CHAPTER FOUR

Days have passed since Lisa and Rachel had the intense conversation about ‘true love’. Lisa's thoughts lingered on Rachel's words, challenging her beliefs about true love. Though uncertain, she couldn't shake off the feeling that Rachel was right. She decided to take the bold step and speak to Rachel.

Rachel walked into their apartment, dropping her keys onto the counter. The silence enveloped her, a stark contrast to the bustling streets she'd left behind.

‘Lisa?’ She called out, shedding her jacket.

No response.

Rachel wandered into Lisa’s bedroom, finding Lisa sprawled on the bed, eyes closed.

‘Hey, sleepyhead,’ Rachel said softly, settling beside Lisa.

Lisa's eyes fluttered open, a hint of a smile. ‘Hey, Rach. Welcome back.’

Rachel's gaze narrowed. ‘What's going on? You look...different.’

Lisa's smile grew. ‘I've been thinking. I'm ready to… take your advice.’

Rachel's eyebrows shot up. ‘Which advice?’

Lisa's voice took on a newfound resolve. ‘About having fun, not thinking about love. I'm done with heartbreak.’

Rachel's expression transformed from surprise to caution. ‘Lis, are you sure? You're not just reacting to…’

Lisa sat up, her eyes shining. ‘I'm positive, Rach. I need a change. Help me shake off this love sickness.’

Rachel's face softened. ‘Okay, then. Let's get this party started. Just us, enjoying the night.’

That Friday, Rachel left the house early only to come back hours later dressed to impress.

‘Time to shake off those relationship blues!’ Rachel declared, handing Lisa a glittering cocktail dress.

Lisa laughed, feeling a spark of excitement. ‘You're crazy, Rach.’

.…………………………

At Club Eclipse, the thumping music and pulsing lights electrified the air. Rachel and Lisa danced, lost in the beat, their worries forgotten.

As they sipped drinks at the bar, Rachel introduced Lisa to her friends, a vibrant group of women who embodied the carefree spirit Lisa craved.

For the first time in months, Lisa felt alive, unshackled from heartache.

As the night wore on, Lisa let go of her inhibitions, embracing the freedom and joy that came with letting go of expectations. For one night, at least, true love wasn't on her mind.

In the midst of the chaos, Lisa turned to Rachel, shouting over the music. ‘Thanks for this, Rach! I needed it’

Rachel smiled, her eyes shining. ‘Told you, Lis! We're taking back our lives!’

‘But I need to step out for a moment, I need air.’ Lisa said

‘Alright, Lis. Don’t stay out long.’

Lisa stepped out of the pulsating club, seeking refuge from the deafening music and suffocating crowd. The cool night air enveloped her like a soothing balm, calming her frazzled nerves. As she walked toward the corner of the building, a figure emerged from the shadows. Lisa's gaze met Jaime's, and her heart skipped a beat.

Jaime's chiseled features and piercing eyes left her breathless. His dark hair was perfectly messy, and his charming smile hinted at a thousand secrets.

‘Hey, you okay?’ Jaime asked, his deep voice gentle. ‘You look like you're escaping the chaos.’

Lisa laughed, feeling at ease. ‘Just needed some fresh air.’

Jaime nodded, leaning against the wall beside her. ‘I know the feeling. I'm Jaime, by the way.’

‘Lisa,’ she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

Their conversation flowed effortlessly, like a gentle stream. They talked about everything and nothing_music, movies, and life's quirks. Lisa found herself blushing at Jaime's witty remarks and genuine interest.

As they laughed together, a tall, lanky figure emerged from the club. ‘Hey, Jaime, we gotta go.’

Jaime's expression changed from relaxed to alert.

‘What's up, Mike?’ Jaime asked, his voice low.

Mike whispered in Jaime's ear, his words indistinguishable. Jaime's eyes narrowed, concern etched on his face.

‘I'm sorry, Lisa. I have to go,’ Jaime said abruptly, his voice tinged with regret.

Lisa's disappointment surprised her. ‘It's okay, I understand.’

Jaime smiled, his eyes crinkling. ‘Maybe I'll see you around?’

Lisa nodded, feeling a spark of connection.

As Jaime rushed toward his car, Mike followed, speaking urgently. Lisa watched, curiosity piqued. Jaime's car sped away, leaving Lisa with more questions than answers.

Lisa re-entered the club, the pulsating music and colorful lights enveloping her. She had promised Rachel she'd let loose and have fun.

As she sipped her drink, Lisa spotted a young man across the room, his eyes locked onto hers. He flashed a charming smile, making his way toward her.

‘Hey, beautiful,’ he said, sidling up beside her. ‘Mind if I join you?’

Lisa's cheeks flushed, but her mind whispered caution.

‘I'm Max,’ he said, extending his hand.

Lisa took it, looking uninterested. ‘Lisa,’ she replied, faking a smile.

‘You're stunning, Lisa. I couldn't take my eyes off you from across the room.’ Max's eyes sparkled with amusement. ‘Want to get out of here? My penthouse has an amazing view.’

She couldn't shake off the feeling that Max was a player, only interested in a one-night stand.

Lisa's instincts screamed warning, but Max's persuasive tone made her hesitate.

‘Come on, Lisa. We can get to know each other better.’

Rachel's words echoed in her mind. ‘Our generation is trashy...true love isn't for us.’ Was Max just another player?

Lisa searched his eyes, seeking sincerity. But Max's gaze seemed to hold only one promise, a night of pleasure.

‘Max, I…’ Lisa began, unsure.

Max leaned in, his breath against her ear. ‘Come on, Lisa. Let's have some fun. No strings attached.’

Lisa's thoughts swirled. Was she ready to give up on love? Did she want to settle for a casual hookup?