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"But don't get too comfortable," Marley warned playfully. "Remember, we have big plans for our future in the city."
A pang of longing struck me. I missed the vibrant energy of the city, the endless opportunities, and the fellowship of our friends there.
"I know, Marley," I said, a hint of wistfulness in my voice. "I'm looking forward to getting back."
"Then don't linger," Marley urged. "Pack your bags and come back to the city where we belong."
Her words ignited a spark within me. I was ready to embrace the city's excitement and pursue our shared dreams.
"You're right, Marley," I declared with newfound determination. "I'm coming back to the city at the end of the summer, and we're going to make our mark."
Marley's laughter echoed through the receiver. "I knew you'd see the light, Casey," she said, her voice brimming with pride.
I laughed and hung up the phone, walking towards the door.
But before I could make it inside, a friendly voice called out to me. I turned to see Tamara, our neighbor, rushing over with a curious look on her face. Her vibrant smile greeted me as she reached my side.
"Hey there, Casey," Tamara said, her eyes sweeping over my disheveled appearance. "What happened to you? You look like you've been through a battle!"
I chuckled, despite the exhaustion weighing me down, and began to explain. "Oh, just helping out a friend with a ranch restoration project. It's been a lot of hard work, but it's worth it."
Tamara's eyes seemed to light up with recognition. "A ranch? I think I know the one you're talking about. It's been neglected for years. I'm so glad someone is finally taking care of it. It used to be such a beautiful place."
I nodded in agreement, grateful for Tamara's enthusiasm. "Yes, it's quite a project, but we're all excited to see it restored to its former glory."
Tamara patted my shoulder, a gesture of support. "Well, it's wonderful that you're doing your part. If you ever need anything or some help, don't hesitate to ask. It's great to see someone breathe new life into that place."
I smiled at her kindness and thanked her for the offer. Tamara's encouragement was a reassuring reminder that the hard work we were putting into the ranch was appreciated by the community.
“Wait.” Tamara thought for a moment. “Would you want to come over? For a girl’s night? I could give you a makeover!” Tamara clapped her hands together in excitement.
“Umm.” I thought for a moment. Rain started to fall around us.
“Oh, please? You’ll love it!” Tamara watched me and waited for my answer.
“Well. It’s still kind of early. Sure. Why not?”
Tamara squealed and took my hand, pulling me into her house.
I found myself standing in Tamara's shower, surrounded by an impressive assortment of colorful bottles, each holding an array of scented soaps, scrubs, perfumes, and other potions and lotions. The sight was both enchanting and bewildering, leaving me to puzzle over the purpose of each container.
On the other side of the shower curtain, I heard Tamara's voice full of enthusiasm. "Alright, Casey, are you ready for your spa night?"
I took a deep breath and nodded, even though she couldn't see my response. "I guess I am, but I have no idea where to start with all these bottles, Tamara." I told her to wait outside, but she insisted on coming into the bathroom. She was bold. It was new to me.
Tamara's cheerful laughter filled the room. "No worries, I've got you covered. First, let's start with the lavender-scented body wash." She pointed out a lavender bottle with a knowing tone in her voice.
I picked up the bottle and inspected it closely. "Got it. Lavender body wash," I affirmed as I began to apply the fragrant product to a loofah, creating a gentle lather. The soothing scent wafted through the steam-filled air, immediately putting me at ease. It made my skin really soft, and the brown dirt slid off my body and rolled down the drain.
With Tamara's guidance, I ventured further into the array of products, moving from exfoliating scrubs to moisturizing lotions. Tamara's instructions provided a sense of direction, and the combined scents transformed the shower into a serene spa environment. We continued our conversation and shared laughter as I indulged in the delightful self-care routine.
After the shower, my spa night with Tamara continued with a series of beauty treatments that, while slightly uncomfortable, were also filled with laughter.
Tamara, who had taken on the role of both spa therapist and close friend, started by plucking my eyebrows. I had to stifle a few surprised yelps as she expertly shaped them, making them look much more polished. We shared a few giggles about my dramatic reactions, and it made the whole process much more enjoyable.
Next came the upper lip waxing, and I braced myself for the inevitable discomfort. Tamara applied the wax and, with a swift motion, removed it. I winced and tried not to yelp too loudly, which only made Tamara chuckle. "Don't worry, Casey, beauty is pain, right?"
Tamara gently applied a mud mask, which was very welcoming against the burn of my eyebrows and lip. As the face mask worked its magic on my skin, Tamara brushed a sweet-smelling oil through my hair, transforming it from a frizzy mess into sleek, shiny strands. I closed my eyes, basking in the pampering and the soothing aroma of the oil. It was a welcome reprieve from the ranch work I had been immersed in earlier.
