Page 78 of Loving Lauren
“This place has good light for your makeup work.” Sierra walked through the second bedroom of what had to be their fifteenth apartment viewing. “And it’s got that big window you always wanted for color matching.”
Lauren stood in the doorway, imagining where their vanity station and product storage could go. “It’s perfect. But are you sure you’re okay with me taking over an entire room?”
“Babe, your work is important.” Sierra wrapped her arms around Lauren from behind. “Besides, I love watching you transform people. You deserve a proper studio space.”
Their rental agent, Janet, poked her head in. “The kitchen’s been updated, and there’s a breakfast nook that gets amazing morning light.”
Sierra and Lauren exchanged a look. They’d been cautious for months, rebuilding piece by piece. But their leases were both up next month, and the idea of not waking up together every morning felt wrong.
Sierra walked into the kitchen. “What do you think?”
“I think Salem is going to love that big windowsill in the living room.”
“Is that a yes?”
“That’s definitely a yes.”
Moving day was a kind of joyful chaos only The Inner Circle could create, fueled by coffee, donuts, and far too much commentary about box labels.
Ellis groaned, hefting a carton labeledSierra’s Photography Collection.“Why do you own so many books?”
“Knowledge is power.” Sierra directed Thalia and Raven as they unpacked essentials. “And some of those are first editions.”
“Your girlfriend collects vintage photography books like some people collect stamps.” Calliope huffed under the weight of another box. “Jett, please tell me your boyfriend’s collection is less back-breaking.”
“Ellis mostly collects vintage concert tees and an alarming number of houseplants.” Jett carried Salem’s carrier with the reverence of someone who knew not to underestimate the cat’s opinions.
Lauren emerged from what was now officially their bedroom, holding up two sets of sheets. “Blue ones or gray ones?”
“Blue. They’re softer, and Salem likes them better.”
Ellis raised a brow. “How do you know Salem has sheet preferences?”
“Oh, he has opinions about everything,” Lauren said solemnly. “Thread count, fabric softener brands, which side of the bed gets the best sun. He’s very particular.”
As if summoned, Salem let out an imperious meow from his carrier.
“See?” Lauren exclaimed. “He’s demanding to inspect his new kingdom.”
Thalia released him, and Salem immediately began a thorough patrol of every corner. When he reached the living room window, he perched with obvious satisfaction and began grooming.
“Approval granted.” Sierra laughed. “We can officially call this home.”
That night, after the last box was dragged inside and the Inner Circle finally dispersed, Sierra and Lauren stood in their bedroom surrounded by the mingled evidence of their lives. Her tripods leaned against the wall beside Lauren’s makeup kit. Their clothes tumbled together across the unmade bed.
“I can’t believe we did it.” Lauren’s voice was hushed, reverent.
“We did.” Sierra stepped closer. “Our room. Our bed. Our home.”
Something shifted in the air. The exhaustion from moving day melted into a slow burn that felt like belonging.
“Our first night,” Lauren whispered.
Sierra cupped their face. “How does it feel?”
“Like everything finally makes sense.” Lauren leaned into her touch. “Like we’re exactly where we’re supposed to be.”
When Sierra kissed them, it was sweet at first, but deepened quickly, urgency sparking beneath the tenderness. This wasn’tjust want. It was proof. Celebration. A vow carried in touch instead of words.
