“ oh, no, see, now i’m absolutely coming back for more, ” lake says immediately, pointing at jasiri with her straw once the smoothies are handed over. “ you can’t describe something as kiwi-tastic and not expect me to develop an emotional attachment to it. ” she takes a sip, pauses, then blinks like she’s personally offended. “ okay, wait. that’s actually ridiculous. ” a laugh slips out as she takes another sip, leaning back against the counter. “ also, thank you for validating my decision to avoid responsibility tonight. after the stair machine tried to humble me publicly, i deserve compensation and twelve hours of bedrest. ”
her expression softens when jasiri explains, attention sharpening with genuine interest. “ wait, you were a physiotherapist for pro-athletes? that’s actually so cool. ” she tilts her head, thoughtful now. “ and wanting something more meaningful makes sense. i think eventually people wanna feel connected to what they do, not just good at it. ” then her mouth curves again. “ for the record, sedona’s really good at trapping people here accidentally. one minute it’s christmas festivities, next thing you know you’re emotionally attached to a town and discussing your love life with a stranger at the gym. ”
lake glances toward the exit, then back at jasiri with an apologetic smile. “ speaking of avoiding responsibility, i should probably go before i sit down and never get back up. ” she lifts the smoothie in a little salute. “ thanks for saving me from death by stair machine, smoothie fraud, and poor stretching habits. next one’s on me, gym guardian angel! ” with one last grin, lake turns toward the doors, straw between her lips, already feeling lighter than when she came in.