Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It was a warm Sunday afternoon in LA. Juliana had just finished a particularly intense pilates session. She was sweaty, sore and tired, and in need of a relaxing bath. As she walked out of the studio she saw Sergio leaning against the wall.

“Are you just here to perve on the women in activewear?”

“No. I am also here to convince you to come out tonight.” Sergio couldn’t help but admire Juliana’s plump backside that had somehow gotten even more voluptuous and beautiful with the pilates.

“Why? Who are you trying to sleep with now?” Juliana took her hair out of its messy pony tale and plaited it to the side.

“Lucho made friends with this really hot group of girls he met playing golf. They are going to be at this bar opening by the pier. You have to come. I need your wing woman skills.” Sergio put his arm around her and squeezed, trying to coax her into coming.

“What is in it for me?”

“I will pay for your flights to Vegas… Business class.”

“Seriously?”

Sergio reluctantly nodded.

Juliana was so pumped. Sergio had organised a friend's trip to Vegas for his 30th birthday in a few weeks. He booked the penthouse suite for the 3 of them, and promised a limo, burlesque shows and unlimited bottle service. Juliana had been trying to save up for the flights but with her rent and the cost of acting classes, money was tight. She had never flown business class.

Juliana pulled him into a crushing hug.

“You smell bad.”

Juliana went on to rub her sweaty body all over his clean ironed button up. She chuckled as he recoiled in disgust.

A few hours later, after an ‘everything’ shower, Juliana dressed herself in skin-tight black high-waisted jeans, a red crop-top, denim jacket and black vans. Her hair had dried in silky waves that reached just past her shoulders.

For some reason she felt tingly. Along her thighs, stomach and chest. Like snowflakes were melting down her body. She usually only felt like this after a few glasses of wine. Mum used to tell her that her body would know when her life was about to change. Your body will know when something good is happening. You will feel on fire. Like fireworks are shooting across your skin. That is what I felt when I met Panchito.

Sergio picked her up in his black Tesla. “Not drinking tonight?”

“No, I am gonna be a good boy tonight. I am on the hunt for a wife.”

“I’m not sure that’s a good idea. You are less insufferable when you have been drinking.” Juliana chuckles.

Sergio elbows her as he takes a sharp corner.

Lucho was meeting them there after having dinner with his parents. He was a big mummy’s boy. Even though he lived in his own bachelor pad, his mum still came over almost everyday to cook and clean for him. No wonder he was still single.

The new bar was reminiscent of Greece. Blue and white furniture, greenery, lots of food and alcohol. The air smelled of lemon, garlic and olive oil. Not the type of place Lucho would usually frequent, but I guess he must really be into this group of girls. They spotted Lucho at the bar.

Juliana hugged Lucho. “So where are these ‘hot af’ girls? They aren’t just in your imagination again.”

“Seriously, Juliana. This one girl is so hot, like a Victoria Secret model.” He grinned like a giddy school boy.

Lucho pointed at a booth to the right of the bar, right near the bonfire. There was a group of about 4 girls and 2 guys. Overall, they seemed like a moderately attractive group. People who would definitely get swiped right. But Sergio or Lucho might be in with a chance. Juliana was gonna have a tough job bringing out their down to earth charm and classy humour.

Juliana needed a drink. “Can I have a Margarita please?”

“Can you make that 2?” A tall girl appeared out of nowhere beside Juliana. “Sorry, I am so thirsty.” The girl was otherworldly. She had tricoloured wavy golden hair, deep cerulean eyes, plump red lips and the most charming smile Juliana had ever seen. She couldn’t stop staring at this beautiful creature.

“Is there something in my teeth?”

“No, sorry. You just have… Like the… prettiest face I have ever seen.”

The blue eyed girl blushed and took Juliana’s hand in hers. “You’re gorgeous.”

It was Juliana’s turn to turn red and look away.

The margaritas arrived and the blue eyed girl paid for the drinks before Juliana could protest. The whole time they were still holding hands. They both took a sip of their drinks and nodded in appreciation of the sour, sweet and salty hit of alcohol.

“I’m Juliana. What’s your name?”

“Valentina. It’s nice to meet you.”

Juliana finally allowed herself to take Valentina in from head to toe. Her navy strapless dress clung to her slight frame and accentuated her small waist. It had a long slit that revealed her long leg and milky thigh.

Valentina did the same and was taken aback by Juliana’s toned stomach, curvy legs and shapely ass. Even though she was pretty sure she was straight, she could still appreciate a nice booty.

“Come and meet my friends, they are over there.” Valentina pointed to the group from before, right where Sergio and Lucho were already getting acquainted with the girls.

“No way, those two are my friends. I came with them tonight.”

“You’re Lucho’s friend?”

Juliana nodded.

“You must be the Victoria Secret model,” Juliana muttered.

“What?” Valentina laughed.

“Nothing.”

They walked over to the group, still hand in hand. Valentina went around and introduced Juliana to everyone individually like she was the guest of honour. She made sure everyone knew that Juliana was her friend.

Renata, Valentina’s friend, asked, “What do you do for work, Juliana?”

“Oh, I am an actor. I have only had a couple of small professional jobs, but I am starting drama school in a couple of weeks. To pay the rent I work at an art gallery.”

“That’s so cool. You totally have the look for it.” Renata replied.

“Yeah, I bet you are really talented,” stated Valentina. “What drama school?”

“USC School of Dramatic Arts.”

Valentina squeezed her hand. “That’s so awesome.”

Juliana blushed and brushed off their comments. “How about you guys?”

Renata talked excitedly about her lavish life as a real estate agent for her dad’s agency. She has a couple of clients that are NBA players.

Valentina was less passionate when she spoke of studying a double degree in journalism and commerce. She was also interning at her father's media company, but she found it mundane.

“I can see that. You interviewing criminals, chasing after them in your trench coat.”

Valentina chuckled, throwing her head back. Juliana had never heard such a beautiful sound and wished she could listen to it forever. “You’re cute.” Valentina tucked a piece of hair behind Juliana’s ear.

They maintained eye contact for so long that Renata had to clear her throat to get Valentina’s attention.

Lucho and Sergio appeared beside them.

“Juli, there you are. You’ve met Valentina?” Lucho said.

“Yes, I have. She was nice enough to buy me this Margarita.”

“You have a sweet friend, Lucho.”

“She’s alright,” Sergio sarcastically remarks.

“Hey!” Juliana pushes him by the shoulder.

“How come neither of you have snapped her up?” Valentina asked.

Lucho laughs. Sergio joins in.

“This one? Juliana? She’s not bad looking but god, you should see her in the morning.”

“And when she is hangry or tired, she is a major bitch.”

Valentina looks to Juliana to check that she is okay with the comments. Juliana just chuckles and pretends to tackle the two of them.

“They both tried to ask me out over the years, but I couldn't go there. They are like brothers and they aren't really my type.”

Valentina grinned, glad to know that Juliana wasn’t being pursued by either of them. She also wondered what Juliana's type was.

Lucho whispered something in Valentina’s ear and she nodded. “We’re gonna go dance. See you out there?” Valentina looked to Juliana silently asking her to come along.

“I’m just gonna finish my drink first.”

Juliana pretended to listen to Renata and Sergio flirt and name drop and talk about their expensive materialistic items, but she was really just sipping her Margarita and watching Valentina sway to the music. Her eyes were closed, her arms were in the air and her hips were rotating in the most delicious way. Her right leg was shiny with sweat and very enticing. Juliana had admired women before, even had thoughts of kissing them. But never, not once, had she had the urge to take a woman home and completely devour her. Until now. Until Valentina.

Lucho was swaying between Valentina and then placed his hand on her waist. Juliana would have been jealous if it was not for the fact that Valentina’s eyes were now open and locked on hers. Valentina ran her hand down her chest and bit her plump bottom lip as she danced. Juliana blushed and Valentina smirked.

Juliana sculled the last of her drink and walked towards them. Valentina grinned, pleased with herself.

“Can I cut in?” asked Juliana.

"Sure." Lucho walked away to the bar.

“Finally,” stated Valentina. “I was wondering when you were going to get the hint.”

Juliana and Valentina’s eyes were locked. No one else existed at that moment. Juliana, emboldened by the alcohol, ran her hand down Valentina’s soft arm and took her hand. She brought Valentina’s hand to her shoulder, and she placed her hand on her waist. They brought their bodies closer together and swayed to the slow Ed Sheeran song.

“You are surprising,” Valentina states with a grin.

“What do you mean?” Juliana smiled nervously.

Valentina leans forward and whispers in her ear. “One minute you seem so flustered and unsure, and the next you are taking what you want. It’s really hot.” She leans back and stares heatedly at Juliana.

Juliana laughs. “I’m not normally like this… I think you are just so... intriguing.”

“Intriguing?... Is that so?” Valentina bites her lip again. “What else do you think about me?” Valentina runs her hand up to Juliana’s neck and rubs the skin there.

“I think you are charming… and fun… and so fucking sexy.”

Valentina blushes and places her forehead on Juliana’s shoulder.

“Look who is all flustered now!” Juliana jokes.

Valentina lifts her head with a smirk. She slowly trails her hand down Juliana’s chest and onto her flat toned stomach. She circles the naked skin with her fingers.

Juliana breaths heavily through the touches.

Valentina then hooks her finger through a loop in Juliana’s jeans. “What are you gonna do now?”

Juliana could only focus on the pink, plump, teasing lips in front of her. Valentina noticed and wet them. They both moved forward at a snail’s pace, waiting to see if the other would pull out at the last minute. Juliana’s hand went to the back of Valentina’s neck, massaging her scalp. Valentina’s hand on the side of Juliana’ side. They soon felt the warmth of each other's breath and there was no turning back. Juliana’s lips caressed Valentina’s. A soft and gentle touch to begin. Valentina sighed into the kiss like she was relieved at the sensation. They changed angles and their mouths pressed together more firmly. They teased each other's lips open and their tongues wrestled softly. Juliana bit down softly on Valentina’s plump bottom lip and Valentina let out a moan. After a few minutes, they parted to come up for air. They laughed as they noticed each other's swollen lips and smudged lipstick.

Juliana wiped away the red lipstick on Valentina’s chin with her thumb.

“Did you want to get out of here?” Asked Valentina with a nervous tone.

“Yes.” Juliana grinned. Tonight her life was really going to change.

Chapter Text

Val took Jul’s hand and pulled her towards the exit.

“I’m just gonna message Sergio and Lucho.”

Val nodded and requested an Uber.

They stood hand in hand on the sidewalk waiting for their ride. Val was quiet for the first time and fidgeted with the zip on her handbag.

Juls removed her hand from Val’s and put it around Val’s shoulders. Rubbing the bare skin in a reassuring way.

Val smiled and dropped her head to rest on Juls’s shoulder. She had only just met the brunette, but felt so comfortable. So at home, like they had been in each other’s lives for years.

“You smell so good. What perfume is that?”

Juls laughed. “I don’t really like perfume. I use a cucumber and aloe vera body wash.”

Val turned her head to get a better sniff. Her nose lightly brushed Juls’s neck and she shivered in response to her warm breath. “Yum. I could eat you up.”

Juls blushed and laughed awkwardly at the sexual innuendo in that statement.

Val was not shy about her sexuality. She meant that statement in every sense. Even though she had never been with a girl before, she knew that she was attracted to Juls. She wanted to feel, taste and devour every inch of her body and make her blissed out in ectasy.

The black SUV uber arrived in front of them. Val got in first and Juls followed suit. Val made sure to pull Juls over so that she was sitting right next to her. She didn’t want any space between them. Juls happily complied, overwhelmed by the feeling of Val’s bare leg up against hers.

Emboldened by the alcohol and flirting, moved her hand from her lap onto Val’s knee. She rubbed circles on the soft skin there.

Val felt tingling from that spot on her leg, run up her stomach and into her chest. She sucked in a deep shaky breath.

This spurred Juls on as she ran her hand further up Val’s leg, to her mid thigh and softly squeezed the pale, soft flesh there.

Val bit her lip and rested her hand on top of Juls’s, stilling her ministrations and alerting Juls to the fact that they weren’t in private.

A few minutes later they arrived at Val’s townhouse in Malibu. It was all modern with sharp white edges and large windows.

“Wow. Is this yours?” Juls asked.

Val giggled. “It belongs to my dad. I rent it with my best friend, Antonia. She is currently travelling around Europe so I currently have it all to myself.”

They thanked the Uber driver and walked up to the front door. Through the window Juls could see a little grey Italian greyhound jumping and barking excitedly. Val unlocked the door and knelt down to greet the little one.

“This is Barnaby, Antonia’s fur baby. My step son.”

Juls knelt down too, as Barnaby jumped up to kiss her cheek. Juls chuckled and welcomed the wet kisses.

“Barnaby, back off! She’s mine,” Val joked.

Juls turned to meet Val’s eyes. “Is that so? If I’m yours, prove it.”

Val pulled Juls up, dropped her belongings on the bench and enthusiastically dragged her upstairs. They entered a large bedroom and Val closed the door so that they wouldn’t be disturbed by Barnaby.

Juls walked around the room, taking in all the details of Val’s space. The large circular bed, the ocean view, the large sparkly chandelier, and the colourful abstract painting on the wall. It had all the colours and textures of the forest, but with geometric shapes.

“Is that a Paola Nigin?”

“Yeah, how did you know?”

“I am a big fan of hers. We had her exhibition at the gallery a couple of years back. She is so amazing and donated half of her proceeds to the children’s hospital.”

“Small world.”

Juls grinned and nodded.

Val moved to sit on her bed. Juls joined her and put her hand back on Val’s thigh. Val was quiet once again.

Juls spoke, “We don’t have to do anything.”

“No,” Val stated. “I want to. I really do. I just… I’ve never been with a woman.”

Juls squeezed her leg. “Me neither. I have only really kissed a girl. Maybe got to second base… We can work it out together.”

Val smiled. “You always know the right thing to say.”

Juls laughed. “I read way too many romance novels, that’s why. I picked up all the cheesy lines.”

“So you’re a romantic?” Val tucked a piece of hair behind Juls’s ear.

“A hopeless one.”

Val stood, pulled her hair to the side and turned around. “Can you unzip me?”

Juls was overwhelmed at the sight of Val’s bare upper back. Perfectly soft and toned. “Sure,” she blurted out. She stood up and slowly pulled the zipper down on Val’s navy dress. It revealed a bare spine. “Done.”

Val held her dress to her body and turned around. When Juls made eye contact with her she let go of her hold on the dress. It slowly slid down her lean body, leaving Val in nothing but a lacy pair of black underwear.

Juls’s mouth went slack. She couldn’t help but admire the most beautiful body she had ever seen. Val had the most exquisite long and athletic legs, flat soft stomach and small perky breasts. Juls was overwhelmed by the prospect of getting to touch this body in such an intimate way. She didn’t feel deserving of this piece of art.

Val had never seen someone look at her the way Juls was right now. Juls wasn’t looking at her like a piece of meat, like a sexual object. She was admiring her body like it was a piece of delicate art. Like the most rare Monet painting.

Juls blinked and said, “Sorry for staring. You are just so beautiful, Val. Every inch of you.”

Val blushed and moved closer to her. Tugging on Juli’s hands and placing them on her hips. Silently telling Juls that she could touch her.

Juls took the time to run her fingertips over Val’s smooth stomach and up to her waist.

Val shivered at the touch but enjoyed the ripple of sparks Juls was causing.

Juls moved her hands upwards, ghosting just below Val’s breasts.

“Please,” Val said.

Juls rang her thumb over the underside of Val’s breast. She then ran her thumb over Val’s nipple.

Juls remembered what had felt good to her in the past and took her thumb into her mouth and rubbed it over Val’s nipple.

Val’s breath hitched.

Juls leaned in and pressed her lips against Val’s again.

Val brought her hand to Juli’s neck to keep her close as they explored each other’s mouths again.

Juli continued to tease and squeeze Val’s breasts as their tongues wrestled.

Val moaned into the kiss when Juli pinched her nipple.

“My turn,” Val stated as she pushed Juli back onto the bed.

Val helped Juli out of her jeans. It took a minute to pull the tight black denim off her shapely legs. Val took the time to run her hands down the tanned thighs. Goosebumps appeared where her hands had just been.

Juls pulled the red crop top over her head.

Val straddled Juls and began unhooking her red bra. It dropped into her lap and revealed the most supple, full, tanned breasts Val had ever seen. She brought her hands up to cup them and Juls shivered in response. They were so soft and warm under her hands. She couldn’t restrain herself any longer and leaned forward and kissed them.

She kissed across the top and the bottom, and then took one of the nipples into her mouth, sucking and licking the sensitive bud.

Juls threw her head back and moaned. She had never had someone take such time and care with her breasts. With her exes, it was always too rushed and mechanical. She never knew it could feel this good. After a few minutes, Juls pulled Val’s face back to hers. “I need to kiss you.”

Their kisses grew more urgent and sensual. Lots of tongue and sucking on lips. Val came up for air and moved backwards towards the bed head. She laid back against the pillows and massaged her own breasts. “I need you.”

Juls crawled over to her at lightning speed. “Fuck, you are so sexy.” She situated herself over Val with one leg between Val’s thighs.

Val couldn’t keep her hands off Juls’s hips. She even trailed them to her ass and squeezed the soft flesh there.

Juls leaned down and began leaving soft wet kisses against Val’s jawline, then her neck, collarbone, and breasts.

Val whimpered and arched her back in response to the pleasure. “Please, Juls.”

Juls thought she might orgasm from the sound of Val pleading for her. “What do you want, Val?”

“I want you to touch me.”

Juls grinned. “Your wish is my command.” Juls quickly kissed her way down Val’s stomach, and onto her thighs.

Val opened her legs wider.

Juls moved her kisses into Val’s inner thighs. Kissing from her knee towards her centre. As she got closer, she could smell Val’s wet heat. It was intoxicating. She slowly dragged Val’s underwear down her legs and threw it across the room.

Juls kissed Val on her centre and then ran a finger down her slit. “Fuck, you’re so wet.”

Val moaned at the sight of Juls between her legs, touching her most intimate part like it was treasure. “More, please.”

Juls grinned up at Val and took one long lick up and down her pussy.

Val threw her head back.

Juls took that as a good sign. She kept swiping through Val’s folds, paying extra attention to her clit. Running her tongue in circles over it. “You taste so good.”

Val moaned and arched her back in response.

Juls used her arms to hold Val’s hips down so that she could maintain contact with her centre. She massaged Val’s stomach as she explored Val’s slit.

“Do you want my fingers?”

“Please. Fuck me, Juls.”

Jul’s grinned and slowly entered one finger into Val, as she began sucking on her clit.

Val’s moans got louder which spurred Jul’s on. She then entered another finger and began curling her fingers to try and hit that perfect spot.

“Yes, I fucking love your fingers.”

Juls massaged Val’s breast as she continued sucking and fucking Val.

“Fuck… I’m gonna… cum.” Val’s hips began moving more erratically.

Juls tried to mobilise Val’s hips with one arm as she continued building her up with her fingers and tongue.

“Juls, fuck!” Val began bucking her hips and arching her back.

Juls continued until Val’s body stilled.

She crawled to lay next to Val. She swept Val’s messy blonde hair away from her neck and watched as she came out of her orgasm haze. Her breathing softened and Juls ran her fingers across her collar bone.

“I thought you said you had never been with a woman before.” Val said with her eyes still closed.

“I hadn’t.”

“How did you… I have never… No boy has ever made me feel like that before.”

“Really?”

Val nodded.

“Then they are idiots and missed out… Your body gave me all the clues as to what felt good.”

Val laughed lightly. “You really are something else. Come here.”

Juls kissed her lightly, but Val deepened it, tasting herself on Jul’s tongue. She moaned into the kiss. “Did you enjoy that?”

“Yes, going down on you was the hottest thing I have ever done. I am so wet right now.”

“Good. Cause it’s your turn.” Val grinned and flipped Juls onto her back.

Chapter Text

Juls woke up to the late morning sun beaming in through the balcony window. Val’s body was tucked tightly behind her with her arm lazily strewn across her stomach. It was warm and comforting, but Juls had to use the restroom and get ready for work. She gently lifted Val’s arm and slid out of bed. After using the toilet, she picked up her underwear and bra off the floor and began putting them back on.

“No, don’t get dressed yet. I wanted to go for round 3,” Valentina whined in a cute voice.

Juls laughed lightly but continued to get dressed. “As much as I would love that, I have to get ready for work.”

“What’s the time?” Valentina stretched out, causing the sheets to fall away from her revealing her perky breasts. Juliana felt the heat rise in her again, but she didn’t want to start something she couldn’t finish.

Juls checked her phone. “It’s 11am.”

“Shit. We must have really tired each other out.” Val winked at her. “Let me get you a coffee, how do you take it?” Val jumped out of bed, and threw on an oversized band T-shirt and underwear. She then took off towards the kitchen.

“A double shot with a dash of creamer, thanks.” Juls finished getting dressed and combed her fingers through her hair.

She walked to the kitchen and finally noticed how large and fancy it was. “Do you cook?”

Val laughed. “I wish I could cook. This kitchen is wasted on me. Antonia does most of the cooking, she is really good at Japanese cuisine. I pull my weight with the dishes.”

Juls nodded and smiled. She could picture Val rinsing off plates whilst dancing and singing to herself. God, she would love to see that everyday.

“Do you cook?” Val tips the double shot into a cute greyhound mug.

“A bit. Mum taught me all the staple Mexican dishes like enchiladas, birria, ceviche…”

“No way, I love ceviche. I could eat it for breakfast, lunch and dinner.”

Juls laughed. “That can be arranged.”

Val gave a flirty smile that went to her eyes. “Yeah? How would I return the favour?”

“I know a few things you could do.” Juls maintained eye contact with Val and bit her lip.

Val was so shook she burnt herself on the machine. “Shit.”

Juls went over and helped her run it under running cold water. She held onto Val's hand and checked that she was alright.

“Thanks, I’m just a clutz.”

“You’re cute.”

Val reassured Juls that she was fine and finished off Juls' coffee with a splash of coconut creamer.

Juliana took a sip. “Mmmmm,” she moaned. “That is so good.”

Val blushed a bit remembering similar noises coming from Juls when they made love. No. Fucked. Not that either. Had sex.

Val nodded. “Colombian coffee beans. They have ruined me for any other type of coffee.”

Juls practically skulled her coffee and rinsed out her mug.

Val was just starting on her americano.

Juls’ phone beeped. “My Uber is here.”

Val put down her mug and walked Juls to the door. “Wait, can I have your number? We could… hang out again, if you want.”

Juls smiled. “Yes of course, I was going to ask you the same thing.” Juls typed her number into Val’s phone and sent herself a double heart emoji.

Val and Juls stood there looking at each other like a couple of dumbstruck idiots.

“I had a really great time with you last night. It was really… fun,” said Juls. Great job, Juls. Very eloquent.

“Yes, it was very fun… I’m glad we met. Talk soon?”

Juliana grinned, nodded and jumped in the Uber.

Val waited by the door and watched as Juls’ Uber drove away. She rubbed her hand across her forehead and through her hair. She spoke out loud to herself, “Geeze, Valentina. It was just sex. Calm down.”

Juls spent the whole trip home deciding on what to text to Val. She wanted to reinforce that she wanted to meet up again without coming across as too eager or desperate.

She typed and then backspaced many times. Finally settling on:

---Hey Val, thanks again for last night. I look forward to catching up again xx---

When Val checked her phone and read that message, she couldn’t help but smile and hope that she would see the brunette very soon. At her Sunday family lunch, she was caught daydreaming about Juliana and their ‘fun’ night several times by Guille and Eva.

“What has gotten into you, Val?” said Guille.

Val coughed and tried to act nonchalant. “Nothing. I am just a bit hungover.”

Guille didn’t look convinced, but he knew Val would tell him when she was ready.

Both girls went about their normal lives. Val was busy with her university coursework and internship. Juliana had long shifts at the gallery along with filming self-tapes for auditions.

However, in between these busy moments, both girls reached out to each other as much as they could. They texted back and forth about anything and everything. Volleyball, horror films, family drama and even Harry Potter memes. They had so much in common and similar senses of humour. Their conversations flew naturally and they usually ended up calling each other and talking for hours until they were too sleepy to continue.

On Wednesday, Juls, Sergio and Lucho decided to grab dinner together at their local pub. It was half-price parmigiana night and they were in need of a few beers too.

“So, where did you get off to on Saturday night?” Sergio asked.

“Like I already told you, I got period cramps and went home to sleep. Nothing that interesting.” Juls didn’t like lying to her best friends but she wasn’t ready to admit to her connection with Val, especially since Lucho was interested in her.

“It was so weird, cause Val left early too. Did you see her leave?” said Lucho.

Juls tried to act surprised. “No, I didn’t see her sorry.”

Sergio smirked. “Didn’t I see Valentina leading you away from the dance floor towards the exit?

Juls' internally screams. Caught in a lie which means she has to spill the beans before the boys start speculating.

“Okay, I didn’t have cramps and went home. I went back to Val’s place. We hung out and… hooked up.”

“What do you mean by hooked up? Like make out or like sex… Which base did you get to?” Lucho asked.

Sergio cringed. “Lucho, I don’t think Juls wants to get into the specifics.”

“All the bases,” Juls admitted. “Sorry Lucho. I know you are into her, but we were dancing, and there was this tension building, we kissed and things got pretty heated… it just happened.”

“But Val isn’t even… like that.”

Sergio came to the rescue. “Some people just click, and it looks like Val and Juls did. Don’t take it to heart, bro. I’m pretty sure that Florence chick was into you. She’s pretty and nice.”

Lucho nodded. Deflated but understanding. “Good for you, Juls. God knows you needed to get laid.”

“Shut up.” Juls grinned, happy that both guys reacted quite well.

"You should ask out Florence this weekend," said Juls.

Lucho nodded. "Yeah I think I will."

Juls smiled at Sergio, silently thanking him for helping with Lucho.

Lucho left early as he had an early start the next day.

“So, you and Valentina. Are you guys like dating or is it friends with benefits?”

Juls shook her head. Sergio was such a nosey bastard. “I don’t know. We message everyday. I think we might just be friends.”

“Would you want it to be more than 'just friends'?”

Juls thought for a moment. “I don’t know.”

“Was the sex at least good?” Sergio smirked.

“Perv… Yes, it was next level good. I’ve never enjoyed sex as much as that."

“Wow. I definitely wouldn’t throw that away. Good sex is hard to find.”

Juls laughed. “Yeah, but I also don’t want to ruin this friendship we are building. We get along so well and have so much in common… You know I have always struggled with making and keeping girl-friends.”

“Yeah, that’s tough. But sometimes the best relationships start as friendships.”

Juls patted Sergio on the back. “Look at you being all smart and philosophical.”

It was Wednesday night and both girls were chatting on the phone, vegging out and watching the same episode of The Big Bang Theory.

“Hey Val, are you busy this weekend?”

“I have family lunch on Sunday as usual, but I am free on Saturday. Why?” Val secretly hoped Juls wanted to catch up again.

“There is an amateur volleyball competition at Santa Monica on Saturday. Did you want to come with me? I’ll shout you a snow cone.”

Val smiled. “Yes, I’d love to come. Women in skimpy outfits jumping around and hitting balls, say no more.”

Juls burst out laughing. “Awesome. It starts at 10. I’ll meet you at the snow cone stand at 9:30?”

“I will be there.”

Juls was proud of herself for being brave enough to ask Val out, even though it wasn’t really a date.

Val wasn’t sure if this catch up was a date. She hoped it was or would turn out to be. She was nervous because she didn’t know if things would be awkward with the two of them since their relationship had shifted after sleeping together and flirting over text all week.

Juls spent 2 hours deciding what to wear. She wore her fluro yellow halterneck bikini in case they went for a swim afterwards. She settled on a brown flowy dress with spaghetti straps and a low back. She didn’t usually care too much about what she wore to the beach but in this case, she wanted to look nice for Val. Not that this was a date. Was it?

Val had an everything shower and tied her hair back into a messy bun. She wore her usual black bikini with denim shorts and a black translucent coverup. Val hoped they would swim after. She could imagine them swimming and splashing and tackling each other in the water. Maybe this water play would turn into making out and… Calm down, Val. It probably isn’t even a date.

Juls stood by the snow cone stand fiddling with the edge of her dress. She was so nervous to see Val again, even though they had been texting all week up until 2 minutes ago.

“Juls,” Val called as she ran up and hugged the brunette like they hadn’t seen eachother in months.

“Val,” Juls returned and returned the warm and tight hug.

Their hug lasted longer than usually appropriate for friends, but neither of them seemed to care. They both pulled back and took the other one in.

Val admired Juls’ tan curvy legs against the brown frilly dress. “You look so pretty, Juls.”

Juls blushed. “Thanks, Val. So do you, I love that cover up.” Juls ran her hand over the material covering Val’s arm.

Val took the opportunity to take Juls’ hand in hers. “Let's set up our spot by the net.”

They walked over to the volleyball court, chatting and laughing easily as always. Val was glad that things weren’t as awkward as she had thought.

Juls laid down a large pink towel for them to both sit on. Even though there was plenty of room for them to stretch out, they decided to sit cross-legged, right up against each other. Val took an interest in Juls’ colourful bracelets and fiddled with them as they talked.

“So you used to play volleyball?” Val asked.

“Yeah, I enjoyed it at school and my sports teacher told me I was pretty good and I should join the local team. I played for 3 years, and did okay. My doubles partner is actually playing today.”

“That’s cool. I bet you were really good. You’ve got the… muscles... and legs… Sorry that came out really weird.”

Juls threw her head back and laughed. “Yeah, having legs is kind of a pre-requisite.”

Val face palmed but laughed along with her.

Juls rested her hand on Val’s knee.

“Did you play any sports?”

“No, I am as uncoordinated as a giraffe. I did play the cello though. I played for 10 years, but gave it up when I started my internship. Didn’t have the time or energy to play.”

“Wow, the cello. That is so cool. You should play for me some time.”

Val grinned and nodded. “I’ll play for you when you make me ceviche.”

Juls laughed and put out her pinky. “Deal.”

Valentina hooked her pinky around Juls'.

The girls were enthralled by the 2 matches. They cheered for Juls’ old teammate who went on to win by 3 points. The whole time Juls’ hand was on Val’s knee. Every now and then she would give Val’s knee a squeeze or rub her thumb along the soft skin. They whispered about the tactics each competitor was using. Juls taught Val a few terms and techniques.

“So, enjoying seeing these women in their skimpy outfits?” Juls asked.

Val thought for a moment. “Yeah, they have great athletic bodies, but they don’t compare to someone else I know. I would much prefer to see that someone in a skimpy outfit jumping around.”

Juls blushed and laughed. “This someone must have an amazing body then.”

“They do.” Val ran her hand up and down Juls’ thigh.

They looked into each other’s eyes. The chemistry and sexual tension was building between again. As much as Juls would love to sleep with this wonderful woman again, she wanted to spend the day getting to know her in a deeper and more emotional way.

Juls broke the staring and stood up. “Snow cone?”

Chapter Text

Val and Juls leant against the pier, licking their snow cones. Val got mango flavour whilst Juls got green apple.

Juls couldn’t concentrate on anything but the heavy slurping noises coming from beside her.

Val noticed Juls looking at her funny. “Sorry, I like to suck all the flavour out.”

“No need to apologise,” Juls laughed. "It explains how you developed such a great tongue technique.”

Val almost choked on her ice after that statement.

Juls laughed so hard, she was hunched over.

Once they finished their snow cones, they walked along the boardwalk and chatted about life. They were walking so close together, every now and then their hands would brush.

“So did you end up telling your friends where you ended up Saturday night?”

Juliana laughed. “I wasn’t going to tell them just yet. I didn’t want to upset Lucho since he was so into you, but Sergio gave it away. He said he saw you drag me towards the exit.”

Valentina took hold of Juls’ hand. “Cheeky Sergio… How did Lucho take it?”

“He was a bit shocked. He didn’t think you swung that way. But I think he was okay because he made a good connection with Florence.”

Val nodded, happy to hear that she hadn’t caused any drama between the two childhood best friends.

“Do your friends know about… you being into girls?” Juls asked.

Val scrunched her face. “Umm, I haven’t come out to them per se, but I did tell Renata and Nayeli that I had experimented with a girl. I didn’t want to out you so I didn’t mention your name.”

“That’s fair. I don't mind if you say it was me.”

Val smiled and squeezed Juls’ hand.

“By the way, it wasn’t just an experiment for me.”

Juls blushed. “I know, Val. It wasn’t just an experiment for me either. It was… so much... more.” Juls internally screamed. Why was she so bad with words? Fun, and now more. She really needed to get a Thesaurus.

Val wondered what Juls meant by that. So much more. Did that mean she was developing feelings?

They decided to go for a dip, leaving their belongings on the sand.

Juls couldn’t help but admire Val’s long legs as they ran down the beach.

Val took a moment to admire Juls’ tanned plump bum. She remembered how soft that flesh felt under her hands.

The ocean was calm so they decided to float whilst holding hands. They looked up into the big blue sky and deciphered what each cloud looked like.

“That cloud is a Gryffindor,” said Val.

“How can you tell?”

“It’s just a vibe.”

Juls laughed and gave up on floating.

Val shivered. “It’s cold.”

Juls put her hands on Val’s shoulders. “Here let me help.” She made out like she was going to give her a hug, but instead pushed her under the water.

Val sputtered and came up to the surface with an menacing glare on her face. “You are so dead!” Val went on to tackle Juliana into the water and overload her with splashes.

They laughed and splashed each other until they were tired and water logged. They found themselves with their bodies just inches apart, breathing heavily.

Juls’ eyes were locked on Val’s pink plump lips dripping with sea water. Val was alternating between watching Juls’ lips and deep brown eyes that seemed to penetrate her soul.

Val began to lean in.

Juls froze, unsure whether to give in to the strongest desire she had ever felt, or go with her head.

Juls coughed to break the moment. “Val, maybe we shouldn’t.”

Val’s face fell. “Why? Is it because there are lots of people around? We can go somewhere else…”

“No, it's not the people. I’m not ashamed of this… I just think we need to slow down. Get to know each other. Figure out what we really want… Although we’ve only known each other for a week, you already mean so much to me. I don’t wanna fuck that up with sex.”

“It’s a bit too late for that, Juls. I already know how amazing kissing and touching and sex is with you. It’s hard to be around you and not act on that.”

“Exactly. Maybe we need to take some time to ourselves. Just go back to being just friends and see where it goes.”

Val rolls her eyes and laughs sardonically. “I get it now. You are one of those toxic fuckgirls. You act all into me and make me feel special, and then once you get me into bed you come up with some excuse for ghosting me.”

“No, Val, that’s not what this is..."

Val walked out of the ocean towards her belongings. Juls followed after her.

“Bye Juliana.”

“Val, I don’t want to lose you.”

Both girls had tears welling in their eyes.

Val continued up the beach, not once looking back and got in her car.

Juls was so worried about messing things up that she went ahead and did just that. That night she poured her feelings into a pint of pistachio ice cream and episodes of The Big Bang Theory.

Val shook her head in embarrassment. She had an inkling that Juls was too good to be true. It was just a good fuck, probably made better by the alcohol. She hoped it wouldn’t take long to forget her. She ended her night with two glasses of red wine and The Conjuring.

Chapter Text

For the next few weeks, Juls tried to bury her head in work and auditions. She had run out of money for drama classes, but was excited to start drama school in a month. Unfortunately, the gallery was slow. Not many visitors or new exhibitions to focus on so she spent the time sketching people. On so many occasions the drawings would end up resembling a familiar girl with long gold hair, bright blue eyes and beautiful plump lips. She spent her down time practicing monologues and working out at the gym. All her self-directed anger and frustration, she took out on the treadmill. No matter how hard she tried, each night, just before falling asleep she would picture Val’s smiling face and wish that she was with her. On the bright side, her abs had never looked more toned.

Val wasn’t doing much better. She was mopier than usual at work and procrastinated on her assignments even more than before. She felt like such a fool for opening her legs for someone on the first night. Even greater was the feeling of disappointment. Disappointment that the one person that had ever made her feel seen and like she could maybe fall in love, had abandoned her. It reaffirmed what she had always thought: love is a farce created for books and films.

Life went on, and back to ‘normal’. Or as normal as life could be after losing someone who you thought could be someone really important and special in your life.

3 months later, Juls was starring in her first play at drama school. She was playing Nina in Chekhov’s The Seagull.

Despite all the distraction and excitement with drama school, there were many times that Juls wanted to show up at Val’s place, apologise, explain how she really felt and try to regain Val’s trust. But she knew that Val needed time. She needed time to come to terms with what she wanted out of a relationship and her feelings for Valentina. If they were meant to be, they would come back to each other.

The opening night went really well. Sergio and Lucho were in the front row, cheering Juls on as she took her bows. Juls performed every line with the perfect amount of emotional truth and vulnerability. The boys knew Juls was good after seeing her act in their high school plays, but they had never seen Juls completely evolve into a character like she had for Nina.

They had organised a celebration dinner at the new Italian restaurant down the street, Buoni Amici. Juls was beaming from ear to ear. She truly felt both at home and ten feet high when she was on stage. For the first time in a long while she felt content, that her life was on the right path. They had just ordered some garlic prawns when Sergio spotted a familiar group enter the restaurant and head towards the booth beside them. Luckily Juliana had her back to the door or she might have ditched before their entrees.

Renata, Florence, Nayeli, Kyle and Valentina sat down at the neighbouring booth. Renata immediately noticed Sergio and came forward to hug him.

“No way. Long time no see.”

Florence did the same to Lucho. Those two had gone on a couple dates but found they weren’t on the same page when it came to what they wanted in a family and future.

Valentina finally spotted Juliana and her eyes widened. Juls looked the most beautiful she ever had. Her thick brown hair was curled and flowing down her shoulders. She wore an off the shoulder black dress and a gold necklace choker. Val’s eyes couldn’t stray from her golden toned shoulders and shimmering collar bones. Her makeup made her look like she was glowing.

Juliana’s face went red seeing Val so openly checking her out. She had not imagined seeing Val again this soon and not after such an eventful night. Juls appreciated Val’s tight short red dress that revealed her long legs.

“Hey Val.” Juls waved.

Val replied, “Hey Juls… It’s good to see you.” The air was a little tense but not in a bad way. In a ‘we need to work through some things.’

Juls was super happy that Val wasn’t ignoring her or being overly fake nice. They both obviously wanted to work things out, despite the way their last conversation ended.

Sergio forced Juls to swap seats with him so that she could talk more easily with Val.

“So what have you been up to?” Val asked.

“I started drama school a few months ago. It has been the most crazy and beautiful time of my life. I love it.”

Lucho cut in, “We actually just came from Juls’ debut as Nina in The Seagull. She was brilliant.”

“Oh wow. Congratulations. I am so happy for you.” Val squeezed Juls’ hand and then quickly pulled her hand away, not wanting to confuse each other.

“Thanks, Val.”

Sergio opened his phone and showed off Juls’ headshot and production photos which showed her acting on stage in full costume and make up. He looked like a proud big brother showing off his talented little sister.

As the others continued chatting as a group, Juls whispered to Val. “How about you? How is work and school?”

Val shrugged her shoulders and took a long scull of beer. “Nothing that interesting. Went to Canada for a media conference last week. It was boring but there was free wine. Almost failed my business exam… nothing that special.”

Juls could tell that Val wasn’t in a great headspace. “At least you didn’t fail.”

Val nodded unenthusiastically and took another scull.

Juls worried that Val was turning to alcohol to deal with her dissatisfaction with life lately. She took the half-emptied beer glass out of her hand and placed it further away on the table.

“Are you okay, Val? Like really okay?” Juls placed her hand on Val’s knee in a comforting way.

“Why do you care? I’m not your problem anymore.”

Juls face dropped and she pulled her hands into her lap.

“Sorry, that was harsh. I just… I’m still processing the whole being rejected by you.”

Juls squeezed her knee. “I wasn’t trying to reject you, I was just not good at explaining my thoughts. I was just overwhelmed with all these new strong feelings I had towards you and wanted to slow down and make healthier decisions… In the end, I still put my foot in it… I’m sorry.”

Val squeezed Juls’ hand in acknowledgement.

“I’m sorry that in my anger I accused you of being a fuckgirl. I know you’re not like that. I was just hurt that you wanted space from me. I misinterpreted what you said and let my anxiety get to me and convince me that I wasn’t good enough and that is why you wanted some distance.”

Juls could see the genuine vulnerability in Val’s face as her eyes began to water.

“We are just a couple of idiots, aren’t we?” Juls joked.

Val laughed. “Yeah, we are.”

The group’s vibe majorly lifted once the two girls had cleared things up. Everyone chatted and laughed about their most embarrassing dating moments.

Nayeli said, “I once pretended to have an allergic reaction to garlic to get out of a date. I even went to the bathroom and covered my neck in blush to make it look like I was breaking out into hives. Luckily he was an idiot and believed me.”

Sergio pointed to Juls, “Wait til you hear Juls’ one.”

Juls rolled her eyes. She spoke of her graduation camping trip from high school. There was a boy named Tim who had been crushing on her for years. She finally gave him a chance and agreed on going on a hike with him. They went down this trail and an hour later realised they were lost. Tim started freaking out, hyperventilating, and passed out. Juls had to sit there with this passed guy until people noticed they were missing. A few hours later he woke up and tried to make an excuse about him passing out from heat stroke. The park rangers finally found them at dusk and transported them back to camp. Tim was so worried Juls would tell on him so he took control of the narrative and told his friends that Juls was a tease and a prude. He said they had made it to second base and then Juls freaked out and ran off the trail causing them to get lost.

“I obviously never went out with him again… The positive was the other boys left me alone because they thought I was a tease.”

Everyone laughed but Val. “I’m sorry that happened to you. What a fucking douche,” Val said.

“It’s okay, Val. Everyone of us becomes a victim of toxic masculinity at some point.”

Val nudges Juls’ shoulder. “For the record, I don’t think you’re a tease.”

Juls laughs. “Good. I always aim to be an attentive lover.”

Sergio overhears this and mimics vomiting.

After a nice big meal and a few more drinks, everyone decides it's time to go home. Val and Juls are stuck at the hip as usual, talking like they are in their own little world. The group decides to carpool to save on Ubers.

“Want to ride with me, Juls? We can drop you off first.”

Juls nods. “Sounds good.” She grins, happy that her and Val seem to be vibing again.

Sergio and Renata gave each other a knowing smile. Sergio winks and walks towards his Uber.

Val and Juls jump into their silver sedan Uber. This time they leave the middle seat between them. They sit silently, watching the city go by.

Out of nowhere, Juls says, “I am glad we ran into each other. I really missed… this.”

Val smiled and tapped Juls’ knee. “Me too. I hated how our last conversation ended.”

They finally arrived at Juls’ apartment building.

Juls turned to Val and said, “Did you want to come in for a bit? We can talk and hang… But I totally understand if…”

“I would love to,” Val interrupted.

They took the lift up to the 4th floor. Juls unlocked her front door and held the door open for Val.

The apartment was small and cosy. The furniture and fixtures were a mixture of wood, browns and neutrals with pops of blue. It was immaculately clean and tidy. Not one object out of place.

“Make yourself at home. Did you want a drink? I have iced tea or water.”

“Water sounds perfect, thanks.” Val fell back onto the soft brown couch. It felt like her body was floating on a cloud.

Juls came over and handed Val a bottle of water. Their hands brushed against each other and they both felt a quick spark explode from the touch. They put on the movie, Bridesmaids and shared the bottle of water. They gradually moved closer to each other and found themselves facing each other with their knees touching. They began talking about their plans for the Thanksgiving holiday coming up in a few weeks.

“My family goes to our chalet in Alaska. It's nice and cosy. We ski, eat, drink and catch up, but it normally ends up in a fight between me and my sister, Eva. She is so nosy and controlling. She always finds something wrong with my life and tries to tell me what to do.”

“That sounds nice but the whole sister thing sucks. People in glass houses shouldn’t…”

“Throw stones,” Val finished off.

“I always wanted a sibling.”

Val listened as Juls briefly explained how dysfunctional her childhood was. Her dad was in the navy seals so they moved pretty much every 2 years. This made it hard for her to make and keep friends. Her mum worked in hospitality so she had to work late nights. She felt alone a lot of the time, and wished she had a sibling to play with and talk to. Someone who understood her. When her dad was home, he drank and was so emotionally abusive that Juls would block out the noise with music on her MP3 player. She would watch movies like Cheaper by the Dozen and imagine having lots of siblings and friends like that.

Juls didn’t open up to people about this time in her life. Certainly not to people who she had only known a short while. But Juls had instantly felt comfortable with Val and trusted her with her whole heart.

“I’m sorry that you were so alone. That must have been tough.”

“It’s okay. I like to see the silver linings in things, and know that that time allowed me to be independent and learn to love my own company.”

“Yes, that is so true. Your independence is really hot.” Val smirked.

Juls chuckled. “You’re really hot… sorry, that sounded better in my head.”

Val chuckled and tucked Juls’ hair behind her ear. “So you think I’m hot?”

“Don’t let it go to your head.” Juls caressed Val’s head.

It felt like the air got sucked out of the room. Their heads shifted forward towards each other, their eyes and lips drawn to the other like magnets.

Val closed her eyes and waited for Juls to make the jump. She didn’t want to push things past what Juls was comfortable with.

Although Juls was cautious to act on their sexual tension again, she couldn’t deny their emotional connection. She had been wanting to do this since Val walked away from that beach 2 months ago.

Juls lightly pressed her lips to the corner of Val’s mouth. She then placed another kiss on the centre of her lips. Val slowly joined in, following Juls’ lead and lightly returning the light pressure. It was nice to experience a kiss that wasn’t rushed or leading to sex, just a kiss showing each other the mutual care and affection for one another. The kiss morphed into a more sensual act as their lips picked up in suction and pressure. After a few minutes of kissing languidly, Val pulled away.

“That was nice. But I’m confused. I thought you needed some space.”

“I know. I’m sorry for that. But I’ve had my time away from you and I now know what I want.” Juls took Val’s hand into her lap.

“And what’s that?”

“I want you. I want to take you out, get to know everything about you. I want to date you properly and see what happens… If you want to try... I’m so sorry for being so unsure before.”

Val was grinning ear to ear. She pulled Juls into a tight hug, with her arms wrapped around Juls’ back.

Juls melted into the hug and ran her hands up and down Val’s spine.

“Yes,” Val whispered. “I would love to date you. I want all of those things too. Thank you for being brave enough to say it first.”

They pulled back and kissed once again. A brief powerful merging of lips expressing how much happiness and excitement they had at the prospects of their future together.

Chapter Text

Val left early that special night, not wanting to push things too far and end up in bed with Juliana again. Not that she would complain had that happened, she craved Juls like a freshly ground coffee in the morning. But she wanted them to start (again) on the right foot. To develop their emotional connection and get to know each other before they get intimate again. This was going to be hard, especially with how sexy Juls looks in almost everything.

Juls really appreciated how Val was on the same page and ready to take things slow and steady. This making decisions with her head didn’t eliminate the sexual tension between them, but Juls knew it would be worth it in the long run. She had never been in love before, but she knew that when they did fall in love the sex would be a million times better.

They went back to texting all day everyday, in between adulting. Every evening they talked on the phone about their days and their plans for the following. It was Wednesday evening when Val asked, “Are you busy this Saturday?”

“No. I am amazingly free. What did you have in mind?” Juls grinned, knowing where this was going.

“I wanted to take you on a date. A really nice one. What do you reckon?”

Juls lightly laughed. “I would love a really nice date. Am I going to find out where we are going?”

“No, it’s a surprise.”

Juls could hear the smile on Val's face. “What should I wear?”

“As little as possible.”

Juls chuckled. “Val, I don’t think the public needs to see that. Do I wear something comfortable or dressy?”

“You’re right. For my eyes only… comfortable and cute. It’s nothing too fancy.”

“Sounds great.” Juls was glad to hear that. She hated nothing more than being wined and dined in a stuffy fancy restaurant with ridiculous food and uppity vibes.

Val was planning on taking Juls to the Santa Monica food truck lot. Juls loves sharing food and would appreciate the romantic picnic spot.

“I’m excited.”

“Me too. I can’t wait to see you again.”

“Same here. It is so hard to concentrate at work and in classes because I can’t stop thinking about you… and your lips and your… I better stop.”

Juls grinned, happy that she had that effect on this amazing woman.

“You’re always on my mind too.”

“I wanted to ask you something. I know you only have a few runs of your play left. I was wondering if you would be okay with me coming to see it. I totally understand if you don’t want me to as this is your first professional show and we only just started dating…”

“Of course you can come, Val. If you want to. I don’t want you to think you have to come just because…”

“I want to come. I love that play and would love to see you do your thing… I’ll buy a ticket now for closing night on Friday.”

“Great. We can catch up after the show. Go and get ice cream?”

“Yes, to celebrate.”

The following day, Guille invited Val for lunch at the cafe around the corner from work. They sipped their iced teas and caught up on what was happening with them.

“How is the renovation going?”

“It’s going. The kitchen has been a nightmare because the pipes were so old and heavily glued. But it got done. Just cost me a few thousand dollars and 2 years of my life.”

“God you are such a drama queen. You act like you are the one doing all the labour.”

“Well I had to work hard to get the money to flip this house.”

“And then you will make double what you paid for it and reap the rewards.”

Guille laughed and smiled. “Yes, you’re right. Big picture… How about you? I know you were a little down for a couple months and I was worried I would have to drive you to rehab again. But this week you have really turned it around.”

“Yeah, I had a bit of a falling out with a friend and wasn’t dealing with it well, but just this past week we have made up. She’s really important to me so I am happy she is back in my life.”

“Who is this friend? Is she new?”

“Yes, her name is Juliana. I met her a few months back at a bar opening. We just really… clicked, you know.”

“Well I am glad you are back on good terms. When can I meet this special Juliana?”

Val smiled awkwardly. She wanted to share Juliana with her family but was worried that they would figure out their romantic connection and cause drama for their blossoming relationship. More specifically, Eva sticking her nose where it doesn’t belong. She would eventually tell her family once their relationship became more serious, but for now Val was happy to keep Juls to herself.

“Soon. I’m sure you’ll meet her at my next event.”

“Does she have plans for Thanksgiving? Maybe she can join us in Alaska. We have that spare room.”

“That would be nice. Maybe. I’ll talk to her about it. She may have plans with her family.” Val knew full well that if Juls did come she wouldn’t be sleeping in that spare room.

Juls had said her parents invited her home for Thanksgiving weekend. But based on what little Juls has said about her parents, she had a strong feeling she wouldn’t be going to Texas for the holiday. She would love Juls to come but didn’t want to overwhelm her so soon with her family. Eva would most certainly give her the third degree and make her uncomfortable. But Val knew Juls could stand up for herself.

“Is she single?”

“Guille, don’t even. You’re not her type.”

He put his hands up. “Okay, okay. It was just a joke.”

“She is extremely beautiful so I wouldn’t blame you… I just know she is focusing on her acting career and doesn’t have time for, in her words, ‘annoying boys.’ ”

“She’s an actress?”

Val spent the next 30 minutes bragging about how amazing Juls was and her excitement at seeing her play tomorrow night.

“Well, that’s exciting. Maybe she can hook you up with a hot young actor like Timothee Chalamet.”

Val rolled her eyes. “No thanks, I’d rather be single.”

Guille chuckled.

Their chicken and avocado salads arrived at their table. Guille watched as Val picked at her salad while messaging back and forth with someone. He had a feeling that Val was secretly seeing someone, and this pretty much confirmed it with how she was smiling and blushing. He would find out soon enough, Val had never been good at keeping secrets.

Juls added the finishing touches to her makeup, some peach blush and white shimmer in the corner of her eyes. Her hair was curled and half braided. The costume consisted of a very modest long-sleeved white top and blue full-length skirt. Juls was able to channel a lot of herself into Nina; the drive to be a successful actress, to seek love and company from those she cares about.

She had been feeling queasy all day, probably from the nerves of Val seeing her performance tonight. All she could stomach was a plain chicken salad roll and a Red Bull. Luckily her castmates were great at hyping everyone up for the show. They played Grease songs and danced around the dressing room.

Val took her seat in the third row on the left side. She was right on the end as there were only limited spots left. She had dressed in tight navy jeans and a purple blouse with black boots. Val thought it best to dress a little nicer for a theatre show.

The lights went down and the show started. The show was a blur for both of them. Juls had sunk so deep into the character and the story that she forgot there was an audience there. She refrained from trying to spot Val as she knew that would distract her and affect her performance. Val was in a state of shock from how authentic and vulnerable Juls’ Nina was. She got goosebumps on her arms during her monologue. When the show ended Val clapped as loud as she could, grinning at her… friend? Date? Future girlfriend?

Juls grinned from ear to ear as she did her final bows.

Val waited in the lobby for Juls to come out. She had a bouquet of sunflowers in her hands, a gift for the star of the night.

Juls finally walked out wearing black pants and an oversized grey jumper, with her hair tied back in a messy bun. Her makeup had been mostly wiped away apart from the waterproof mascara.

“Val, thank you for coming.” She pulled Val into a tight hug.

Val returned the embrace. “Of course. You were so amazing. Congratulations on finishing your run. These are for you.” She held the bouquet out to Juls.

Juls took the flowers, sniffed them and smiled. “That’s so sweet. Thank you.”

They walked hand in hand to the gelato store two blocks down from the theatre. Juls was telling Val a story about how the set had partially fallen down during her monologue the night before, so she had to improvise.

Val purchased them a rocky road sundae to share. Juls was getting distracted by the way Val licked the chocolate sauce off her spoon. She couldn’t stop staring at the way her tongue engaged with the spoon and licked her lips.

“What?” Val asked.

“God, your wicked mouth.”

Val laughed. “My mouth is perfectly pure, thank you very much. I think it is your mind that is wicked.”

Juls chuckled. “Fair… I am really regretting this ‘taking it slow’ thing.”

“We can ‘take it slow’ and still have fun. There are a few bases that we skipped.”

“That’s true.”

“By the way, you’re not the only one who’s hot and bothered. Your monologue did all sorts of things to me.”

Juls laughed and bit her lip.

After they finished their sundae they walked back to the theatre, and stood beside Val’s silver Audi.

“Thanks again for coming.”

“I wouldn’t have missed it.”

Juls leaned forward and brushed her nose against Val’s. Val returned the gesture and softly pressed her lips against Juls’. Val rested her hands on Juls’ hips whilst Juls wrapped her hands around Val’s neck. Their kiss slowly became more heated, with more pressure, slick tongues and teeth biting swollen lips. Val’s hands moved to massage Juls’ backside. She loved the feeling of Juls’ plump flesh in her hands and the groans she elicited.

“Backseat?” Val asked.

They tumbled into the backseat with Juls straddling Val. They continued making out and caressing each other. Val’s hand slipped up Juls’ thigh and onto the inseam of her jeans. Juls rocked forward, signalling what she wanted. Val then moved her thigh between Juls’ legs to put pressure on her sensitive area. As they continued to kiss, Juls rocked against Val’s thigh, moaned and played with the hair on the back of her neck. Val held onto Juls’ hips and sucked on her neck, helping her ride out her orgasm. Once Juls finished, she moved to the side and patted Val’s thigh.

“Give me a minute and then it’s your turn.”

Val shook her head. “Don’t worry. You’re tired. Next time?”

Juls nodded. “I’ll see you tomorrow night?”

“Yes, you will. Drive safe,” Val said as Juls got out of the car and began walking towards her car.

Both girls drove home with smiles on their faces. Maybe they really could develop their emotional and sexual connection at the same time?

Chapter Text

Val picked Juls up in her SUV wearing a short black dress with a mini pastel purple cardigan. Juls had practically skipped to the car and jumped in. It had been less than 24 hours since they had seen each other but there was an invisible magnetic pull between the girls that led to them needing to be together.

Val checked out Juls’ outfit, which consisted of jorts, a yellow button up and white converse.

“You look cute.”

“Thanks.” Juls smiled. “You look really nice.”

“Damn! I was trying to go for smoking hot but I’ll take it.”

“Val, you are a smoke show. Stop fishing for compliments.”

Val and Juls laughed at their fake argument.

“I can tell by the way you look at me. Your eyes get really dark and piercing like you want to take me home.”

“So basically every time I see you?... I can tell when you are attracted to me.”

“How?”

“When your tongue is in my mouth.”

Val threw her head back with laughter.

They arrived at the Malibu food truck lot. Juls squealed when she saw all the amazing foods on offer. Churros, hotdogs, loaded fries, pizza and her favourite, seafood paella.

“Where did you want to go first?”
They ended up getting Churros with dulce de leche first as an ‘entree.’ Val ended up with caramel on her cheek and Juls took her time licking it off. This turned into a short make out session full of cinnamon sugar, caramel and soft lips.

Val set up a large picnic rug and a couple pillows for their picnic before walking off to get them a large serving of seafood paella for their main course. Juls was ordered to sit, relax and enjoy the homemade pink lemonade Val had brought.

Juls sipped her drink and watched the people mulling about. She couldn’t help thinking how lucky she was to be living her dream at drama school and possibly falling in love with one of the most remarkable human beings she had ever met. Juls smiled thinking about all the fun, exciting and heated experiences they had shared and that she hoped to continue to have. Juls had never thought much of sex, but now she was thirsting for it with Val like water on a hot day. There was a deep sharp thought that told Juls that Val was too good for her. Too beautiful, too wealthy, too successful and too well-liked. But for now, Juls was just going to live in the presence and focus on what they do have in common.

She knew her parents would struggle to understand this relationship and she didn’t care. Her parents had never put her as a priority so why should she care about them. Sergio would be happy for her, if not a little jealous that Val is better at picking up girls. Lucho would be tough to convince since he can’t see either of the girls as gay, but sometimes love is love and gender is irrelevant.

Val returned with their paella and took a seat right next to Juls. They were facing each other with their knees just touching. Val put a pillow in the middle and rested the food on it. They ate and talked about anything and everything. Juls moaned around a mouthful of octopus.

“Juls, you know what that sound does to me.”

This just made Juls more pronounced with her moans of pleasure.

After they had finished the food they laid on their backs beside each other with their heads on pillows and holding hands.

“Thanks for this, Val. It was really nice. Great food, scenery and company. Best date ever.”

Val smiled. “I’m glad you liked it. It feels nice doing anything with you, but this has been a good spot.”

“We should make it a tradition.”

“Yeah, good idea. Maybe for an anniversary… or something like that.”

Juls grinned, hoping that they would get to the point where they would have yearly anniversaries. “I’d like that.”

Juls turned onto her stomach so she could look into Val’s eyes. “Miss Smokeshow.”

“Yes?” Val laughs and eyes glint.

“Will you be my girlfriend?”

Val’s eyes widen and she sits up.

“You don’t have to answer yet. You can think about it or…”

Val just about jumped into Juls’ lap. “Yes, yes. I’d love to be your girlfriend.” She pulled Juls into a tight hug and tucked her head into her neck.

Juls returned the hug and rubbed her hands up and down Val’s back. She smiled from her eyes and everywhere, so happy that this beautiful girl wanted to be in a relationship with her.

After a few minutes Val pulled back and noticed Juls had tears pooling in her eyes. “Babe, are you okay?”

“Yes, sorry. I am just so relieved and happy.”

Val wiped Juls’ tears from her eyes, grinning at the beautiful display of happiness. “Don’t apologise. I am glad you are happy. I am so happy too. I didn’t expect you to ask me on our first proper date. I thought it was going to take at least 3 dates to tie you down.”

Juls chuckled. “I think seeing you support me at my show last night and then choosing such a perfect date for us, it made me see how stupid I was for doubting things with you. Yes, you are the first girl I have ever liked romantically, but you are the first human to make me feel truly wanted and appreciated. That is more than enough.”
Juls watched Val’s eyes begin to water now.

Val leaned in and whispered “Can I kiss you now?”

Juls nodded. “Yes. You never need to ask that, Val.”

Val brought her forehead to Juls’ and hands to her neck. She placed her lips firmly on Juls’ as if she was trying to show Juls just how much she cared through the press of lips.

Juls pushed back and rubbed her forearms.

After a few seconds they pulled apart. It was one of their shortest kisses, but it meant so much. It was a kiss saying “I want you, I want this, and I will be there because I care about you a lot.”

Chapter Text

Now that Val and Juls had made it official, they could not hide their feelings. They could not go more than 3 days without seeing each other. No amount of messages, calls, or facetimes could replace the comfort they felt being in each other's physical presence.

By Wednesday of the first week, they caved and Val drove over to Jul’s just to chat while she did her laundry. Val was clumsy and not very efficient at hanging out clothes, but she was cute and helpful and Juls found her extremely hot. This very adult chore turned into a hot makeout session on Juls’ couch that had to be terminated early because Juls’ roommate scared the crap out of them when he dropped a pot on the floor. The loud bang caused both girls to jump apart and hide behind the couch.

Over the following weekend, they had a horror movie marathon, specifically Stephen King based films such as IT and The Shining. Valentina made her famous homemade nachos and they vegged out, relaxing and enjoying each other’s company. They held hands and rubbed each other’s legs in a loving and reassuring way. Juliana fell asleep with her head in Val’s lap where she was running her fingers through her scalp. Val continued lightly stroking her hair and closed her eyes. They awoke around midnight and Juls apologised and grabbed for her keys.

“It’s too late. Just stay over… I can sleep on the couch,” Val said. “I don’t expect anything to happen. Just sleep.”

“I know, Val. Thank you, but I really should get home. I have to get up early for that rehearsal.”

“We can set an alarm. You can shower here and borrow some of my clothes.”

Juls smiled. She finds it near impossible to resist Val’s cheeky grin and charming words. “I’d like to be better prepared for our first sleepover… It’s hard to explain.”

Val nodded. “Of course. I respect your boundaries.”

“I wish I could be more carefree and spontaneous like you but I… with my history. I’ll tell you one day.” Juls was finding it hard to look Val in the eyes and ran her hand through her hair.

“No, no. I like the way you are. You don’t need to explain anything. I appreciate you being honest with me rather than forcing yourself and being uncomfortable.”

Juls nodded. “Thank you. It sounds so stupid because we have slept together and I stayed overnight then but… it’s different. My brain just… ugh!”

Val shook her head. “No, don’t get yourself worked up. I understand. Want a coffee so you are alert for your drive home?”

Juls nodded. “Yes please.” She couldn’t help but feel extremely lucky that the beautiful girl she was dating was so empathetic and understanding and patient with her. Most of her exes would feign being accepting and then get frustrated later on when Juls wasn’t as open as they were.

Juls sculled her iced coffee as Val sat beside her, stroking her back. Juls wasn’t used to having a partner that was so physically and mentally present. Always physically reassuring her without prompt, just out of desire. It was overwhelming at first, but Juls was beginning to absolutely revel in it.

“Thank you, love.” Juls stood up and gave Val a firm kiss on her cheek.

Val smiled and made a light groan. “Is that all?”

Juls chuckled as she rinsed out her mug. “If I kissed you properly, we would end up in bed for the next few hours.”

“I’m sorry but that sounds perfect to me.”

Juls squeezed her hand and grabbed her bag. “I’ll see you soon okay. Are we still going to that movie Tuesday night?”

“Yes, I can’t wait.” Val walked her to the door.

“Have a nice family lunch tomorrow.”

“I will as long as Eva is in a good mood.”

Juls laughed and gave Val a tight hug. It took several moments for them to let go.

“Okay, I am going now.”

***

Val munched on the fresh crusty bread with butter as her siblings argued over where they should holiday in the summer. Guille was all for Australia and Eva wanted to go to Japan.

“We went to Japan 2 years ago. We have never been to Australia. Don’t you want to see the Great Barrier Reef? Turtles, Nemo fish…”

“Do I want to be eaten by a shark or bitten by a deadly spider or snake? No! Japan means relaxation, health spas, cherry blossoms, world-class sashimi. The whole package.”

Val tuned them out and daydreamed about Juls and how amazing it will be one day when she can join their family trips. Showing Juls the world and experiencing new things together. Kissing and making love in every city. Sipping espressos on their balcony in just robes. That is the dream.

“Val, what about you?” Guille asks.

“I don’t really care.”

“Who is this? Where is the Val that would wrestle us to the point of exhaustion to get her way?” says Guille.

Val's father came out of nowhere and stated, “She’s in love. Can’t you tell. She’s lighter and funnier. Her eyes are brighter and keep darting to her phone.”

Val tried to hide her anxiety. “No. That’s not... I'm not...”

“Yes, you’re right Dad. I haven’t seen her this bad since that Charles guy in Canada.”

Eva zeroed in on Val. “Come on. Who is it?”

Val shook her head. “It’s only new. I don’t want to jinx it.”

“Dad, we need to know who it is. What if it leaks to the press and this causes a shitstorm for our upcoming hotel opening?”

Leon nods his head. “Val, just give us his name. Our family is under scrutiny with all the hotel and cartel rumours. We need to be two steps ahead.”

“Come on, guys. Leave her alone. Val wouldn’t date someone with a bad reputation. She’ll tell us when she is ready.” Guille winks at Val.

Val smiles and mouths ‘thank you’.

"You're right, I'm sorry Val." Eva walks around the table, leans forward to give Val a hug and snatches her phone.

“Hey! Give that back.”

Eva reads the strew of texts from Juls with 2 red hearts. One of the messages being of a provocative nature with a peach emoji.

“Please tell me this Juls is short for Julian.”

Guille eyes widened.

“Eva, you had no right to take my phone. That is private.”

“Dad, she can’t be one of those disgusting lesbians. Val doesn’t look like that, she couldn't… You can’t let...”

Leon shushes Eva and looks at Val. “I love you sweetheart, no matter what. We’ll talk about this later. Eva, I think it is best if we go and chat in the other room.”

“Val, you need to stop this. If you know what is good for you and our family, you will break it off.” Eva stormed out.

Guille tugs Val into a warm hug. She is frozen in shock with tears forming in her eyes. Everything is overwhelming. She didn’t get to explain how Juls makes her feel and how it was the greatest feeling in the world. She didn’t stand up for herself. She just sat there whilst her family processed something she wasn’t ready to share.

“I love you, Val. If you are happy then so am I. I look forward to meeting this Juls.”

Val coughs, suddenly feeling sick. “I need a drink.”

Val and Guille have two rounds of mezcal shots and watch Step Brothers.

Juls tries to call Val as it had been several hours since they had spoken but Val ignores it. She doesn’t have the energy to explain what has happened.

Chapter Text

Val took the week off as personal leave and hauled up on her couch with her doona, stuffed sloth and ice cream. She made it through three seasons of Gossip Girl in little time. Her phone had been blowing up with calls and texts from Eva. Leon was on a work trip in Mexico so they hadn’t had a chance to talk about the revelation of Val’s new partner. This made Val nervous. Her dad had said that he loved her unconditionally, but he also cared about nothing more than his reputation and his businesses. If her dating Juls had ramifications for his work, he might interfere. Val knew that Eva and Leon had already probably sent a private investigator to find out information about this Juls and uncover any dirt on her.

Juls had been texting every day to check in on Val. Val had told her that she had a bad fight with her sister and needed a few days alone to decompress. Juls as always was very understanding and kept her distance. This only made Val fall for Juls even more. She had never been with anyone who had respected her boundaries one hundred percent and still checked in to make sure she was okay. Val was so tempted to call Juls to invite her over and dump all of these emotions on her, but on one hand she didn’t want to give Juls bad energy and worry, and wanted to come up with some sort of a plan of action for dealing with her sister.

Juls had sent a text 30 minutes ago:

--Hey Val, how are you feeling today? Let me know if you need anything. I am always here for you. Take care, Juls--

Val had replied the following:

--Hey Juls, I am feeling a little better. Thanks for offering but I am good. Thank you for being so patient with me. Did you want to come over tomorrow night? We can order Thai food and watch Netflix. I miss you xx--

Juls quickly agreed and offered to bring the Thai food over with her.

The following day Val had spent the day brainstorming how she was going to respond to her sister’s barrage of messages and threats of uninviting Val from the family trips. The only solution she had come up with was ignore her, block her phone number and get her Dad to pull her sister in line. However, Leon found it hard to influence Eva and had often turned to withholding money or threatening to write her out of the will. This wouldn’t work now that she was married to a successful doctor and had a high-paying job so money wasn’t something she needed anymore.

Val hadn’t showered for a few days so she had an everything shower. She thoroughly washed her hair and body, shaved almost everything, and did a face mask to hydrate her skin. She put on something other than pyjamas, which was light grey culottes with a mint green knitted jumper. She let her hair air dry and topped her face with some BB creme. She looked in the mirror and looked the most put together she had been in a week. Val also tidied and cleaned the kitchen and lounge room, put on the dishwasher and made the place look less like a frat house.

Then there was a gentle three knocks at the door. Val opened the door to find the most amazing thing. Juls standing there with a bunch of sunflowers in one hand and a bag full of Thai food in the other. She was wearing her usual denim jeans with a ripped ACDC shirt that exposed her upper chest.

“These are for you.” Val took the flowers and brought them to her nose.

“Thank you, Juls. You didn’t have to.”

“I know, but I wanted to.” Juls’ warm smile seemed to melt all of Val’s worries away.

Val put the flowers in a vase with water whilst Juls laid the Thai out on the dining table. Val had already set plates and cutlery.

Juls sideled up next to Val, not wanting to overstep. Val turned to face Juls and threw her arms around her neck and settled into her chest for a hug. Juls brought her hands around Val’s back and rubbed her muscles as they contracted.

“I missed you,” Juls whispered into Val’s hair.

“I missed you too. I’m sorry for being so MIA. I just…”

“You don’t need to tell me yet. I just want to spend this night being with you, even if that is in silence.”

Val pulled back for a moment and laid a quick soft kiss on Juls’ lips.

Juls grinned. “Thanks, can I kiss you?”

Val nodded.

Juls cradled Val’s jaw and leaned in. She pressed a long kiss against Val’s lips. It was a way of saying ‘I am here for the long haul, I am here for you always.’

“That was a nice kiss, thank you.”

“You never have to thank me for kissing you. I could do it forever.”

Val’s cheeks went red. “Let’s eat before dinner gets cold.”

They babbled about random things as they shared a chicken Massaman curry and Pad Thai.

Val moaned after a mouthful of the noodles. “This is the best food I have ever eaten.”

Juls’ forehead creased. “What have you been eating this week?”

“I’m not proud of it but mainly Ben & Jerry’s Salted Caramel Core and Doritos.”

“Val, no wonder you felt like crap for so long.”

“I’m sorry.”

“You don’t need to apologise to me. Everyone has those weeks. I just… don’t want you to make it a habit of cocooning up here alone.”

“I know. I won’t be making a habit of it. Plus, I missed you too much so next time I might be cocooning up at your place.”

“You are welcome anytime.”

They finished their meals and Juls, being the angel she is, rinsed off the dishes and loaded them into the dishwasher.

Val sat at the island bench sipping her mint tea. She couldn’t help but admire the muscles of Juls’ arms and shoulders as she went about the kitchen. Val wanted to kiss her way along Juls’ shoulder and up her neck.

“Val, you’re staring.”

“I know. I can’t help it because you’re just so beautiful.”

Juls blushed and walked over to Val. “Not as beautiful as you, Val.”

Val leaned in and kissed Juls. This time things turned a little heated. Their mouths opened slightly as they kissed fervently.

Juls pulled back after a few minutes. “As much as I would love to keep kissing you, I think we need to talk first.”

Val nodded. “You’re right.”

They sat on the couch facing each other. Juls rubbed her hand along Val’s knee.

“The reason I’ve been so withdrawn this week is… my sister Eva, she was being nosey and picked up my phone and saw the messages you sent me. One being a little… fruity and she started going off about me not being gay and that this would reflect bad on the family and… basically outing me to Guille and Dad as well…”

Juls face froze in shock.

“Guille and Dad were really good about it. Guille wants to meet you actually. But Eva… She has been harassing me with messages and calls. I have just been ignoring her and hoping my dad will sort her out but he is on a work trip… I am just so tired. I wanted a week to disconnect from everything. But it really just made me feel worse. I couldn’t get out of this dark thought spiral. I had nightmares about Eva going after you and I and I didn’t want to get you involved and possibly put you in the firing line… But all I really wanted was to be with you. It’s all been so much.”

Tears started falling down Val’s face and Juls pulled her into a hug. “That is a lot, Val. I am so sorry Eva is acting like that. You don’t deserve this.”

Juls rubbed her back and whispered, “It’s okay, it’s going to be okay,” over and over again.

After a while, Val stopped crying and just curled up in the warmth of Juls’ body.

“I am sorry that Eva saw that message. I shouldn’t have sent…”

“No, Juls. It’s not your fault. Don’t you dare apologise. Eva should have respected my privacy and not snatched my phone. For context, my dad could tell by how I was acting that I was falling for someone and Eva just had to know who it was because she cares so much about how it could affect the business…”

Juls internally screamed with excitement at the words ‘falling for someone.’ Juls was certainly falling very hard and fast for Val, and was happy to know that maybe Val was feeling similar.

“She saw the name Juls and put two and two together as I had talked about you before.”

“But still. I am sorry that you didn’t have the chance to come out. No one should be outed, especially like that.”

“Even if I did come out to her voluntarily she would have acted like that… I just wish she wasn’t my sister.”

“Don’t say that, she’s your sister. She will come around. If she loves you, she will.”

They spent the rest of the night chatting, laughing at memes and sporadically watching episodes of Two and a Half Men.

They fell asleep on the couch after talking until 1am. Val with her head in Juls’ lap.

It was now 8am, and there was a loud knock on the door.

Juls stirred awake. Val was still asleep so Juls carefully moved her head and placed a pillow under it.

Juls went and opened the door to an angry looking brunette with dark red lipstick and piercing green eyes.

“You must be Juls.”

“You must be Eva.”

Val woke up to the vision of the two women staring intently at each other.

“FML!”

Chapter Text

Juls stood firm in the doorway with one hand on the door in case she needed to slam it shut. Eva stood right in Juls’ space, with her arms crossed and brow tense.

“Eva, what are you doing here?” Val asked, coming up behind Juls and placing her hand on her back for support.

“I came to check that you were alive since you weren’t answering any of my calls or texts… I didn’t realise you would have… company.”

“Well, I do have company so please leave.”

Eva tried to nudge her way in but Juls blocked the way. “Tell your bulldog to stand down, Valentina. I am your sister. You can’t just cut me out of your life because you are having some bizarre lesbian quarter life crisis.”

“You’re not welcome here. Leave before I call security,” Juls stated.

“You do not tell me what to do. You are nothing. Soon Valentina will realise that and dump you like the trash you are. I am a Carvajal. I have real power. Enough power to sabotage anyone’s life, career, family.”

Juls face went red and tense like she might be holding back the urge to spear tackle Eva to the ground and rip her awful hair extensions out.

Val stepped in front of Juls, her nose almost touching Eva’s. Juls held onto her hand for moral support.

“Don’t you dare threaten Juls again or I will call the police and get you dragged out of here for harassment. She is so much more than you think she is. She is a talented actress. She is more loving and selfless than anyone I have ever met. This is no quarter life crisis, this is love.”

If things weren’t so tense, Juls would have taken Val into her arms and kissed the lights out of her.

Eva stamped her foot. “No Valentina! You don’t know love. You were taken advantage of by that druggie in Canada and now you have been sucked in by this lesbo… You are addicted to being wanted. You love attention, any attention. Now you are dating a chica, you are gonna get just that. Think about what your peers at uni will think. Imagine what grandma will do.”

“Is that a threat?” Val asked with watering eyes.

Eva shrugged her shoulders.

“I think that’s enough,” stated Juls as she gently pulled the crying Valentina back and started closing the door.

“Wait,” Val said. “One last thing… I never want to see your face again. Tell Dad I am not coming to Thanksgiving or Christmas or any other family holiday ever again. My family is here.”

Val slammed the door shut.

Juls immediately pulled Val into her arms, rubbing her back and hair to soothe her as she sobbed softly.

“Are you okay, my love?” Val choked.

“I am fine, Val… It’s you I am worried about.”

Val pulled back with watery eyes and red cheeks. Her blue eyes pierced through Juls’ soul.

“I meant it, you know. You are my family. You are the one that always checks in and knows what I need… I can’t imagine life without you. I can live without holiday trips to the cabin or Fiji.”

Juls eyes started to water.

“What’s wrong? Did I say the wrong thing?” Val took Juls hand and squeezed it.

“No, you said everything so… perfectly. I feel the same… I would do anything for you. I would brave Eva every day to be with you.”

Val leaned forward and met Juls with a passionate kiss. They pressed their lips firmly together like they were trying to hold on to this feeling forever.

After coming up for air they decided to cook bacon and maple syrup pancakes for breakfast. It was mostly Juls doing the cooking but Val was great at whisking and getting batter everywhere.

She smeared some on Jul’s nose. “Oops!” Val proceeded to lick the batter off.

Juls laughed and did the same, wiping batter on Val’s chin and sucking it off.

They scoffed the pile of pancakes, bacon and syrup off one massive plate. Val created the perfect bite for Juls with a large triangle of pancake, half a piece of bacon, doused in syrup.

“Good right?”

Juls moaned with delight. “Delicious… But not as tasty as you.”

Val blushed. “Juls!”

“What? It’s true.”

They spent the rest of the morning playing Mario Kart and watching funny dog videos on YouTube.

“I can’t wait to buy my own place so I can have a dog.”

“Yeah. What type of dog?”

“I kind of want a rescue greyhound. They are so loving like big teddy bears, even with all that they have gone through.”

“Awww. I can see that.”

“Do you want a dog one day?”

“Yeah, I have always wanted one. Dad never allowed them because he said they would destroy the house.”

Val and Juls had showers, separately much to Val’s disappointment, and changed into some of Val’s comfy tracksuits. Val in pink and Juls in purple.

They played Guess Who for a couple of rounds. Juls was surprised that Val won both games.

“Did you think I was just some dumb blonde?”

“No, I just didn’t think you were so competitive.”

They ended up cuddling on Val’s bed, which led to an intense make out session. Juls was on top with her leg between Val’s. She was marking Val’s neck by sucking and biting the soft vanilla-scented skin.

“Juls, you might want to stop that if you don’t want to go all the way… I am getting really worked up.

“Maybe I don’t want to stop.” Juls pulled back and grinned.

“Serious?”

“Yes, you aren’t the only one with needs and desires… I haven’t been able to stop thinking about our first time.”

“Me neither. But what about waiting?”

“I think we have waited long enough.” Juls sat back and threw her jumper off, leaving behind a black lacey bra.

Val sat up and did the same, throwing her jumper and bra across the room. “Thank god! I have major blue balls.”

Juls chuckled and jumped forward to pay attention to Val’s beautiful breasts.

Chapter Text

As much as Val loved Juls kissing her breasts, it was Juls’ turn to be completely worshipped. Mind, body and soul. Val pushed forward and flipped Juls onto her back.
“Your turn, my love.”
Val just about ripped off her bra and Juls laid back with hair splayed on the gold silk pillowcase. This made the hints of gold in Juls’ eyes stand out. She looked so angelic, warm and vulnerable.
“You are the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. I am so lucky,” Val said.
Juls blushed and smiled lightly.
“Val…”
“Don’t. There is no need to say anything back. I just needed you to know that.”
Val took her time slowly kissing and caressing every part of Juls’ body including her shins, calves and hip bones. Juls was writhing in pleasure and anticipation.
“Val, please. I need…”
Val crawled up to Juls’ face and gave her a sweet kiss on the mouth. “What do you need?”
“Your mouth.”
Val grinned hungrily. “Your wish is my command.”
Val wasted no more time. She helped spread Juls’ curvy legs and settled between them. The swell of Juls’ heat was strong. Val took one long swipe down Juls’ slit.
“Fuck, Val.”
“You taste so fucking good, babe.”
Val spent the next ten minutes circling Juls’ clit, sucking and licking the length of her heat. Changing the pressure and direction every so often to keep the momentum going until Juls reached the peak of orgasm.
“Fuck, Val!”
Val fell to the side and wiped her face on the top sheet.
Juls was laying back, eyes closed, enjoying the post-orgasm euphoria.
Val pulled the sheet up and over them.
“Give me a second to recover and then…”
“Babe, I’m good for now. Maybe later”
They went on to shower together. It did take longer as they took their time washing each other with Val’s peony body wash and making out.
They put on casual house clothes and watched TV.
“I should probably get going,” said Juls.
“Or you can stay another night?” Val winked.
Juls shook her head. “As much as I’d love to, I have adult chores to do.”
“True. I should probably do my washing.”
Juls packed her dirty clothes and headed for the door.
Val opened the door for her. “Have fun doing chores.”
“You too.”
“I can’t wait til one day when we live together and share the chores.”
Juls froze and went slightly pale.
“Oh shit. That was too much too soon wasn’t it. I’m sorry, I got carried away…” Val’s face went red with embarrassment.
“No Val. It’s fine. It’s sweet… I just am not used to hearing these things… But that sounds really nice. I want that too.”
Val sighed with relief. “Good. I was worried I just scared you away.”
Juls took Val’s face in her hands. “You could never scare me away. I feel so much for you. Things I can’t put into words. This connection is the realest thing I have ever felt and I wouldn’t throw that away. Definitely not because of my anxious attachment style.”
Val leaned forward and kissed Juls firmly on the mouth. “I feel so much for you too.”
Juls managed to pull herself away and head towards her car.
The following week both girls were busy with work and study. Juls had two auditions so she was busy preparing for those in between her other responsibilities. The lack of sleep and convenience ramen was starting to catch up with her. She was tired and stressed so her second audition didn’t go well. She ended up calling Val afterwards, crying because she felt so embarrassed when she forgot her lines midway through a scene.
“Babe, it’s just one audition. Your chance will come.”
“I know but the casting director is like super big in the industry and she’ll remember that audition I completely fucked up and never hire me.”
“Juls, the casting director sees hundreds of actors everyday. She’s not gonna remember this one audition and blacklist you forever. All the best actors have had bad days, bad auditions. Don’t stress.”
“I know you’re right and I am just being a drama queen. I just… feel overwhelmed. With work, school and auditions. I have no time to rest. I have no time to see you… I miss you.”
“I miss you too babe. Why don’t you come over now? I can massage your feet and make you food. I’m gonna make chicken caesar salad.”
Juls sighed. “I wish. That sounds amazing but I have to work on my assignment due in a couple days.”
“Maybe you have too many things going on. Can auditions take a backseat? I don’t want you to burn yourself out.”
“Yeah probably. But there are so many great scripts coming my way. I don’t want to miss out on my big break.”
“That’s true… It’s up to you. You know what you can handle.”
“Thanks for your support, babe. It means the world.”
“Always. Goodnight. I love… our chats. Take care.”
Juls giggled at the nearmiss. “You too, Val. Sweet dreams.”
Val was proud of Juls following her dreams but she was worried she was stretching herself too thin and setting herself up for a major breakdown.

Chapter Text

Val was at work and received a call from her brother, Guille.

“Val, please come to the cabin for Thanksgiving. Eva said she will be on her best behaviour,” pleaded Guille.

“Guille, we all know Eva’s best behaviour is our level of worst behaviour. No… I am not opening myself up to another confrontation with her and Juls. We don’t deserve that negativity. I want to spend Thanksgiving relaxing, curled up on the couch with Juls, and eating pie.”

“I understand… It’s just not going to be the same without you. Dad will be devastated.”

“Well that’s too bad. He let Eva be a monster all her life. So he can lay in the bed he made.”

Guille made a groan on the other end of the phone. “So when will I get the chance to meet this special Juliana? I want to meet the person who has made you so strong and happy.”

Val laughed. “Soon. Juls is so busy with school, work and auditions. I will ask when she is free and we can go for dinner. I really want you two to meet. Then you’ll see how amazing Juls is and why I lo… why I am falling for her.”

“I don’t need to meet her to see that. I can tell by the way you are always checking your phone and smiling, and how you seem more carefree and spontaneous. You go out more. I saw on Instagram that you guys went to an escape room with her friends… I know she is very good for you.”

Val gave a warm smile and her eyes went watery. “I am glad you see that because.. I can’t begin to put into words how much she means to me.”

“I need to get back to work. My boss keeps looking over at me… I look forward to dinner. I might bring along my new lady friend.”

“Oooh. I can’t wait to hear all about your new FRIEND! Love you.”

Val turned her phone off and went back to researching the history of a specific golf tournament. Riveting stuff. Exactly why she got into journalism in the first place (note the sarcasm).

A few hours later Juls finally texted Val back.

---Sorry babe, my rehearsal went over because this one dufus jock couldn’t get through his monologue and scene. I wish I could come over but I have this script analysis assignment I need to finish. Do you mind coming to mine? You can watch TV while I study and then I can study YOU *winky face emoji*---

Val wished they could have the whole evening to catch up and “study” but she had to put her wants aside for Juls’ career. Just because Val was okay with just having a job rather than a career, doesn’t mean it should be the same for Juls. Val was proud of how talented, humble, driven and hopeful Juls was. It inspired her to be better. She knows that part of Juls’ drive was the need to not take after her parents and just settle and have a family because that is what is expected. Juls wanted to pave her own successful path and reap the benefits later on.

---That’s all good babe. Yes, I can come over. Let me go home and shower and I will be right over. I can’t wait for our STUDY!---

Juls laughed at the message. It had been 4 days since they had seen one another and both girls were craving their intimate time. Juls had never craved sex like she does with Val. Too many days apart and she is sent into withdrawals. She gets grumpy, sluggish, brain-fog and bored.

Val wasn’t much better. She found herself daydreaming and night-dreaming about Juls and found it hard to concentrate at uni and work.

Val had an ‘everything’ shower in preparation for their sexy time. She packed her sexiest pyjamas which is a silk and lacey pink nightie.

Juls heared a knock at the door. “It’s unlocked, babe.”

Val walked in wearing her comfy purple tracksuit. She took a moment to take in the sight before her. Juls bra-less in a white singlet and shorts, hair tied back in a messy bun, reading glasses, books and laptop.

“Val, you’re staring again,” Juls pretend-whined.

“It’s not my fault that I have the most cute, hot and sexy girlfriend in the world.”

Juls pushed her laptop and books aside, stood up and jogged over to Val. She brought her hands to Val’s jaw. “You’re biased though.”

Val leaned forward and caught Juls’ lips. It quickly turned from slow, welcoming kisses into a heated, sensual makeout session. Val hands slowly trailed up Juls’ stomach under her singlet and ghosted over her underboob.

Juls leaned back. “Val, as much as I would love to continue this, you know we would end up in bed all night and I won’t get any of my assignment done. It’s due midday tomorrow and I have 2000 words to go.” Juls’ voice was breathy and shaky as she tried to maintain composure even though Val’s mouth was making her wet.

Val took to kissing up and down Juls’ neck and collar bone. “One round and then I will help you study.”

Juls laughed. “Do you know anything about Macbeth?”

“I know McNuggets.”

Juls and Val burst into laughter and the sexual tension was gone.

Val massaged Juls’ tense feet as she typed away on her computer. She took turns between watching House of the Dragon and watching her love type with her concentration and focus face. Juls’ brow would furrow and her lips would pucker. Val thought it was the cutest thing in the world.

Two hours later… “Done. 4500 words. Booyah!”

Val squealed with excitement and softly tackled Juls into the couch.

“You are free to bed me now.”

Val bit her lip. “One minute… I want to ask you something.”

“Sure. What’s up?” Juls looked curious and a little nervous.

“Guille really wants to meet you. I want you guys to meet. I think you’ll get along really well. I was thinking, if you wanted to, we could have dinner with him and his new lady friend. What do you think?”

Juls gave a nervous smile. “I want to, Val. But I am so busy and stressed and I am not good at meeting families, especially right now. I don’t want to make a bad first impression.”

“You could never make a bad first impression. And what do you mean you are not good at meeting families?”

Juls’ face scrunched up. “With my first boyfriend, his Mum found us, you know, doing it. She screamed at us and called me a slut and told me to never come near her boy again.”

Val laughed. “Sorry for laughing, but that was the mum’s problem.”

“Then the second boyfriend, I went to meet his family on his birthday and the brother recognised me. He had seen me at a university frat party dry humping some college dude. I was in my rebellious phase… the guy broke up with me the next day saying I wasn’t who he thought I was.”

“What a douche! I doubt Guille has seen you anywhere in a compromising position.”

“I know, I just feel like I am cursed. I have a toxic family that I avoid and trust issues, so all I want is for the family of my partner to accept me. If they reject me, I don’t know what I’ll do.”

“I understand, babe. I know you worry and get anxious about these things, but I know Guille, and from what he has heard and seen from me, he already likes and accepts you. You just have to trust me and him. If things go pear shaped or you get uncomfortable, we can leave. Let’s have a safeword, like… Macbeth. If you say that word, we will make up an excuse and leave. How does that sound?” Val rubbed her hand up and down Juls’ shoulder and upper arm.

“Let me think about it. Process it. Then we can set a date.”

“Okay babe. I can give you time. But do know that he is constantly harassing me and will start getting paranoid if I keep putting him off.”

“Okay. I will process as quick as possible.”

Val giggled. “Thanks love. Now you can bed me. Bed me as many times as possible.”

Juls grinned cheekily. “Your wish is my command. I hope you are nourished because I can go for hours.”

Juls kissed Val briefly and picked her up and carried her to the bedroom. She spent the next hour worshipping Val’s body. Kissing every inch, making Val moan with delight and want. Val came three times in a row. Once from Juls’ fingers, once from her mouth and once from scissoring. The third orgasm rocked Val’s body so hard that she fell back and passed out straight after.

Juls cuddled up to Val’s side and fell asleep while combing her fingers through her long silky hair. Life couldn’t get better than this, she thought.

Chapter Text

Juls had finally decided on wearing a black off the shoulder dress after changing her outfit five times.

“Is it too much for a brunch?”

“No, babe. We are going to Frasier’s so it’s the perfect amount. Plus, you look so hot in that black dress. Guille is going to be blown away.”

“Val, I’m not trying to ‘blow’ your brother away. I am trying to make him see that I am a good partner to you.”

“Exactly, which includes looking beautiful as always.”

Juls couldn’t help but grin slightly. She loved how Val always had something perfectly cheeky and loving to say at the most stressful of times.

Valentina had put on her favourite yellow dress with lace midlength sleeves. It reminded her of sunshine and her mother.

Juls thought it perfect since Val reminded her of sunshine personified.

On the ride to the restaurant Juls’ leg bounced with anxiety.

To try and settle her nerves, Val placed her hand on Juls’ thigh and massaged it.

The reminder that Val was there for her, through every moment, settled Juls’ mind a little.

“Mi amor, you’ll do great.”

Juls took Val’s hand and kissed it. “I would do anything for you.”

Val smiled at Juls. “I would do anything for you too… so if you want to turn back now, I can say that you got food poisoning or something…”

“No, Val. I can do this. I am as ready as I am ever going to be. I want to do this for you and for us.”

Val bit her lip. “I can’t wait to jump your bones later.”

They make it to their table on the balcony, overlooking the valley.

“Of course, Guille is late as always.”

They sit facing the view, hand in hand. They both order red wine.

A few minutes later Guille strolls in alone. “Sorry I’m late. My girlfriend had a family emergency and no that isn’t an excuse. Her brother was in a car accident.”

“Oh gee. Sorry to hear that. Guille.” Val gave Guille a hug.

Juls stood up as well. “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you,” she says, holding her hand out.

“You too, Juliana.” Guille ignores Juls’ hand and pulls her into a hug.

They both pull back and Juliana sighs a sign of relief at how comfortable she feels in Guille’s presence. Almost like he is an old family friend or best friend’s brother.

“Val was right, you are gorgeous, in a totally platonic way.”

Juls and Val giggle.

“Isn’t she just? She’s beauty and brains, she’s going to be such a successful actress. I can feel it.”

“Val,” Juls half-whined. “That’s enough talking about me.”

They ordered their brunch and began to chat normally. Juls loved hearing about Val and Guille’s mischief from when they were kids.

“So I asked the guy to show me how to do a good golf swing, but I pretended I was really bad. I didn’t realise at the time that he was a famous golfer. While I was distracting him Val snuck behind us and stole the golf cart…”

“Then I shouted ‘RUN’ and Guille jumped onto the cart and we sped off. The guy started yelling at us to come back but we kept going. We went for a little joy ride and then went back to the club house where we saw Dad angrily chatting with the guy…”

“We had to apologise to him and were grounded for a month, but it was so worth it. The golf guy ended up coming over for dinner and was actually really cool. He gave us a proper golf lesson and told us that what we did was actually funny.”

Juls chuckled. What a fun childhood they had together. There was a slight pang of sadness in her that she didn’t have any fun sibling-shared memories, but she was hoping that things would work out with Val long term and Guille would become the brother Juls never had.

But that was getting ahead of herself. Even though things felt so right and Juls couldn’t imagine growing old with anyone else, anything could happen in the blink of an eye. Juls had known her parents to spend weeks completely sappy and in love and then months spewing toxic hatred at each other. She wasn’t yet convinced that a happy toxic-free relationship existed and lasted long-term.

“So Juls, other than being an actress and Val’s complete obsession, what do you do? Any hobbies?”

Val squeezed Juls’ thigh with encouragement.

“I don’t do this as much as I used to, being busy with work, school and auditions, but I used to volunteer at the youth centre. I would assist and teach a weekly art class and sometimes take the teens to art galleries and museums on weekends. Get them out of their phones for a little while. It was really rewarding. I always said that if I couldn’t make it as an actress I would become an art teacher. I do a lot of charcoal and pencil sketching in my free time.”

Guille grinned. “That’s so cool, Juls. One day you’ll have to give me an art lesson.”

“Of course. Anytime.”

Val grinned with immense pride. She was so happy to see her two favourite people get along so well.

Juls loved hearing Guille call her Juls rather than Juliana. It made her feel accepted and welcomed into the family.

“So I’m not sure if you heard, but Dad cancelled Thanksgiving at the cabin. He said if not all the family feels welcome, then it's not happening.”

“Oh, he didn’t need to do that. Juls and I were happy to just do our own thing. I didn’t want the family holiday to be ruined because of us.”

“It’s not because of you guys. It’s Eva. She is the one driving a wedge between us. If I was Dad I would just uninvite her. She is the one with the problem.”

“Thanks, Guille. But we know that wouldn’t end well,” said Val.

“I was just going to do Thanksgiving with Lucy’s family.” (Lucy being his new girlfriend).

“Good idea.”

“But then I thought, we could cook Thanksgiving at my place and invite Lucy’s family and you guys can come too. So at least some of the family would be together.”

“But you can’t cook,” stated Val.

“Shut up. I can… With Lucy’s help.”

“We’d love to come, thank you Guille,” responded Juls.

“What about Dad?”

“Dad can be with Eva,” stated Guille.

Juls offered to make dessert: her signature pumpkin spice cake. She won’t mention that it secretly contains a can of pumpkin soup.

After they ate, Guille had to quickly shoot off to be there for Lucy. Her brother was in surgery with a badly broken leg. There was a possibility it would need to be amputated.

He got up and gave Juls a tight hug. “It was so nice to meet you Juls. I can’t wait to get to know you more. I can definitely see why Val likes you so much.”

Juls smiled from ear to ear all the way home.

That night Val made sweet love to Juls, whispering things like, “You are so beautiful” and “I could do this forever.”

They fell asleep at midnight, cuddled together naked in the sheets. Val’s head on Juls’ chest.

Juls placed a kiss on Val’s head and looked down at her peaceful sleeping face. “Is this what love feels like?” she softly whispered to herself.

Chapter Text

Sergio took a long sip of his macchiato. Juls shovelled the buttery and creamy scrambled eggs into her mouth. They had met up at their favourite local bakery and cafe for brunch.

“Nice of you to join me. Ever since that night at the club, you have been MIA.” Sergio winked to signal that he was being sarcastic.

“I know, I’m sorry I have been so absent. With work, uni, and auditioning, I have been stretched thin. I promise to carve out more time for you and Lucho.”

“Are you sure there isn’t another reason? A tall blonde blue-eyed reason.”

Juls chuckled. “Okay, yeah. Val and I have been a bit inseparable.”

“No need to feel bad. I am just happy to see you falling for someone. I have never seen you like this before.”

“I know right. I just didn’t expect this. Especially with someone as beautiful, kind and successful… I thought it was just going to be a one night stand. And then maybe friends with benefits. But it kinda feels like this is it. This is my happily ever after.” Tears started to pool in the corner of Juls’ eyes. She tried to wipe them away but Sergio stopped her.

Grinning from ear to ear, he said, “I am beyond happy for you, Juls. You deserve a beautiful life and family.”

Juls pulled Sergio into a hug. “You will always be my chosen family.”

“Of course, I am definitely going to be your Man of Honour and godfather to your children. Can’t wait.”

Juls nodded and laughed with delight. “Where is Lucho, anyway? I thought he was coming.”

“He got called into work. He has also been MIA.”

“Why?”

“He met this girl at Church with his Nonna and he is obsessed. Good thing she is too. They are ‘courting’ apparently.”

“Well that’s promising.”

“Yeah, except that she is contemplating moving to Australia to do missionary work in the outback.”

“Oh wow… So she is really religious, hey?”

“Yes, she is saving herself for marriage. But Lucho said she is super hot and cooler than she sounds.”

“I can’t wait to meet her,” stated Juls with a twinge of worry in her voice.

They discuss their plans for the weekend. Sergio and Renata were going to see a local theatre production of Merrily We Roll Along. They were currently only hanging out as friends but Juls had an inkling that this friendship and bond was slowly developing into something more.

Juls was nervous about finally meeting Val’s Dad that night. Val’s second cousin’s Christening was on today and Juls was invited to the barbecue happening afterwards. Luckily Eva was on a work trip in South America so she wouldn’t be in attendance to stir up any drama. Val reassured her that the rest of her family were accepting of their relationship and were excited to meet her. Juls knew deep down that everything would run smoothly tonight, she just was anxious about making a good first impression on Leon. She felt so strongly about Val, she had a flashing thought that one day she might or hope to be asking him for Val’s hand.

A message from Val pinged.

HEY BABE, THE CHRISTENING HAS BEEN PUSHED BACK A LITTLE BIT BECAUSE THE GODMOTHER’S FLIGHT GOT DELAYED. I WILL MESSAGE YOU WHEN IT FINISHES. MISS YOU. CYA TONIGHT XX

Sergio rolled his eyes as Juls smiled at her phone. Any message from Val, whether it be a funny meme, an emoji or a love letter, made her heart soar.

“One second, Sergio. Just gotta message her back.”

HEY LOVE, OKIE DOKIE. HAVE FUN. MISS U 2. LOOK FORWARD 2 IT XO
“Juls, I don’t know why you get so worried. You are any father’s wet dream for a daughter in-law… Okay maybe not the best choice of words, but you know what I mean. You are pretty, selfless, talented and utterly committed to Val.”

Juls shook her head. “But I’m entering the acting industry. One of the most toxic and unstable career paths. What if he doesn’t agree? He probably wants Val to have a stable and comfortable life.”

Sergio chortled. “Juls, Val’s loaded and works very hard so I think between the two of you it’ll be fine.”

“I know Val has money, but I want it to be even. I don’t want her paying for everything.”

Sergio spent the next ten minutes talking Juls out of a nervous spiral.

“Fine, I’ll go and just be myself.”

Sergio nodded. “Good. Have fun. Maybe don’t suck face the whole night. Might scar the kids.”

Juls giggled, hugged Sergio and walked home.

She had an everything shower, put on her comfy baggy house clothes and watched episodes of Succession. She munched on pretzels and M&Ms, her favourite snack. Her aim was to try to relax before going to the barbecue later.

Val sat through the boring Christening ceremony in the most over-the-top Catholic Church she had ever seen. The walls and roof were painted with different patterns of colours and hints of gold. She was wearing a strapless baby-blue jumpset that clung to her waist and hips and flared at the bottom. Her hair was braided to the side like a fishtail. Guille and her girlfriend, Lucy, were sitting beside her whispering sweet nothings. Val wanted to puke, but then remembered how she acted and felt around Juls and realised she had no leg to stand on.

After the ceremony, the family took photos in the rose garden out the front of the Church. Val got a lovely photo holding the blonde babygirl, her second cousin named Penelope. Penny for short. Penny was grinning and reaching for bubbles while Val laughed and smiled. Val forwarded this photo to Juls.

Juls face lit up at the photo of her beautiful girlfriend holding a bubbly Penny. Seeing Val like that made Juls get butterflies. Juls always felt that Val’s personality would make her an amazing mum, but this photo made Juls want to see that come to fruition with her. Juls couldn’t imagine a better life than raising a family together. Whether that be human children or fur babies.

Juls came to a realisation. She loved her. She was absolutely and completely in love with Val in every possible way. She wanted everything with her. The good, the bad, the quiet and loud moments. And she wanted to scream that to the world. But first, she had to tell the most important person.

Juls messaged Val back.

I LOVE THIS PHOTO. MY NEW SCREENSAVER. SEE YOU SOON XO

YAY. CAN’T WAIT TO SEE YOU XX

Juls decided on wearing a brown flowy wrap dress that ties at the waist and meets the top of her knees. She paired that with her burgundy Doc Martens. Her hair was down and curled slightly. She didn’t wear a dress super often but she wanted to wear something a bit more fancy that still felt like her.

She arrived at Val’s cousin's house or more like a gothic mansion. She had brought a wrapped gift, a strawberry scented teddy bear, as a gift for Penny. Juls knocked with the antique metal knocker.

Guille answered the door with the girl of honour in his arms.

“Juls! Welcome. So glad you could come. This is Penny.”

“Thanks, Guille.” Juls turned to the little girl in his arms. “Hi Penny, I am Juls. I am so happy to finally see you. I brought you a gift.”

Penny smiled and made grabby hands for the present. Guille helped Penny rip open the present and handed the teddy bear to her. She hugged it tight.

“I think you’ve done good,” states Guille. “Val is in the kitchen down the hall, she is making mojitos.”

Juls walked down the hall, admiring all the pretty paintings, ornaments and photos along the way. She made it to the kitchen and found her girlfriend chopping mint and chatting excitedly with her cousins, Maya (Penny’s mum) and Genevieve.

She looked up and locked eyes with Juls. Val checked out Juls’ outfit and grinned.

“Juls,” she called. Val just about jogged towards Juls and threw her arms around her. Juls ran her hands up and down Val’s lower back. They pulled back after a few comforting moments.

“Hey, you look nice.”

“So do you. Is this new?” Val ran her hands down the flowy brown material.

“Not really. First time wearing it though.”

Val grinned and whispered in her ear. “I can’t wait to take it off you later.”

Juls looked shocked and nudged Val a little bit. “Not here… Where is your dad?”

“He’s taking a work call unfortunately, but he’ll be back in a little while.”

Val took Juls’ hand and led her into the kitchen. She introduced Juls to her cousins as her “amazing girlfriend.” Both Maya and Gen were super warm, both giving her a hug and welcoming her into their “crazy” family.

They both took a glass of mojito and Val took Juls on a tour of the property. They walked hand in hand down to the little lake and patio. There were ducks, geese and carp.

“This is so nice,” said Juls as she stared out at the forest on the other side of the lake.

“Yeah. It’s perfect for a family.” Val was admiring Juls’ face.

Val leaned in and lightly kissed Juls on the side of her mouth.

Juls turned towards her, smiling. She leaned towards Val and pressed a firm sensual kiss against her lips.

Val grinned. “That was nice. What was it for?”

“I love you,” said Juls. “You don’t need to say anything, I just wanted you to know that.”

Val eyes and mouth widened. “I… wasn’t expecting that.”

Juls was slightly disappointed that Val didn’t say it back, but she was mostly glad to get that off her chest.

A bell rang in the distance. “Food must be ready. Let’s go back to the house.”

They walked back to the outdoor dining area, beside the pool. Leon was seated at the head of the table, drinking a glass of red wine and socialising with his brother, Marcus, and his wife, Leonie. There were two empty seats to Leon’s left, so Val and Juls headed for those. Val squeezed Juls’ hand to reassure her that everything was going to be fine.

“Sorry to interrupt. Dad, I would like you to meet my girlfriend, Juls,” said Val.

Juls held her hand out to Leon and said, “Nice to meet you, Mr Carvajal.”

He stood up with a warm smile on his face and shook Juls’ hand. “Please call me Leon. Juliana, I am so happy to finally meet you. I have heard so much about you and how happy you make my little girl.”

“I should thank you for creating such a wonderful human being.”

Leon chuckled and hugged Val. “She is amazing, but I am pretty sure most of that came from her mother.”

They chatted and ate their steak with salad. Leon was very interested in learning about Juls’ childhood in Texas and her acting classes. Val smiled happily letting the two get to know each other. She knew they would get along, but did not know they would begin talking like good friends so soon.

“You are definitely a lot nicer to talk to than Val’s ex-boyfriends,” said Leon.

“Dad!”

Val excused herself to go to the bathroom and bumped into Guille.

“Hey, how is it going with Juls and Dad?”

Val told him that they were getting along like a house on fire and that she could hardly get a word in.

“That’s so good. Happy for you sis.”

Guille then noticed that Val’s face was flushed and her hands were shaking a little. She seemed to need the support of the wall to stay upright.

“Are you okay, Sis? You don’t look so good.”

Guille knew the signs when Val was having a panic attack so he quickly got her to the bathroom and splashed some water on her face.

“Just focus on your breathing, okay… Want me to get Juls?”

“No! Please. I don’t want her to stress about me right now. I am fine, just overheated and overwhelmed.”

“What happened?”

“Juls told me she loves me.” Val ran her fingers through her hair.

“Congratulations! That’s so great.”

“It is, but it is a lot, like too soon… I don’t know what to do. She said I didn’t have to say it back but I also saw hurt in her eyes when I didn’t return those three words.”

“You don’t feel the same?”

“I am definitely falling for Juls, but I don’t think I am quite there just yet. I think I need more time and stability before I can truly fall in love.”

“Well you need to talk to her about this. She is meeting Dad as we speak. Things are getting real serious.”

Val nodded. She knew she needed to clear this up with Juls once they were alone. She couldn’t continue pretending everything was fine when she was having these feelings.