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Fuck it, I thought to myself, swiping right on a guy with a charming smile and an intriguing bio. What did I have to lose?
As I began swiping through potential dates on Tinder, I couldn't help but think about my relationship with Cassie. Our bond hadn't always been this strong. When I first found out that my father had a child with another woman, I was furious and hurt. It took time for me to accept the idea of having a half-sister, but eventually, I realized that Cassie was just as much a victim in this situation as I was. I was only two years older than she was and I found out that my dad named us similarly so that he could better remember our names. He was my dad, but he was also, apparently, a prick. He caused the break-up of our family and I knew it really hurt my mom. She pulled away from life in general. She was hurting and I was hurting and there was just nothing we could do about it. And that's when I just kept more to myself. It was better that way.
Over the years, Cassie and I grew close, bonding over our shared experiences and connection to our father. I can't even begin to express my disappointment about my dad as a husband, but I couldn't deny he was a great father. He spent time with me. Not just time, but quality time. I really felt his love for me growing up, and I know he was the same with Cassie. She was a wonderful person; always there to support me when I needed her most. So now, when we were both needing a roommate, it just made sense to share an apartment. She ended up being not only my step-sister created by an affair, but one of my best friends. And here she was, encouraging me to go on a date to distract myself from my job hunt.
I swiped right on a guy who seemed interesting enough. His name was Ethan, and his profile mentioned a love for hiking and photography – hobbies I enjoyed as well… well, sort of. At least we'd have something to talk about, I thought.
"Calla! Who's the lucky guy?" Cassie called from the other room, somehow sensing that I'd made a decision.
"His name's Ethan," I replied, feeling a mix of anticipation and nerves building up inside me. "We're going on a date tomorrow night."
"Ooh, exciting!" she cheered, bounding into my room with excitement. "You have to tell me everything afterward, okay?"
"Okay," I agreed with a small laugh. "But don't expect any juicy details. I'm only doing this for a distraction, remember?"
"Sure, sure," Cassie said with a knowing smile, clearly not believing me.
"Hey," I said, looking at her sincerely. "Thank you, Cassie."
"Of course, Calla." She wrapped me in a hug. "That's what sisters are for, right?"
"Right," I agreed, feeling grateful for the bond we'd formed despite our tumultuous beginnings.
I could already feel my thoughts shifting away from my job search and towards my upcoming date with Ethan. Cassie was right; this distraction might be exactly what I needed to regain my focus and motivation. Tomorrow night couldn't come soon enough.
Chapter 3
Dominic
The bro-chat started lighting up.
Logan
Guys – I'm spent. I need to go out tonight to shake my well-toned booty. Anyone in?
Seth
I could use some time with your well-toned booty. In a purely platonic way.
Austin
I'm in. Serena's out with the girls tonight. And we all know who has the best booty.
Hugo
Lemme check in with Simone. Yes, we all know who has the best booty. ME.
Logan
In Simone's dreams but that's about all. I'll book at the Drava. We haven't been there for a long time. Dom, you in?
I dropped my head. My desk was filled with spreadsheets that needed to be reviewed.
Hugo
I'm in. Simone's mom is visiting so I have the blessing to go out.
Fuck.
