɪᴏ, ɴᴏʀᴀ sᴀʏs ᴀ ʟɪɴᴇ “ɪ ᴅᴏɴ’ᴛ ᴄᴀʀᴇ ɪғ ᴏᴛʜᴇʀ ᴘᴇᴏᴘʟᴇ ʜᴀᴅ ᴀ ᴛʜɪɴɢ ғᴏʀ ᴍᴇ, ɪ ᴅᴏɴ’ᴛ ᴄᴀʀᴇ. ɪ ɴᴇᴠᴇʀ ᴅɪᴅ” ᴀɴᴅ ɪᴛ ɪɴᴛʀɪɢᴜᴇᴅ ᴍᴇ. ɪ ʙᴇɢᴀɴ ᴛᴏ ᴇxᴘʟᴏʀᴇ ɪᴅᴇᴀs ᴀɴᴅ ᴄᴏɴsᴇǫᴜᴇɴᴄᴇs ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴍɪɢʜᴛ’ᴠᴇ ʟᴇᴅ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜɪs ᴍᴏᴍᴇɴᴛ. ᴡʜʏ ᴡᴏᴜʟᴅ ʟɪsᴛᴇɴᴇʀ, ᴏʀ ɪɴ ᴛʜɪs ᴄᴀsᴇ, ɴᴀʙɪ, ʙʀɪɴɢ ᴛʜɪs ᴜᴘ? ᴀʀᴇ ᴛʜᴇʀᴇ ᴜɴsᴀɪᴅ ғᴇᴇʟɪɴɢs ʙᴇʜɪɴᴅ ᴛʜɪs ᴏʙsᴇʀᴠᴀᴛɪᴏɴ? ᴡʜᴏ’s ᴛʜɪs ᴏᴛʜᴇʀ? ᴡʜʏ ᴡᴏᴜʟᴅ ɴᴀʙɪ ᴀssᴜᴍᴇ ɴᴏʀᴀ ʀᴇᴄɪᴘʀᴏᴄᴀᴛᴇᴅ ғᴇᴇʟɪɴɢs ғᴏʀ ᴛʜᴇsᴇ sᴀɪᴅ ‘ᴏᴛʜᴇʀ ᴘᴇᴏᴘʟᴇ’? ᴛʜᴜs ʙɪʀᴛʜᴇᴅ ᴛʜɪs ᴘʀᴏʟᴏɢᴜᴇ. sᴏᴍᴇ ᴛʜɪɴɢs ᴍɪɢʜᴛ ɴᴏᴛ ᴀʟɪɢɴ ᴇɴᴏᴜɢʜ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴛʜᴇ ᴀᴜᴅɪᴏ ᴛᴏ ʙᴇ ᴄᴏɴsɪᴅᴇʀᴇᴅ ᴀ ᴘʀᴏʟᴏɢᴜᴇ, ʙᴜᴛ ᴏʜ ᴡᴇʟʟ. ᴛʜᴀɴᴋ ʏᴏᴜ ᴀʟᴡᴀʏs ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴏsᴇ ᴡʜᴏ ʀᴇᴀᴅ ɪᴛ :)

The night was cool, Nabi scratched a nonexistent itch at the back of her head with one hand, the other tightly gripping a mini bouquet of lilies. After 10 minutes of pacing back and forth, or sitting on the curb of the sidewalk with a nervous knee bounce, she finally gained the courage to walk in.

She slipped her shoes off at the door, trying to be discreet although the crinkle of the bouquet wrapping said otherwise. Nabi noticed the dimly lit apartment, a small lamp or two on in the living room, while the fluorescent kitchen lights beamed out into the open.

“Nora?” She called out.

Bringing the bouquet closer to her chest she approached the kitchen, where once distant voices grew loud and clear. Like two deer in headlights, Thalia and Nora look over at Nabi.

“Hey you’re home!” Nora smiled

“And with beautiful flowers, hm?” Thalia smirked teasingly.

Nabi snapped back into present time look down at her flowers.

“Oh, yeah.” She scoffed

“So, who’s the lucky guy?” Thalia walked over to Nabi, holding her free hand.

her eyes widened, “what guy?”

“Obviously the one who gave you those flowers.”

Nabi's gaze flickered past Thalia, meeting curious doe eyes of Nora, who also waited for her response.

“Oh,” she chuckled nervously.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to put you on the blast like that. I just cheese over romantic gestures like this.”

Nora then walked over, towering closely over Nabi . She shuffled slightly, trying to create space between them. She then watched him bend down to stuff his nose into the lilies. At this proximity, he was bound to hear the loud thump against her chest that was her heart trying to call out to him.

“They’re beautiful.” He said.

“I should put them in water.” She walked hastily past them, opening and closing cabinet doors.

“I should probably head out too. It’s getting late, don’t wanna be dozing off during lecture tomorrow.” Thalia grabbed her coat, waving off Nabi.

Nabi smiled weakly, watching Nora trail behind her out the door.

20 minutes later, the lilies slept in a cool ice bath in the now dim kitchen. Nora returned from walking Thalia back to her dorm, knocking on Nabi's door.

“I’m back! May I come in?”

“Yeah, come in.”

He gently closed the door behind him, a soft scoff escaping his lips, finding Nabi sitting at her vanity with a stiff and focused expression.

“What?” She spoke between her teeth, her voice flat.

“Nothing- you just got a little..” he chuckled, circling his finger around his face.

“You’re hilarious.”

She reached for the damp towel, carefully wiping off the clay from her face. Nora on the other, sat beside her, watching with an amused yet curious look.

She sighed, “What do you think?”

“Beautiful.”

Nabi simply laughed in response. Perhaps she would've overthought the situation at hand. Though, compliments from him were frequent- given to anyone who crossed paths with Nora. That was just the kind of person he was.

She slipped under the covers, patting the empty space beside her. Nora followed suit, lying down next to her.

“This is nice. It’s been a while since we’ve done this.”

“Yeah, well..."

Nabi slapped a pillow on him.

“Hey!” Nora laughed, hugging the pillow to his chest.

“Yeah well, I supposed this last year of college has us pretty busy with work, and other stuff..” She replied.

“No sugar-coating there. It’s definitely been exhausting, but it should all be worth in the end right?”

“Right.”

Sudden silence filled the room.

“Then what?”

“Then, I guess we find work for the next 40 years, retire, and die.”

“Nora..”

He noticed her shift in tone- her voice now at a whisper.

“Then…I don’t know. I guess that’s when I can finally start my life. Working a 9 to 5 job, paying off my student debt and other bills after I move into my own place. Maybe, get a new car to replace that old ‘06 Corolla. You know, the one I been driving around since high school.”

“Sounds exciting.” She responded flatly, trying to mask the weight of the conversation.

“Yeah well, being an adult is going to suck, but none of that will really matter when I'm sharing it with someone else. And maybe its too early to think of kids, but I’d be lying if i said the thought hadn’t crossed my mind.”

Nabi couldn’t help the sting in her eyes, her lips curling into a smile despite herself.

“Sorry...I didn’t mean to get so-“

“Sounds like a wonderful life." She whispered, her voice soft but sincere.

Nora smiled, the bed creaked as he stood up.

"We should get some sleep. Don't want to fall asleep in the middle of class."

They exchanged 'Good night's' and 'sleep well'. And with the sound of her door being shut, Nabi fell asleep in her once warm bed, now turned cold.

-

Nabi found getting ready difficult the next morning. The previous night replayed in her mind in a continuous loop. She'd wince at the memory a couple times throughout the morning, while she brushed her teeth and ate her cereal.

Eventually, the self doubt found its way to Nabi. Was she in the right to have that intimate conversation with him? Was it too much? Was there more to their interaction?

"Nabi."

Her eyes shifted from the concrete below into pools of chocolate brown eyes. She only waved in response with her lips curved into a smile, unsure of how things would feel between.

"Here." He handed her a can of coffee. Nabi took it, their fingers brushing ever so slightly.

"Thought you could use a pick-me-up for the lecture."

She smiled, "Thanks."

He smiled back, "So, on the way here, I was scrolling mindlessly on reels, per usual, and came across something called' Brookies'.... its like a Cookie and a Brownie in one."

Nabi walked along side of him, listening to him with full intent- grateful, there was no awkward tension. Did this mean it was all just casual for him?

"...I was thinking maybe after midterms, Nabi?"

She was snapped back into present time at the mention of her name.

"Yeah, no, definitely."

Nora chuckled softly, patting her head as they walked down the steps into lecture hall.

"Nora!" Thalia waved while standing up to greet the two.

"Thalia."

"Hi Nabi." She smiled.

"Hey Thalia."

The three stood in the aisle, clearly a disturbance to the other students, swerving around them. Nabi stepped behind Nora, creating more space for the incoming people- and for her own discomfort. To be caught between a conversation with her roommate, who she might be in love with, and her classmate, who might be dating him. It was for the best.

"I saved you a seat, but I didn't realize you and Nabi came together and probably want to sit together as well."

"Oh, that's very kind but-"

"Actually, I had my eye on that seat over there, but I know Nora prefers a more, direct view, so this works out perfectly." Nabi interrupted, her tone as sincere as she could muster.

"Are you sure? I could move, so you two can-" Thalia frantically began packing up her bags before Nabi gently tapped her arm.

"No, seriously its fine! I think we'll be okay." Nabi joked.

"I'll see you both after class."

Her backpack thumped as it hit the floor when she finally sat down across the room. Nabi looked around, flashing a friendly smile at the guy who sat next to her before looking down at her textbook.

"I would've taken the seat, if I were you."

"Excuse me?"

"Shit, sorry. didn't mean to stare. It's just hard not to notice when 3 people are standing in the middle of the aisle."

Nabi's furrowed brows softened. "Oh.."

"She the girlfriend?"

"No. I don't think so."

"I see...Are you?"

"What- No-" She turned her whole body towards the stranger to see who she was speaking to. A guy who slouched in his chair, jet-black strands of hair peaking out his hood, his ear phone wires dangling down.

"Not that it's any of your business, but no. We're not involved. Just friends," She continued.

"You're right, it's not my business. Sorry. Just wanted make sure you weren't with him, so I could tell you, that I think you're pretty."

Nabi looked at him incredulously, as this stranger had just complimented her and went on to look down at his phone, nonchalantly.

"Thank you. I guess."

"You're welcome." he replied.

There was a brief pause.

"What's your name?"

"Mai. Yours?"

"Nabi."

"That's beautiful."

Nabi scoffed. She couldn't understand this guy.

"Is this your tactic for getting girls?"

"Sorry?"

"Oh, my bad. Girls or guys."

He smiled, whilst a smile escaped his lips. Now that Nabi had a better look at Mai, she realized how attractive he actually was.

"No, this isn't my usual approach. A little unorthodox, don't you think?"

"Just a little."

"Nah, seriously I apologize if I came on too strong. See, I have this really bad habit of letting the intrusive thoughts out when I'm nervous."

"Paha. You're just doing too much at this point."

"No really, I mean it. It's not just around people I find attractive. And, not limited to just spouting out nonsense either, It's also, really bad stuttering, which I should really get checked."

Nabi laughed, "Alright. I believe you, Mai."

A particular AU headcannon I daydream about is after the break up Alex still ends up going to New York, and listener stays in London finishing up their degree in Law, but out of pure spontaneity decides to leave law behind and continue on a path towards modeling, especially since Alex had been very vocal about them being photogenic, whether or not it was ignited because they were together, didn’t matter, listener is so determined to make it as a model, for what reason, I don’t know, to spite Alex and his decision to still leave for New York and possibly have moved on quicker than anticipated ? With Natalie, a girl who he claimed not to worry about ??

🎧 ғᴀᴋᴇ ᴘʟᴀsᴛɪᴄ ᴛʀᴇᴇs ʀᴀᴅɪᴏʜᴇᴀᴅ ↻ ◁ ɪɪ ▷ ↺

.・。.・゜✭・.

Once Andie's head made contact with the feathery pillow, her eyelids immediately shut.

In her wildest dreams, the events that occurred that day replayed in a more magical and imaginative way. She plunged into the cool embrace of the deep green lake. Nothing but pure bliss and her heart at peace. Andie delighted in the shades of green.

The refreshing sensation of the water lingered on her skin in contrast to the warm rays of sunshine that kissed her skin. Spring was here, casting its spell on the forest, leaving it a vibrant and lush sanctuary of tranquility and beauty. Amidst nature's splendor, she discovered a profound sense of joy, simply by being the happiest version of her herself.

Upon waking, there seemed to be another source of warmth besides the covers she laid under. A cat with a brown coat similar to Bean's, curled against her side.

"Good morning," Andie cooed, "You must be Moka."

Andie followed the alluring scent of warm pancakes to find Luca in the kitchen with breakfast already made. Although he suggested for her to take her time, she couldn't contain her eagerness to explore as Luca had planned to show her around.

Bean came along the journey, endearing himself to Andie even more when she learned that he was a mighty protector and obedient dog. They ferried across a vast lake to a small town on the other side of shore. Luca preferred the excitement of boat travel over driving through the crummy roads.

It was a quaint and humble town. Walking beside Luca, she observed how small it truly was, seeing as he greeted each townsfolk by name. The contrast to her New York City life made her realize how much she had missed out on.

"Do you mind if I ask what you do?" Andie asked breathlessly as they hiked up a hill, with the promise of a gorgeous view at the end. She was curious to know about his occupation given the house he lived in and the amount of leisure time her had.

"I own some of the local businesses here." Luca answered confidently, "I inherited them from my grandfather."

She smiled, appreciating the humility in his words.

"And, your siblings?"

"I'm actually an only child. But I know one of my cousins inherited real estate and the other got his college tuition paid."

Her eyes widened. "Wow, can your grandfather adopt me?"

"I'm sure he would if he was still alive." He laughed.

Andie's expression softened, worried that she might've tugged on the wrong sting. Though, the smile on Luca's face remained.

"My parents often went on business trips, so much of my childhood was spent in the care of my grandparents." Luca explained, digging his hands into his pockets.

"Despite my bond with my parents, my relationship with my grandfather grew especially strong during high school. When I came out to my parents and they initially rejected me, grandpa was there for me with open arms."

"I'm sorry.." she said softly.

"It's okay! It wasn't long till my parents came around and have been the best support one could have. I'm definitely lucky to have had a family who loved me enough to look past their differences." He responded, smiling.

Andie smiled back, feeling relieved that there was no tension.

"It was also prosperity for me."

Andie had known Luca for only a day, but she was beyond joyous that he received what he deserved.

Reaching the end of their hike, the view as promised was photogenic as ever, with a canopy of trees below. True to Luca's word, stunning and inspiring.

She hurried to get her art supplies. Luca watched with curiosity as she set up her easel and prepared the spread of colors. He went on to ask about her techniques, favorite painters, and her thoughts on art and life. Though not well-versed in art, Luca's wisdom belied in his young age.

Often times Andie would get carried away by the sound of his laugh, the value of his words and the sight of him to focus on what she had originally decided to paint. Eventually, she had stopped glancing at the view and instead let her brush stroke the canvas according to how she felt.

Layers of green tones formed, creating a landscape that captured the essence of Luca. It wasn't a portrait, but a reflection of him in nature. A single glance at the painting evoked an image of Luca in all his splendor.

"It beautiful," He whispered beside her.

Andie tore her gaze from the painting to Luca, "Yes, it is."

Returning home, they settled on the couch with dinner and a movie. But the movie was merely background noise, Andie's focus remained on learning more about Luca and his life.

Turned out, he had eyes on a pharmacist in town. He had the courage to ask for his number a few days prior but hesitated to make the call. Eventually, with a little persuasion and a few glasses of wine, Luca took the plunge. Thanks to her, he has a date set for Friday night.

"Luca," Andie whispered, noticing him drifting off to sleep.

"Hm?" He murmured, one eye cracking open she scooted closer. Tentatively, she wrapped her arms around his waist, resting her head on his shoulder like a child seeking comfort. He chuckled, eyes remaining shut as he nestled his head atop hers.

"Thank you," She whispered, shutting her eyes to refrain from letting her eyes gloss with tears. "For everything."

"Of course, Andie." He replied, sinking deeper into the couch with her at his side.

Bean settled on her lap, providing warmth as Andie struggled to keep her eyes open, distracted by the flickering TV light. Uncertainty about her next stop filled her with both excitement and fear.

As dawn broke, casting a silhouette of trees against the curtains, Andie knew it was time to leave. Slowly, she untangled herself from Luca's embrace and gently lifted Bean from her lap. His tail wagged eagerly as she led him to the bathroom, where he waited patiently outside as she changed.

Leaving her number on a Post-It, Andie kissed the top of Bean's head, a. gentle stroke down Moka's back as she had joined to see her out, and tousled Luca's hair before slipping out of the house.

Driving down the winding roads, she mentally captured the treasure she'd stumble upon after misreading the map and taking the wrong exit en route to the airport.

🎧 ʏᴏᴜɴɢ ᴀɴᴅ ʙᴇᴀᴜᴛɪғᴜʟ ʟᴀɴᴀ ᴅᴇʟ ʀᴇʏ

& ᴅᴇᴀᴛʜ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴅɪɢɴɪᴛʏ sᴜғᴊᴀɴ sᴛᴇᴠᴇɴs ↻ ◁ ɪɪ ▷ ↺

.・。.・゜✭・.

Toes buried beneath the dirt, though it wasn't as fine as beach sand. Made sense of course, since it was the shore of a lake.

Andie stumbled upon a hidden lake in the mountains, shrouded by trees that whispered secrets to the wind. At the center of it all, a solitary dock floated, beckoning to her like an old friend. Scenes of Nick, Jay and Daisy jumping off a similar dock played back in her mind, though this scene was different. The water shimmered a deep green, reflecting the surrounding forest, and the sun peeked through the leaves, casting spotlight-like beams on the water. Of course, Lana Del Rey's Young and Beautiful wasn't playing in the background of all this splendor. Mother Nature was the artist, using all shades of green on her canvas, the world. The scene was etched in Andie's mind as she dipped her feet in the cool water, like carvings of lovers on a tree.

It was definitely a moment that would have not been done justice if replicated with the artistic skills she had.

She braved the ice cold water, stripping down to her bare skin and submerging herself in. Despite the numbing cold, she had grown accustomed to it since her last encounter with the stranger almost 5 months ago.

Occasionally, the sparks of heat, deep inside would arise when she'd remember his words. Those very words had stirred a fire and for days, she was restless as she'd think about when time would allow her to see him again, to see his gorgeous smile, to feel warm again, but most importantly, to tell him of her pursuit to happiness. Following the last day she met Isaac, it was arranged for her most loyal employee to take over duties at the shop as long as she'd be gone. A sweet, young guy looking to make some extra cash to pay for college tuition. Andie had then waited an additional 4 months, hoping Isaac would walk through those doors, but he didn't. So she packed her things and left.

It was definitely worth bearing the temperature of the water as she sat on the dock, taking it all in. Safety and peace lived in harmony among the lake and trees.

As Andie finally reached the shore, she peeled off the wet swimsuit and hastily wrapped herself in an over-sized sweater. Seated in the peaceful stillness, she listened to the soft echoes through the trees, assuming it was nearby animals passing by. But as the rustling of bushes and twigs snapping grew louder, anxiety gnawed at her, fearing the approach of a larger, more menacing creature.

Never did It occur to her that it might be a threat of a murderer. Thus, when a male emerged from the trees with a sudden cry, both Andie and the guy recoiled in surprise, their instincts flaring. They stood at wary distance, eyeing each other cautiously, before he spoke.

"Uh, sorry for scaring you," He said, stooping to collect the fish that had spilled from his bucket during their mutual scare.

Andie chuckled softly, joining him in gathering the scattered catch.

"No worries," She replied, her nerves easing with his apology.

He chuckled in return, the tension dissipating as they shared a moment of mutual understanding.

"Still, I should've announced myself. I'm sorry."

Andie smiled at his sheepish laugh, feeling a warmth spread beneath the layers of her sweater, now a shield against both cold and unease. His gaze lingered on the droplets tracing down her hair and the exposed skin of her legs.

"Did you go for a swim?" He asked, incredulity tinting his tone.

Andie nodded, a shy smile tugging at her lips.

"In this weather?" He continued, a hint of amusement coloring his disbelief.

Again, she nodded her smile growing as she met his gaze.

"Just passing through. Thought I'd take a swim."

His eyes sparkled with amusement and curiosity, casting aside any initial wariness.

"Well, would you like some fish? I caught quite a few, good ones too," he offered, lifting the bucket as if to emphasize his point.

In the brief pause that followed, Andie's thoughts raced, highlighting the cautionary tales and movies she'd seen or heard. Though, beneath the surface, a gut feeling urged her to trust him, his dear genuine and warm.

"Sure," she nodded, a tentative smile played on her lips. Doing so, she quickly realized that she was still naked underneath. Shock and embarrassment painted her face, giving the young man a hint as to what the situation entailed. He quickly looked the other way.

He cleared his throat, trying to mask the shyness behind his dusted pink on his cheeks. "My house isn't too far from here. You can dry your clothes there."

"Thank you."

As they walked, he introduced himself, and Andie shared about her desire to travel the world. She couldn't shake the feeling of sounding like a cliche from a book-turned-movie, but to Luca her spontaneous expedition was the epitome of cool.

"Before you come in, I've got to warn you about Bean," he said, his fingers curled around the door handles of the mahogany double doors.

"Bean?" Andie asked, her curiosity piqued as he walked before her. She was greeted by a labradoodle with a chocolate coat, nudging the door open with his snout. Bean pranced around Luca, seeking attention, his long tail wagging about, occasionally swatting at Andie's legs. Luca indulged him, dropping to the ground and engaging in his playful antics.

She enjoyed watching as he abandoned his fishing gear to lavish Bean with attention and affection. In Luca, Andie found the embodiment of rejuvenation and wisdom found in nature, the liveliness and pace of the deep green forest.

Her laughter caught Bean's attention, and he rushed over, his floppy ears bouncing with each step. His wet tongue lolled out as he greeted her and his paw resting on her stomach while he attempted to shower her in sloppy kisses. Andie laughed some more, steadying herself against the door.

"Hello Bean," She greeted, dropping to her knees to hug the friendly dog.

Luca laughed, his hand lovingly ruffled Bean's head.

"He's quite the charmer,"

"I already love him," Andie admitted, feeling a cuteness surge for the playful pup. She never had a pet, but meeting Bean ignited a newfound case of puppy love.

Luca chuckled, retrieving his bucket of fish and stashing the fishing pole in a closet nearby.

"C'mon, I'll show you to the bathroom."

🎧 ᴄʟᴀss ᴏғ ²⁰¹³ ᴍɪᴛsᴋɪ ↻ ◁ ɪɪ ▷ ↺

.・。.・゜✭・.

Baking never meant more to Andie than it had now.

She recollected her teenage years to be a cliche movie. Full of “I appreciate your passion, but it’s just not mine.” And “I can’t keep living my life according to your expectations!” As she ran towards her room with the slam of a door echoing the house. Whenever life became difficult, Andie would find herself fleeing from her mother’s disapproving gaze. It was easier than confronting the disappointment in her eyes.

The idea of baking, resulted in eye rolling and a not-so friendly reminder of the messy aftermath, with dirty pans, and batter bits spilled. Just the thought of having to clean it all up to make the same mess over and over again, sparked an insufferable migraine in the back of her mind.

Andie’s mom had other plans in mind. It began with subtle small talk as Andie would walk in the kitchen while she baked. Eventually, it resulted in Andie finding her mom’s baking time perfect for conversation. Her mom was cheeky enough to further her tactics of drawing Andie into the bakery, asking her for an ingredient here and there, to stir the batter every once in a while, looking after the pastry while she left the room. It wasn’t long after, she began falling completely into her mother’s scheme and doing all the work. The first couple times were pleasant, spending time with her mom and watching the improvement in progress. Though after a while, it had become expected of her to use this new talent at the shop 4 times a week.

Andie had much rather spend her days painting in her room. The paintbrush would dance across the canvas as she lost herself in the strains of a familiar song. Each note, every lyric, was a doorway to another memory. Those of her father, and of past friends she’s pushed away to avoid them from seeing her in all her vulnerability. Little did she know, she was being conditioned, in order to take on the business.

The upheaval that once left her feeling shattered, now grants her the ability to savor simple pleasures like entering the pastry shop each morning, where memories of her mother flood her heart with warmth. Located in the heart of Lower Manhattan, the shop is not only a source of income but also a place where she can honor her mother’s legacy. Despite the challenges she faced, she was..

“Satisfied?”

“Yeah,” she smiled, picking up the pieces of the past and storing them back into the corner of her mind.

“You know, satisfaction doesn’t always equate happiness.”

“Sounds ripped off a bench ad.” She joked.

“No, sounds like my parents-“

The timer sounds, interrupting the conversation. It took away focus from her soap box, showcasing the struggles of growing up with a single mother living check by check.

“Look, all I’m trying to say is that you should do something that makes you happy. Not everything is about money.”

She avoided eye contact, instead glanced over to the shiny watch on his wrist that gleamed with status and wealth. Intricately carved into the silver was a brand name she could barely pronounce. But she was sure, he was more than comfortable enough for the name to roll off his tongue like butter.

“Your father is a lawyer and your mom, a doctor, yes?” She replied. Isaac nodded.

“Well, mines was a baker. I don’t know about you, but the gap between you and I could not be more obvious to understand that you grew up with money to spare and I didn’t. There’s no pressure on your end to exceed them because mom and dad will always be there for you, with one hand holding yours and the other carrying a thick wallet. My mom had a high school diploma and me.”

There was a pause.

“And, your father?” Isaac asked with caution.

“He promised he’d maintain my mom and I, but last I saw him was when I turned seven.” She whispered.

Baking was a livelihood, not Andie’s passion. A sweet reminder of her past sure, but not her peace.

Realization hit Isaac harder than ever before. Being wealthy, surrounded by other people who shared the same level of status or even higher. A world of luxury and traveling had encased him in a blissful ignorance. He felt selfish for saying what he did, as it might only apply to those like him

“I’m sorry.” He apologized, biting his lip

“Having money isn’t a crime. It’s what most of us strive for. Work your ass off so your successors can have what you couldn’t, right?”

“I just feel like I’m rubbing it in your nose, and I don’t mean to.”

“You’re not. Please don’t apologize and let’s focus on finishing your cake.” She smiled.

Andie couldn’t shake off the words he said. She hadn’t noticed sooner, but the bakery no longer retained that same warmth and comfort it used to bring. It was a different homeliness, the same found in the strangers arms and hands that had replaced it. Andie knew he was right. Feelings of satisfaction does not equate being happy nor does it mean one is unhappy.

It was until Isaac had left, that the pastry shop felt cold.

🎧 Bᴇᴛᴛᴇʀ ᴛʜᴀɴ Sɴᴏᴡ Lᴀᴜғᴇʏ & Nᴏʀᴀʜ Jᴏɴᴇs ↻ ◁ ɪɪ ▷ ↺

.・。.・゜✭・.

A gust of cold air whistled through the opening of the door, louder than the bell hung at the top of the door. With an abrupt shiver running up and down a young baker's spine, she broke concentration from the cookies she was icing.

"Hello?"

Scrunched brows, those of the baker, approached the front counter.

"I'm sorry sir, but we're closed."

A young man who carried a frantic look on his face, proceeded in long strides and hands stretched out meeting the bakers.

"Please, I need a cake. My idiot friend dropped one in the pool."

An amused scoff escaped from her lips, slipping her hands out of the strangers. Despite his desperate efforts, the thought of a cake being dropped into the pool in the midst of December seemed difficult to get past.

"A pool? How do you-"

"He's an idiot," He quickly responded, shaking his head annoyed, allowing a few loose strands to fall from his once perfectly gelled hair. It's given her the idea that he might've ran all this way for a rebound cake. Also taking into consideration the heavy pants and sweat bead beginning to form at the temples of his head.

"Do you think you could make me another one?"

The baker peeked at the clock past his shoulder, noticing the late hour. There's no doubt that every shop had been closed off by now. She was this stranger's last hope, creating a weight pressing onto her shoulders. "Okay."

His eyes lit up and the relief had taken over him, pulling the bakery for a hug over the counter.

"Sir?" Her voice cracks, stiff as a board, awkwardly patting the back of the stranger who had her in his arms.

"Sorry." He quickly pulled away, scratching a non-existent itch at the back of his neck.

There was a pause as she tried to hold back a smile at his shy demeanor.

"You can come around back." She gestured for him to follow. "No one's here."

The young man had followed, nose in the air, taking in the scent of freshly baked pastries. The warmth of goodies in the oven around them wrapped him cozily, in contrast to the winter wonderland outside.

Tightening and flattening out the apron around her waist she moved fluidly around the kitchen, setting aside a batch of cookies, clearing the area before taking on her new task.

"What kind of cake would you like?" She asked, dusting her hands off.

"Do you think you can make a white chocolate cake layered with strawberry filling?"

She stops in her path to look over at him with widened eyes, "No actually...I'm afraid I haven't mastered that yet,"

His mouth is agape with worrisome eyes, trying to muster up something to say without any actual words spilling out his mouth. That is, until the baker drops the act at his genuine reaction.

"Kidding." She chuckled softly.

He scoffs, and his eyes falling into crescents as he smiles. The ice had been melted away with the warmth in their smiles.

The stranger silently watched her work intently. Never losing sight of her actions and attention to detail. In wonderment of what exactly goes on in her mind while she works with such focus.

"I'm Isaac, by the way."

"Isaac, I'm Andie." She introduced herself, looking back at him.

He'd already been smiling, though the eye contact between each other had caught him off guard. The corners of his lips spread wider, and he'd caught a better glimpse of her up close, noticing her honey skin decorated in specs of rogue chocolate splatters, and a stubborn hair on her cheek that he'd have the sudden urge to brush away, allowing him to fully admire. Of course, he refrains.

"So Isaac, how did your idiot friend drop your cake in the pool?"

Andie continuously uses his name, allowing it to dance and roll of her tongue the way it does. And she liked it.

Isaac releases a breathy laugh, shaking his head away as the memory replays in his mind.

"That man," He sighs, yet the smile doesn't fail at the thought of this cherished friend.

"We're hosting Christmas on the rooftop this year, and he'd thought it was a good idea to make one trip, with both the cake and a tray of biscuits on his arms. Unfortunately, because the cake was too heavy, he dropped the cake into the pool as he made way for outside."

Nabi snickered, eyes cheerful while her hands work on the batter. All the while, imagining what kind of life this guy must've lived for his rooftop to have a pool. Now thinking about it, he did have that city boy look.

It was sort of boy meets Breakfast at Tiffany's, only he was a male Holly Golightly, dressed in classic black attire with a designer coat that suited him fancy with his tall, lean figure and even proportions. And you can't forget the polished shoes, a blinding watch on his wrist and glittering rings adorning his slim fingers. Perhaps a businessman?

"Why are you working so late on Christmas?" He asked, growing intrigued by the young baker who unintentionally poked his brain for answers.

"Believe it or not, the mornings after Christmas Day are always the busiest." Andie answers with a familiar sting in her heart. "I've got to make sure we have enough pastries prepared."

Isaac's eyes softened at the way her smile lost its glow. It was best to leave it at that, and so he does while taking a glance around the kitchen til' his eyes fall on a batch of holiday cookies.

She's just about ready to fill a tin with a batter, before Isaac stops her, taking her by the wrist gently.

"Wait-"

"Do you think you could add a pattern? Like, when you cut into it, you'd see stripes like a candy cane."

"I could, but it would take a little while longer." She replied, but with instant realization she adds on, "Not that I don't want to. make it that way for you... I just assumed you were in a rush."

Isaac smiles, letting go of her wrist.

"I'm not in a rush. I would actually like to help."

Her skin tingles where his hand had previously wrapped around her wrist.

"Sure. You can help."

His brows shoot up as he fixed his posture.

"Don't worry, you won't ruin it." Andie reassures.

"I'm not too sure about that. My mom doesn't call me clumsy for nothing."

She laughs, but the look on his face says that he was being serious. Nonetheless, he was more than happy to help. His heart did somersaults and stomach was home to hundreds of butterflies.

Having washed his hands and wrap an apron around his waist, he stood by Andie's side curiously.

"Is it okay if-" her fingers pointed at his hands.

The confusion in his eyes was quickly wiped away when he realized what she had been shyly asking.

"Yeah," He nodded, eyes studying the details of her smaller hands.

Andie's hands gently held his, and his breath was caught in his through when he felt the warmth. She guided him through the proper filling making process, explaining the procedure in great detail, though her grew distracted by the thumping in his heart and the fire on his skin where she touched him.

"Isaac?" Blinking away his thoughts, he'd realize her hands were no longer holding his. Isaac looked down at his own hands and still felt the sensation as if the feeling was tattooed onto his skin.

"You think you can do it?"

"Sorry?" He replied as he had not paid attention to a single word said.

"It's okay, I can do it. You can help yourself to some cookies instead."

"No, I can do it." He smiled with determination, "But, do you mind showing me one last time?"

She nods, going over the instructions thoroughly without the physical action of explaining.

"I mean- do you mind holding my.."

"...Sure" She laughed softly

Andie held his hands once again, sparking up the same bubbly feeling at each other's core. She paused, studying his hands before looking up and finding him already staring back at her.

Isaac's eyes glimmered and her heart raced at the simplicity of it all. Though, there was nothing simple about the way both hearts race for each other.

.・。.・゜✭・.

The impact we have on each other is profound. As if we were assembling ourselves like intricate puzzles, taking bits and pieces of those we encounter along the way to make us, us. Absorbing the feeling of being with others, dissecting shared moments, figuring out what made it unique. In doing so, we retain fragments of their essence within us.

who are you?

who along the journey had influenced the person you are?

ᴘʀᴏʟᴏɢᴜᴇ ᴛᴏ ᴍᴏsᴀɪᴄ