“Is it that obvious?” Soph rubs her tired eyes. “My producer and I wanted to have tonight off, so we stayed up all night writing and trying new things. But I can’t complain. I love it all.”
Tove brings me a glass of water and a steaming cup of coffee, leaving another smaller cup of cream with it. I love that she remembers how I want my morning beverage.
“How’s the album coming along?”
My friend lets out a content sigh. “It's all I’ve ever wanted, if I'm being honest. Being able to work on my music with all these big names is truly a dream come true. It's hard to believe that this is my life.”
“Chica, you deserve it all and more. It’s not surprising how far you've come since bartending between your sets at Warm’n’Cool.”
“You’re only saying that because you're my best friend.”
I trace the condensation on my glass. “You know I don't talk shit.”
“True. So, what happened with the meeting you were supposed to have?”
“Who knows? My tío Pepe said it's canceled without giving me any reason.”
“Well, I'm glad we could meet before we go out tonight.”
“Why?” I ask with a frown.
Soph suddenly looks uncomfortable, fidgeting in her seat. “Um, I've been a bit worried about how you're doing.”
“Don’t—”
“Let me finish, H,” my best friend mutters. “It's just that you have such a busy schedule with your day job alone. In addition, your family business has been taking up more of your time lately. Then there's the fact you haven't even mentioned dating in months. That’s very unlike you.”
I let out a frustrated huff, not wanting to admit she’s right. “My days are packed without any space for extracurricular activities.”
“I get that, but I still worry.”
“And all the material for my family business is in Spanish, too, so I've been learning a lot of new corporate jargon lately. I thought I was fluent, but it’s challenging when there’s specific terminology for a certain topic that I’ve never read about. Lots of googling, for sure.”
“At least that's positive, right? Learning more of your second language is never a waste.”
“True, but I haven't even been to Pilates in weeks, either. So finding time for a time-sucking activity such as modern dating is last on my list.”
“You should let loose for tonight and focus on yourself. No work, no family matters, no obligations. Have fun, live a little.”
“I mean, it wouldn’t hurt. I do miss dancing and meeting new people,” I admit in a whisper.
Her expression brightens. “That’s what I'm talking about!”
“I think I’m going to get more sleep before my hairdresser appointment this afternoon. And I’m getting my nails done to match my dress.”
“Are you still keeping your costume a secret?”
“Yes, you have to wait until tonight to see it. But you should know it'll be my best one yet.”
“Any hints?”
I play with my hair, acting coy. “This won't be the golden blonde you're used to seeing. That's all I'll say.”
Tove brings our plates stacked with waffles and strawberries, and extra whipped cream. “Here you go, ladies. Enjoy.”
“Thanks, Tove,” we say in unison and take the first bites.
The sweetness of the berries mixed with the warm, crispy texture of the waffle makes me hum in delight. This place knows how to make breakfast feel like an indulgence.
