Hello and happy Thursday! It's been a while since I last updated and I apologize for that. With the holidays, school and being sick on and off for about a month, time has just flown by. I'll try to update more often, but I have like 4 stories going on, so bear with me.
Thank you for you continuous support and patience. It means the word to me.
And last but not least, Happy Belated Thanksgiving, Merry Belated Christmas and Happy Belated New Year! I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season!
originalguest: I saw, great news! Aw, you're so welcome and too sweet! Um, Martha may make an appearance or two later on…You'll just have to read to find out, thank you and you'll see soon! I have to catch up on yours!
nmendivil30: Right?! Thank you so much! And yes, they all will be popping up some time throughout the story!
violet1429: Haha, you'll just have to read to find out! Maya is Maya and things will become clearer as the story progresses. And yes, good old Josh…
Jen: Hehe…Josh and you're probably right!
Calypso: Aw, thank you so much! That means a lot! And yes, I'll be continuing that. I have to update one more GMW story and LVL will be up!
Siennese: Thank you so much! That makes so happy to hear!
Lucina0819: Thank you and you'll just have to keep reading…and this is an evenly shared 'ships' story.
Allie: Maybe and we'll see. But yes, too bad…And, thank you so much!
volleyballer82: Here it is!
Enjoy!
"Our neighbor?" Maya repeats with a grunt and not looking very pleased by the new information. "We're neighbors with Miss Prissy Pants who wears way too make up and whose blonde hair is fake, like her boobs? And how the hell does Lucas even know her?"
"Yes, yes, but please don't start anything and I don't know. They're probably dating. Look at how cozy they are with one another," Riley replies, staring over to the couple as their neighbor has her arm hooked around Lucas'.
"But, but if he's with her, why was he flirting with you?" Maya questions, her eyebrows knitting together as she's trying to understand everything.
"He wasn't flirting with me, Peaches. Stop saying that, okay. He was just being friendly. And from the short conversation we had, I could tell he's a genuinely nice person who wouldn't play with my or anyone else's emotions," Riley finds herself defending her new 'friend', which is still a little weird to acknowledge.
"I don't know, Honey. There's something that doesn't sit well with me," Maya grumbles, looking at her best friend and then to their guests.
"Maya, drop it. Please," Riley begs as she spots Lucas and his friend, girlfriend or whoever she is starting to walk around the store.
"Riley, chill. I'm not going to do anything," Maya responds calmly and gives her a smile.
"I want to believe you, but I know you. I know you're planning something in that artistic mind of yours," Riley retorts, giving Maya a knowing look and firm stare.
"Well this time, I'm not," Maya fires back, sticking her tongue out at Riley.
"Yeah, sure," she laughs. "I bet you're just-,"
"Riley, hi," she's interrupted by a deep voice that's coming towards her.
Swiftly turning around, she sees Lucas and the blonde a few step away from her and Maya as she puts a smile on her face. She can't help but notice the huge grin Lucas is sporting and it makes her heart beat faster. She also sees the blonde's smile and even though it looks friendly, she knows it's fake and is not sure what's about to happen.
"Hello, Lucas. I'm glad you could make it," Riley greets in a friendly tone.
"Are you kidding me? This place is amazing. And those painting. Wow. Who's the artist?" Lucas wonders in awe.
"Thank you so much. We're thrilled you like them and actually, Maya and I are the artists," Riley tells him with a shy smile.
"Really?" Lucas gasps in amazement. "They're incredible."
"Thank you, Lucas. You're very sweet," Maya answers this time with a polite nod and then smiles at the blonde. "Hello?"
"Hi," the blonde cheers a little too preppy for Maya's liking.
"Oh, I'm sorry for the late introductions. Riley, Maya, this is my best friend Missy. Mis, these are friends of mine and owners of this remarkable store, Riley and Maya," Lucas introduces, not noticing the awkwardness between the three women.
"It's so nice to meet the both of you. Your store is adorable," Missy smiles brightly, flashing her perfectly white teeth. "I own the antique store next door and I'm so excited to have new neighbors."
"I'm sure you are," Maya agrees in a condescending tone.
"It's a pleasure to meet you and it'll be nice to see a friendly face," Riley partially lies, remembering their not so pleasant encounter hours earlier and adding something nice before Maya can say anything else.
"Yeah, Missy's sweet. She'll be more than happy to help you guys out," Lucas offers immediately as he gives Missy a big smile and then smiles happily at Riley.
"Thank you. That's very generous. Please, continue to look around and enjoy light refreshments towards the back wall," Riley suggests with a forced smile and motions to her right as she's politely trying to end this conversation.
"Thank you, Rita. And again, cute place," Missy smirks a devilish smile while dragging Lucas away with her, not allowing him to say goodbye.
"That woman," Maya hisses through gritted teeth as she continues to glare at Lucas and Missy's backs as they walk away.
"For once, I have to agree with you. She's not going to be very nice and I'm a little afraid of her," Riley admits, ringing her hands together in front of her as from experience, people like Missy make her life a living hell.
Maya quickly notices the action and places her hand over Riley's to stop her, knowing exactly what's going on in her head. "Riles, listen to me. We both know Missy's someone we don't want to deal with, but I also know she won't do anything. As long as she wants Lucas to continue being her friend, she'll put on her best fake smile and pretend to like us. And sadly, we'll do the same because we want peace, not problems. But if fake boobs messes with you, I'll take her down in a snap," she promises as she snaps her fingers together.
Riley lets out a soft chuckle and quickly hugs Maya, feeling better already. "Thanks, My. You're the best. Now, let's get back to enjoying this moment," as she pulls Maya back into the crowd.
OoOoOoOo
The rest of the day goes by rather fast and once Riley waves goodbye to the last costumer and closes the door, she turns back around and looks at the empty store that now has many openings and vacant spots. She's speechless at the sight and feels a sense of accomplishment. And before she can go deeper into her thoughts, she's joined by her uncle who's smiling from ear to ear.
"Wow, ladies. Today was a major success. I'm so happy for you guys," he cheers joyfully.
"Thanks, Josh," Maya grins, satisfied with the day's achievement. "We did do well, didn't we?"
The three share a laugh and Riley adds with a huge smile, "Yes we did. And again, thank you Uncle Josh for all your help. We couldn't have done this without you."
"Yeah, you could have and you would've done just fine. You both are driven enough to make your dreams a reality. And, I love being a part of the transformation and this team. We all have something to be proud about. Now, how about I order sandwiches from the deli down the street and then we can start on some inventory and restocking for tomorrow?" Josh offers with a smile as his stomach lets out a loud grumbling noise.
"Sounds perfect. Thanks, Uncle Josh," Riley giggles as Josh gives his niece a salute and heads out the door.
"So, was today everything you dreamed it would be?" Maya questions Riley once it's just the two of them.
"Yes and so much for. Thank you for agreeing to be my business partner and for being by my side through everything," Riley murmurs, her eyes staring to water with so many emotions.
"Oh, honey," Maya sighs, hugging her friend tenderly. "You don't need to thank me for anything. I didn't agree to do this just for you. I did it because we share a common dream and because you believed in me. This store is going to be amazing because we both care so much about our artwork and our purpose for starting this in the first place. 'Changing Strokes' will be the store everyone needs in their life. I guarantee it."
"I wouldn't go that far, but I like it," Riley laughs, appreciating her best friend's gift of changing serious matters into something more enjoyable.
"I would. But anyways, know that this store is important. And one last thing, did you see Lucas leave?" Maya wonders curiously.
"Um, no I didn't. For a little bit I was signing people up for classes. Why?" Riley probes with raised eyebrows.
"Well, I think it's a little rude that he didn't say goodbye. I bet Missy wouldn't let him," Maya accuses with a glare.
Riley rolls her eyes at the comment and repeats the same thing from earlier. "Maya, he didn't need to say goodbye. People came and went all day without saying a word to us and it won't be the last time we see him. He's our delivery guy. Why are you so hung up on him?"
"I'm not hung up on him," Maya defends, snapping at Riley.
"I think you are," Riley pushes back, trying not to smile as she rattles Maya because she knows she's up to something.
"Riley, I've told you before and I'll tell you again. I don't like the guy that way. But, he seems decent enough to be a part of our group," Maya explains and lies through her teeth as she knows Lucas will be great with their friends. And she also knows he could be the one who can help Riley be the old Riley again. It's just going to take some time.
"You're right. He does-," Riley begins to approve before getting cut off.
"Can someone help me?" Josh yells from the door, trying to balance the bag of food and drinks on top.
Riley quickly rushes to her uncle's aid and when they walk past Maya, she gives her that look, letting her know that their conversation is over.
While they eat, Maya and Riley recount the day and smile at all the nice people they met as Josh is working on the numbers. He was proud of how the day went and even more so when he finishes counting the money and receipts.
"Damn, niece. This is amazing," he beams widely.
"Really? How'd we make out?" Riley inquires nervously as her legs start to shake.
"What was your revenue goal for today?" Josh asks, tapping his fingers on the table.
"Um, we didn't really have a set goal. But we did want to be in the black and I would say over five hundred, maybe less after you subtract some of the last minute expenses," Riley replies, biting her lower lip.
"Well first off, there were a few smart things we did in the beginning. Like buying the building instead of leasing. I know it was a steep purchase at the start of this, but now, you don't have to worry about month to month payments. And if you ever decide to move, you're the owner and will get all the profit. Which will be good on your end. Secondly, buying in bulk bi-weekly, will help more items get sold because you can offer customers new and or different products that are similar to what they're looking. And lastly, your classes are a huge hit. A good portion of your income will come from those. So now that I explained some of the benefits, it's time to tell you, you exceeded your 'goal'. You are most definitely in the black and close to four grand. Both your artworks were main sellers and this is an amazing start. You have a nice cushion for now, but be aware that not every month will be this strong. However, I don't think you have anything to worry about," Josh reports, the smile never leaving his face.
"Wow. I can't believe this," Riley exhales, stunned and at a loss of words.
"We can," Maya praises. "I just told you Changing Strokes is the store."
Laughter fills the room as the three bask in the glory of a tremendous first day.
Within the next hour, the three clean up, restock and then call it a night as they have to be well rested for tomorrow. Sharing hugs goodbye, Josh heads towards the back to lock up the offices as Riley and Maya lock the front. Once the lights are off, Riley smiles at the quietness and all three head out the back door to their cars and wave one last goodbye.
Maya takes Riley home as Josh goes in the opposite direction and once they turn onto the main road, Maya questions, "It's cool that I spend the night, right?"
"Yes, Maya, I don't mind. And even if I did, you'd still come over," Riley teases as minutes later they're pulling in front of the apartment.
After being welcomed with warm heat, Maya grabs a bottle of water from the refrigerator and then shouts over her shoulder, "I'm taking a shower," as she heads down the hall.
Riley shakes her head at her best friend as she goes to her answering machine, yes, she's old school like that, and sees it blinking with a bright red one. Assuming it's only a telemarketer, she presses play and is about to delete it when she hears the familiar voice that makes her smile and cry.
"Hey, Riley, it's Farkle. I'm sorry I missed your grand opening today, but I know it was fantastic. You and Maya deserve so much commendation for all your hard work. I'll be back in town tomorrow and I'll stop by the store as soon as I land. Have a good night, love you and I can't wait to see you. Bye."
The message ends and she's so happy to hear from him. He's another one of her best friend's and can't wait to see him. Gliding into her room with a wondrous glow, she stops in front of her nightstand and kneels down as she stares at her favorite photo and cries, "Today was a good day. No, today was an unbelievable day. Everything went smoothly and I'm flabbergasted by the outcome. I'm sure you saw everything for yourself and I hope that you're proud of me. I miss you every day and I'll never stop loving you."
She blows a kiss to the picture and closes her eyes for a second, taking a few deep breaths and listening to the silence before wiping her cheeks and standing back up to get ready for bed. And even though it's been years, she still feels the ache and loneliness, but also the undeniable love that's left with her.
OoOoOoOo
The next morning, seven o'clock arrives way too early, but Riley slides out of bed and starts a pot of coffee before walking back down the hall to the guest bedroom and having the impossible task of waking her guest and best friend up, who most times sleeps like a log.
"Maya," she whispers and gently knocks on the door as she's greeted with silence. "Peaches," she tries again, speaking little louder and hearing slight movement as she knows she's getting closer.
"My," she greets in her normal voice as she pushes the door wide open.
"Ugh, I'm up," Maya finally grumbles and sits up as Riley giggles and walks away, pleased with herself as it only took ten minutes.
About forty-five minutes later, the two are heading out the door and ready for a new day. After stopping by the bakery across the street from the store, the two enter the building with smiles on their faces and food in their stomachs. Maya offers to take Josh his breakfast as Riley heads to the front to unlock the main door.
She props the door open a sliver to get some fresh air and once she turns around, the sounds of a truck startles her as she hastily looks over her shoulder to see the familiar UPS truck parking right in front of the door.
Anxiously biting her lower lip, Riley watches Lucas jump out of the truck and head in her direction with a pensive expression on his face. When he finally looks up and catches her stare, he gives her a big smile and wave before pointing to the door with a raised eyebrow. Riley finds herself nodding yes as the door opens wider a second later.
"Morning, Riley," Lucas greets happily.
"Good morning, Lucas. How are you? Do I have another order?" Riley starts to ramble.
"I'm doing well and no, you don't have anything today. I just wanted to stop by to tell you that yesterday was amazing. The store, the artwork, the crowd. All of it was great and I'm sorry I didn't say goodbye before I left. Missy got a phone call and rushed out. I went after her, but I feel awful for leaving you," Lucas expresses with remorse as Riley couldn't believe how caring his was. To be apologizing for something that wasn't even that big of a deal. Here he goes again, making her feel all out of sorts.
"Thank you, Lucas. That means a lot. And please, there's no need to apologize. You didn't have to say goodbye, but I appreciate the gesture. I hope everything's okay with Missy," Riley waves off and then shows concern.
"Everything's fine. Missy tends to be over-emotional sometimes," Lucas mentions casually.
"Oh, okay," Riley nods, not sure how to respond. "I'm just glad she's okay."
"Yeah," Lucas mumbles as he rubs the back of his neck, which Riley notes is a sign of nervousness.
"Are you okay, Lucas?" she asks with worry.
"I'm fine," Lucas smiles as he stands up straighter. "And, um, there's actually another reason I stopped by. I wanted to make me leaving unannounced up to you, so, would you like to join me for coffee some time?"
And, there you go folks! Please let me know what you think.
Thanks and until next time,
Missy xx
