Maya and Carina began texting back and forth, trying to find a suitable day for Carina to move into Maya's penthouse. Their messages were a mix of logistics and light banter, a sign of their growing comfort with each other.

Maya: How does next Saturday work for you? I can help with the heavy lifting.

Carina: Sounds perfect. I'll enlist Jo and Gabrielle for extra hands. But you're not off the hook! ?

Maya: Haha, I wouldn't dream of it. I'll drop by your office tomorrow with the codes and a key.

Carina: Great. Thank you, Maya. Looking forward to making this work.

Maya: Me too, Carina. See you tomorrow.

The next day, Maya stopped by Carina's office. She carried a small box containing the key and a card with the security codes. As she walked through the bustling office, Maya felt a mix of nerves and excitement. When she reached Carina's desk, Carina looked up and smiled warmly.

"Hey," Carina greeted, standing up to meet her.

"Hey," Maya replied, handing over the box. "Here are the codes and the key. You'll have full access to everything."

Carina opened the box, glancing at the key and the card. "Thank you, Maya. This means a lot."

Maya smiled. "Of course. I'm happy to help. I will have everything moved out of the bedroom adjacent to yours by Saturday for you. The contractor said they got all your plans and should get that room completely in a week or two. I will clear an area in my office if you need to use it in the meantime. Is there anything else you need moved out."

Carina nodded, feeling a surge of gratitude. "Thanks, yes I sent all the designs over yesterday. With the penthouse being so close to the office it shouldn't be an issue but I do appreciate you accommodating me in your space."

"Heather said she got the list of food you sent her to keep stocked in the house and has made sure Carlos will have everything you need by Saturday." Maya continued smiling back at Carina. "It looks like this should be pretty easy transition."

Carina paused for a second "Maya have you ever had a roommate before?

"Like in college?" Maya questioned.

"Anytime." Carina responded

"I had a roommate during college and law school, why?" Maya still puzzled.

"Just wondering, Gabrielle had mentioned she never really had a roommate before and that made it very difficult to adjust to someone living in their space in her more current relationships." Carina sighed

"Well I am pretty sure the Penthouse is large enough we can avoid each other if necessary." Maya laughed "And I am a work-a-holic so there's that also."

Carina laughed back "I haven't even moved in and you are already finding ways to avoid me."

Maya's face dropped for a moment "I didn't mean it like that."

"I was just teasing Maya" Carina laughed as she reached out to squeeze Maya's hand.

"Oh, well in that case let me run," Maya paused and laughed intentionally at her joke "I have a few more things to get ready before Saturday."

"Ciao," Carina replied as she gave Maya the now standard hug.

Carina could feel Maya's grip a little more snug on this hug than any before or she was imagining it, she wasn't sure.

— — —

Maya wanted to make Carina's move into the penthouse extra special, so she had asked her friend Vic, a talented local artist, to create a custom painting for Carina. Vic had called earlier in the day to let Maya know that the artwork was ready for pickup. Excited about the surprise, Maya decided to head over to Vic's studio to see the finished piece.

Vic's studio was a vibrant, creative space filled with canvases, paintbrushes, and works in progress. As Maya entered, Vic greeted her with a wide smile.

"Hey, Maya! Glad you could come by. The painting is all set," Vic said, leading Maya to a large, covered canvas in the corner of the studio.

"I can't wait to see it," Maya replied, feeling a mixture of anticipation and excitement.

Vic carefully removed the cover, revealing a stunning piece of art. The painting was a beautiful blend of colors, depicting a serene, abstract landscape with warm, inviting tones. It had a sense of tranquility and hope, perfect for Carina's new home.

Maya's eyes lit up as she took in the artwork. "Vic, this is amazing. Carina is going to love it."

Vic smiled, pleased with Maya's reaction. "I'm glad you think so. I wanted to create something that would bring a sense of peace and comfort. I hope it fits well in your penthouse. It's about time the bachelor-pad sheet is definitely out of style."

Maya laughed "So I have been told."

"So when is official move in day" Vic questioned.

"This Saturday" Maya replied with a slight bit of panic.

"I am going to be completely honest, I never thought I would see this day. Maya, monogamy is for the weak, Bishop settling down. This must be a complete shock to your system."

"Well, technically we aren't in a real relationship. I know this sounds weird but it really is just a business agreement." Maya argued.

"Sure, sure" Vic laughed "I don't really believe that completely."

"Why?" Maya faces scrunched in confusion "We are literally able to see who ever we want on the side, just maintaining the public image for the business."

"When was the last time you bought one of my paintings for a co-worker." Vic paused as she could see the words washing over Maya.

"Exactly, never. Well once you bought one for your crush but that one turned out to be a rotten apple so we won't mention that" Vic then barely whispered "Monica" then resuming normal voice continued. "So I would say this is somewhat different than your run of the mill co-worker."

Maya smiled "Just a business agreement Vic, nothing to worry about. And what is this Jack said about you finding a new someone?"

"It's new ok, very new." Vic smiled reaching from ear to ear. "But oh so good."

Maya laughed at Vic's emphasis on the words. "Right, well treat her well. Don't do anything I wouldn't do. Got to run. Thanks again you are amazing."

"That's easy," Vic called after Maya "Seriously, you have done everything that you shouldn't do in a relationship. So I am definitely going to do what you wouldn't do. Have a great weekend"

"Ha Ha Ha" Maya responded as she hopped into her Mercedes.

— — —

With Carina moving in the next day, Maya decided to recruit her friends Jack and Andy to help clear out some unneeded furniture. They agreed, enticed by the promise of beer and good food. Carlos, the cook, had agreed to prepare a meal for them to enjoy after the hard work.

Jack and Andy arrived at the penthouse in the late afternoon, ready to help. Maya greeted them with a grateful smile.

"Thanks for coming, guys. I really appreciate it," Maya said, leading them to the living room.

"No problem, Maya," Jack replied, surveying the furniture. "We're happy to help."

Andy nodded, rolling up her sleeves. "Let's get to it."

They began moving the unneeded furniture to the building's storage unit. The work was physically demanding, but the three friends made it fun with their banter and camaraderie.

"How does it feel knowing Carina's moving in tomorrow?" Andy asked, lifting a side table.

Maya paused, thinking. "It feels...exciting but a bit nerve-wracking. It's a big step."

Jack grinned. "You'll be fine. Carina's great, and you two seem to have a good understanding."

After a few hours of heavy lifting and rearranging, the penthouse was ready for Carina. The space felt more open and welcoming. Maya looked around, satisfied with their work.

"Thanks again, guys. You've been amazing," Maya said.

"No problem," Andy replied, wiping her brow. "Now, about that beer and food..."

Maya laughed. "Carlos should have everything ready. Let's head to the dining area."

They made their way to the dining room, where Carlos had set up a feast of steaks and potatoes. The delicious aroma filled the air, making their mouths water.

"Smells amazing, Carlos," Jack said, taking a seat.

Carlos smiled. "Enjoy, everyone. You've earned it."

As they dug into the meal, the conversation flowed easily. They talked about work, life, and everything in between.

"So, Maya," Andy began, cutting into her steak. "How's the legal world treating you?"

Maya shrugged, smiling. "Busy as always. But I love it. What about you two? Any exciting projects?"

Jack nodded. "I've been working on a big case recently. It's challenging but rewarding."

Andy grinned. "Just got back from a rescue mission. Adrenaline rush, as always. I didn't realize all the different responsibilities a paramedic was responsible for but it always keeps me on my toes. Although the family is struggling with the decision, I wake up every day happy to go to work."

"Yes, I understand the pressure of a family" Maya laughed "But you are making a real difference in the world, they should respect that. Sometimes I wish I would have had your balls to go off and do my own in this world rather than fall into the family business."

Maya and Andy had grown up together both in wealthy families. Maya had always been slightly envious of Andy escaping the confines of what was expected as an heir to wealthy family.

Maya felt a sense of warmth and gratitude for her friends. "I'm glad we could do this. It means a lot to me. This will probably be the last time in the next 1.5 years that it's just us chilling in the Penthouse like old times."

Jack raised his beer. "To friends and new beginnings."

They clinked their bottles together, toasting to the future.

— — —

Carina began packing up her apartment with the help of her friends Jo and Gabrielle. They turned on some music and made a day of it, chatting and laughing as they worked.

"What are you going to do with your empty apartment," Jo remarked, folding clothes to go into a suitcase.

"Storage mostly," Carina said, taping up a box. "It's just a temporary move, in a 1.5 years I will need it again. But for now it's a new chapter. I'm excited about the possibilities."

Gabrielle grinned. "And you're moving into a penthouse! That's pretty swanky."

Carina laughed. "Yeah, it's definitely a change of pace. But I think it's going to be good."

Jo gave her a reassuring smile. "You deserve good things, Carina. Just take it one step at a time."

"So" Gabrielle started "Have you thought about a potential sublet?"

"I'm not moving a lot of my things so the thought hadn't crossed my mind. Why?" Carina smiled "Is someone looking for a bit more of a permanent residence in Seattle now that someone has a special person?"

"Possibly?" Gabrielle laughed

"Well I would definitely be open to that," Carina smiled "But you would definitely be buying me a new mattress at the end of it."

Gabrielle just laughed, "Ok"

They had planned to pack up Carina's car and Maya agreed to bring the Range Rover over to help move any boxes. Carina had quickly learned that Maya was a car enthusiast and had 5 to be exact. So she was not at all surprised when Maya suggested using her SUV to help with the move.

— — —

Maya arrived at Carina's apartment with her sleeves rolled up, ready to help. Jo and Gabrielle were already there, organizing boxes and making sure everything was ready to go.

"Morning, everyone," Maya greeted as she walked in. "Ready to get started?"

"Absolutely," Carina said with a smile. "Thanks for coming to help."

"Of course," Maya replied, picking up a box. "Let's get this show on the road."

They spent the next few hours moving Carina's belongings, loading them into the SUV, and transporting them to the penthouse.

Maya stopped after almost all boxes were loaded into the SUV, "I totally thought there would be so much more than this."

"Well your penthouse is already furnished for the most part, so I just really needed personal items." Carina smiled as she stacked a box in her car.

"Right," Maya said almost to herself.

"Besides this is just really 1.5 year temporary living situation, correct?" Carina continued shutting the doors to the cars.

"You are correct." As the words left Maya's mouth they didn't feel right but she couldn't figure out why she had that feeling.

"Lunch and drinks at the Penthouse, Jo and Gabrielle." Maya called out.

"Sounds like an awesome plan." Jo responded.

— — —

Carina grabbed a few items and headed up towards the Penthouse. Maya was secretly wondering if Carina would like the painting she got her, after all she really didn't know her style.

As she stepped into the room, her eyes were immediately drawn to a large, wrapped package leaning against the wall. Intrigued, she walked over to it, noticing a small note attached to the top.

Carina,

Welcome to your new home. I wanted to give you something special to mark this new beginning. I hope you love it as much as I do.

- Maya

Carina smiled, touched by Maya's thoughtfulness. She carefully unwrapped the package, revealing the beautiful painting Vic had created. The colors and abstract landscape were stunning, evoking a sense of peace and tranquility. It was perfect.

Maya had just finished with the boxes into the service elevator when she walked through the front door.

"So you do really have good taste, you just choose to not exercise that talent?" Carina questioned catching Maya off guard.

"Oh, you found your moving day present." Maya smiled "I can't really take claim for that, a friend is responsible for painting it. I just picked it up."

"Well it's amazing, where do you want to hang it.' Carina smiled

"I thought that was going to be your thing, the decorating and all.I was expecting to answer some yes or no questions related to different objects or placements." Maya said rubbing the back of her neck with her hand.

"Well then, I think we should hang this in the living room. What do you think Maya?" Carina laughed

"Yes," Maya replied confident in her answer.

Gabrielle and Jo then appeared in the door way, "so we are just the hired hands and they carried boxes into the Penthouse." Gabrielle remarked. Carina quickly motioned to them in the direction of her room.

Gabrielle stopped for a split second to look at the new paining. "That's pretty awesome, local artist?"

"Yes, one of Maya's friends." Carina replied.

After all the boxes were put into the rooms needed, the four took a break for lunch and to relax some.

"This place is huge" Jo said with her eye getting big as she looked around.

"Would you like an official tour," Maya asked.

Maya gave the three the official tour showing all the rooms. Maya then retreated to the office to handle some business with Carina, Jo and Gabrielle began to unpack.

— — —

With the engagement party fast approaching Maya was trying to get some work tied up to free the entire weekend up for all of the events to come. She sat back in her office chair and thought she would have never imagined herself here less than 3 months ago.

Maya's phone rang popping up with her father's name. Maya rolled her eyes, what now was all she could think.

"Hello" Maya answered

"Maya, do you have a moment?" Lane asked, his tone serious.

"Of course, Dad. What's up?" Maya replied, leaning back in her chair.

"I've been thinking about the engagement party coming up next week," Lane began. "Do you have an engagement ring for Carina?"

Maya's heart skipped a beat. In all the chaos and planning, she hadn't even thought about an engagement ring. "No, I haven't gotten one yet."

Lane sighed. "Maya, it's important. An engagement ring is a symbol of your commitment. You need to have one before the party."

Maya nodded, understanding the significance. "You're right. I'll take care of it."

Lane's tone softened. "I know this is a lot, but I believe in you. Make it something special."

After he hung up Maya stated "Make it something to stand out so the press can think this is a real marriage." She hung her head rubbing her temples for a few minutes.

Maya texted Andy for help in finding a ring. Immediately, she responded that she was on the task. After a few teasing statements about most people have a general idea of the rings they liked but because Maya never saw this in her future she was behind the times.

— — —

With the first evening of just Maya and Carina in the Penthouse, Maya asked Carlos to make dinner but then had the staff off the rest of the night.

While enjoying dinner at the bar in the kitchen together Carina was non-stop talking about all the ideas she had for decorating and everything in the apartment. Maya just sat still trying to take it all in. This was an adjustment, usually her evening meals were quiet and on the off chance she did have company it was a much slower paced conversation.

Maya just nodded and smiled trying to follow Carina through all of the different topics. Maya's phone began to continually buzz throughout the meal.

At first Maya had just flipped her phone over to stay in the conversation but as it continued to buzz it caught Carina's ear.

"Do you need to answer that?" Carina questioned

"No, just a friend. I will respond later after dinner" Maya said taking another bite.

Carina then continued to talk about the inspiration she had for the living room, while Maya's phone continued to buzz.

"It seems important" Carina questioned again.

Maya quickly grabbed her phone scrolling through the messages angling the phone just out of Carina's eyesight. Andy was blowing up her phone with different picture of rings. Although this was a business agreement as they stated, Maya wanted to surprise Carina a little with the ring.

Carina could see the smile on Maya's face as she scrolled through the messages and all of sudden she caught herself with a slight twist of jealousy. This confused her, here she was sitting in Maya's penthouse discussing how she was going to decorate it how she wanted, how could she be jealous over a few text messages but nonetheless she felt it.

Maya realizing she had been looking at her phone too long, put it in her pocket and began to gather the dishes from dinner.

"Sorry, I just had Andy researching something and she is sending the results over now." Maya said looking up towards Carina who was finishing her wine.

Carina hesitated for a moment before speaking again. "How did you and Andy meet, anyway? You seem pretty close."

Maya looked up, sensing an undertone of curiosity—or was it jealousy?—in Carina's question. She decided to be open and share.

"Oh, Andy and I go way back," Maya began. "We met as kids. Our families were very close and so we ended up doing a lot of things together as kids. After high school we stayed in touch even though we both chose wildly different career paths."

Carina nodded, but there was a hint of something in her eyes. "It sounds like you two have a strong bond. Do you hang out a lot?"

Maya tilted her head, picking up on the slight edge in Carina's tone. "We do hang out sometimes. She's helped me out with a few things over the years. She's a good friend. Sometimes I wish I had the balls she had to stand up to my family and dictate my own path in life."

Carina's gaze lingered on Maya's phone, still buzzing with messages. "I see. I guess you've been in touch with her a lot lately."

Maya caught the hint of jealousy in Carina's voice and tried to address it gently. "Andy's just been sending me the research I asked for."

"Oh is she a lawyer too?" Carina asked

"Nope, she is a paramedic but I am relying on her expertise in this category right now" Maya quickly found the words hoping she saved the conversation, knowing all to well she was being evasive and hoping Carina wouldn't call her out. It was the first night in the house and already a tense conversation.

Carina realizing she may have come off a bit strong in this conversation, quickly shifted topics. "So should I wash the dishes. I feel terrible leaving them for Heather in the morning."

"Usually I just rinse them and put them in the dishwasher." Maya replied "Nothing to fancy, it is usually just a few dishes from dinner."

"What time do the staff usually get here in the morning?" Carina asks helping Maya load the dishwasher.

"It depends really, Heather is usually her mid morning. Adam is available in the mornings for your commute if you want but he you just have to let him know. He actually live in the building next to us so he is never that far away. And Carlos is usually by around lunchtime unless we have requested an earlier meal time."

"All of their numbers are on the board in the pantry, if you ever need. Oh, and also the spare keys to the cars if you need are in this cabinet." Maya opened the cabinet revealing the keys to Carina.

"It will probably take a little bit to adjust but I hope you do enjoy yourself while you are here." Maya finished putting the last dish in the dishwasher closing it.

"Alright, Mi Casa is Su Casa. I am going to hit the gym for a bit and then probably crash early. I didn't sleep to well last night after drinking a bit and moving all the furniture around." Maya motioned her arms around in a circle.

"Thank you for everything" Carina responded "I think I may unpack more and explore some."

"Text/Call me if you need anything. I am just on the other side of the apartment." Maya said walking toward the gym smiling.

— — —

Carina decided to take a leisurely tour of the apartment, discovering new rooms and spaces. Her curiosity led her to the home gym, where Maya was working out.

As Carina walked by the gym, she saw Maya focused on her workout, AirPods in place, lifting weights with a determined expression. The gym was well-equipped, with various machines and free weights neatly arranged. Maya was oblivious to Carina outside the gym.

Carina's attention was immediately drawn to Maya's form as she moved. She couldn't help but notice the outline of a bulge in Maya's sweatpants, which became more pronounced with each lift. The sight was unexpected and elicited an intense reaction from Carina.

Gabrielle had been right, Maya had to be well endowed with the size of that bulge. She could instantly feel a pool of arousal in her panties. She hadn't had this reaction to someone, ever, if she thought back over all of her partners. Certainly not just by the sight of their clothed bodies.

Her heart raced, and she felt a sudden flush of arousal shoot again as Maya changed to squats. She tried to ignore it, but the sight of Maya, so focused and strong, only heightened her feelings. The perfect muscle outline could be seen through Maya's shirt and her perfectly toned abs were visible where her shirt had slightly ridden up during the workout. Carina's face turned red with embarrassment and confusion as she tried to process what she was experiencing.

Not wanting to be caught and knowing full and well her underwear was not ruined she retreated to her room.

Carina lay back on her bed, trying to center her thoughts. She let her mind wander to what she had seen earlier, allowing the image to fuel her desires. Her breathing became more intense as she began to explore her own body, seeking to release the tension that had built up.

She slid her hand down into her pants immediately met with the slick of her arousal. Not having finished unpacking all of her items she couldn't find her vibrator but needed relief quickly. Carina settled on using her hand for release.

As she focused on her sensations, Carina felt a mix of pleasure and frustration. She was still processing the new and confusing feelings she had toward Maya, and the arousal only added to her inner conflict. She began to run her fingers through her folds and encircling her clit.

She began rolling her hips as she inserted one finger. With it easily sliding in and out she quickly added another finger curling her fingers so they hit just the right spot causing her hips to buck off the bed slightly with each thrust. She could hear the liquid sounds of her fingers slipping in and out her folds as she thrust them in and out.

She knew she was going to last much longer, her free hand found her nipple and began rolling it in between her fingertips. After a few more thrusts she let out a gasp, stiff and trembling as her pussy quivered around her fingers, hips rocking as she came, a spurt of fluid gushing down her inner thighs.

After reaching a state of relief, Carina lay there, feeling a mix of satisfaction and confusion. The physical release had helped ease her immediate feelings, but it had also left her with more questions about her emotions and her attraction to Maya.