'Two souls chosen by fate, who loved each other and supported each other through anything, but were separated by different dreams'
As the private jet soared through the skies, bound for Osaka, Japan, Maya sat with her headphones on, lost in thought. The soft hum of the engines and the gentle turbulence couldn't shake her from her reverie. Her assistant, Kimberly, busy with the tablet, glanced over, noticing her boss's stressed expression.
"My lady, is everything okay? You seem troubled," Kimberly asked, trying to break the silence. Maya slowly looked up, her eyes distant, and replied, "Just memories. And someone I don't want to see." The words hung in the air, heavy with unspoken meaning.
Kimberly's curiosity was piqued. She'd worked with Maya long enough to understand the boundaries, but she couldn't help but ask. "Oh my god, don't tell me it's like an ex?" Kimberly ventured, her voice barely above a whisper.
Maya's response was swift and stern. "Stop it. It's none of your business. Ask again, and you're jobless." The words cut through the air, and Kimberly's smile faltered. She nodded, backing off, and focused on her work.
Maya put on her headphones, drifting off to sleep as the plane continued on its journey. The gentle rocking motion and the soothing music lulled her into a fitful slumber. Hours later, the plane landed, and Maya woke up, stretching as she stood up. Her body felt stiff from the long flight, and she arched her back, trying to loosen up.
"My lady, the artist you're about to manage is waiting," Kimberly informed her, holding out a folder with the details. Maya took the folder, but her mind was elsewhere. She gazed out the window, her eyes lingering on the familiar sights of Osaka. The city's vibrant energy was muted for her, overshadowed by the weight of memories she'd rather forget.
"I'll meet the artist later," Maya said, her voice distant.
"I have somewhere to go first. Make sure everything is okay, and call if you need something," she instructed her assistant before getting into a car and heading out. As Kimberly's eyes widened slightly, but she nodded, accustomed to Maya's unpredictable schedule.
As she rode through the city, Maya's mind wandered back to the past. Seven years had passed since she last set foot in Osaka, and the memories still lingered. She asked the driver to stop at a bridge, and he pulled over near the entrance, the road coming to an end. As she got out, she took a long walk to the bridge, lost in thought, the sound of the river below her a soothing accompaniment to her reflections.
On the bridge, she spotted a girl standing alone, writing in a pink book – her favorite color. There was something familiar about her, but she couldn't quite place it – the way the sunlight danced in her hair, perhaps, or the gentle curve of her profile. As she approached the mysterious girl, their eyes met, and the girl's expression changed from calm to shocked. It was Zoey, and she looked just as surprised to see Maya. For a moment, they simply stared at each other, the only sound of the gentle lapping of the water below.
Zoey's face twisted, and she quickly faced the other direction, wiping tears from her eyes with the sleeve of her jacket. She started walking slowly, trying to compose herself, but her shoulders betrayed her, shaking slightly. "Hey, what are you doing here?" Maya called out, her voice carrying across the bridge, but Zoey didn't respond, instead quickening her pace as if trying to escape the unexpected encounter.
Maya watched her go, feeling a mix of emotions. She turned and started walking in the opposite direction, her phone ringing as she answered it.
"Yea, what is it now?" she asked her assistant, who informed her that the show was about to start.
"I'll be there shortly," she replied, making her way to the event venue.
Backstage, Maya watched the performances with a mix of distraction and unease. Her mind kept wandering back to Zoey, and the past they shared. As the event neared its conclusion, the lights dimmed, and the stage fell silent. The anticipation was palpable.
Suddenly, the lights blazed back to life, illuminating the entire arena. Maya's eyes widened as a familiar voice boomed, "Are you ready, Osaka?" The crowd erupted in a deafening "YESSS!!"
As Zoey took the stage, the audience's excitement reached a fever pitch. The assistant beside Maya couldn't help but gush, "Oh, she's incredible! The whole place is electric because of her performance. Come on, my lady!"
Maya, however, remained stoic, her expression unreadable. Without a word, she turned and walked away, leaving the assistant's enthusiasm behind. She made her way to the roof, where she gazed up at the sky and closed her eyes for a brief moment.
The sound of footsteps approaching broke the silence. Maya opened her eyes to find Zoey walking towards her. "The sky does look nice up here, doesn't it?" Zoey said, her voice smooth as silk.
Maya stepped back, her eyes avoiding Zoey's. In her haste, she lost her footing and stumbled. Zoey rushed to her side, grasping her waist to prevent her fall. "Whoa, are you okay? You're not scared of me, are you?" Zoey asked, her eyes locked on Maya's.
Maya's face flushed with anger and hurt as she pushed Zoey away, her hands trembling slightly. "You're dead to me," she spat, her words cutting through the air. "Can you let me go now?" she demanded, her voice laced with annoyance and a hint of desperation, her eyes flashing with a mixture of pain and fury.
Zoey's expression turned thoughtful, her eyes welling up with a mix of sadness and hurt. "That really stings, doesn't it? Seven years can change a person…" Her voice was laced with a hint of pain, as if Maya's words had struck a chord deep within her.
Maya cut her off, her anger boiling over. "You can change your appearance, but you can't hide who you truly are. I'm here for work, that's all. And no matter how you try to disguise yourself, you'll always be rotten to the core. I always wanted to tell you that, and I'm glad I finally got the chance. I hate you, Zoey."
With that, Maya turned and walked away, leaving Zoey standing alone on the rooftop.
In Zoey's mind, there was only silence, and she had no strength left to follow or stop Maya after hearing those words. She just sat down, thinking about what to do now. "She really can't forgive me, huh? What now? This is annoying," said Zoey, sad and worried about how they would work together while she was like this. Tears streamed down her face as she couldn't stop them.
Meanwhile, Maya, after walking away from Zoey, started to experience a migraine. She fell on the stairs, and a loud sound alarmed Zoey. Zoey rushed to see what happened and found Maya lying on the stairs, cold and unconscious. Zoey panicked, holding Maya up and crying, "No, Maya, please don't leave me… Look, I can do anything for you… What do I do? She's passing out." Zoey called her assistant and then the hospital, holding Maya closely until the ambulance arrived.
A few minutes passed, and they arrived at the hospital. The doctor asked who Maya was to Zoey, and she replied that Maya was her partner. The doctor asked Zoey to calm down and sign the forms, telling her to wait while checking Maya's condition.
After some time, the doctor informed Zoey that Maya was okay, just suffering from a migraine caused by stress and overworking. Zoey entered Maya's ward, relieved to see Maya sleeping. She held Maya's hand, overwhelmed by everything. "Maybe it's me who caused this, or my sudden appearance did this. I know you can't forgive me, but I'm truly sorry for everything that happened," Zoey said, tears streaming down her face.
As Zoey was about to leave, Maya's hand held her arm. Maya looked at Zoey and said, "Do you even know what you're apologizing for? I have many reasons to hate you or be angry at you. You need to be specific." Zoey avoided eye contact, scared and showing respect. "I don't know how to answer or talk after everything that happened," Zoey said. "I don't want to make you angrier, but please, can we talk about… it affects other people."
Maya let go of Zoey's hand, laughing slightly. "You're really something… Ms. Maya? What is that? And yes, I'm not married yet, of course, my ex was something, but we'll leave it there for now. You can go now; I'm okay. This is a hospital, so you don't need to be here, okay, Ms. Idol?" Maya laid down on the bed.
"I won't leave like that," Zoey said. "I'm still worried about you." Zoey noticed Maya's hair color had changed, but one spot remained the same. She touched Maya's hair, surprised to see the black and white color left. "I thought you didn't have it anymore, but it's still there," Zoey said. Maya replied, "It's just there; I got lazy. Do you remember what it means, or have you forgotten?" "No, I still remember everything like it was yesterday," Zoey said, looking at Maya and thinking about it
As Zoey said, "No, I still remember everything like yesterday," she looked at Maya, her eyes filled with nostalgia. Maya's thoughts drifted back to the memories they shared, and she vividly recalled holding hands as they watched the sunset. Maya had held Zoey closer, and they had smiled at each other, creating a beautiful and pure moment.
"I really appre—" Zoey started to say, but she was interrupted by the sound of the door opening. Maya's assistant entered, carrying food and clothes, and Zoey stopped speaking. The assistant was shocked to see a celebrity like Zoey visiting Maya and asked what she was doing there. Zoey smiled and said, "Well, I had to check on my new manager. It would be bad if she got hurt on my watch, you know. Oh, I have a photo shoot in the morning, so I need to get some rest."
As Zoey made her excuses and slowly walked to the door, Kimberly watched her leave with a mixture of curiosity and scrutiny. After Zoey departed, Kimberly turned to Maya and said, "Hmm, my lady, she's such a strange person, don't you agree? There's something about her demeanor that just doesn't seem quite right."
But Maya was smiling, having felt a sense of warmth and care from Zoey's visit. She seemed to see something in Zoey that Kimberly didn't, and her expression was a gentle rebuke to Kimberly's harsh judgment.
Maya's expression quickly returned to normal, and she said, "Well, who knows? Anyway, what are you doing here with all this food? Are we hosting a party in the hospital?" The assistant explained that she had brought food in case Maya needed it and mentioned that Maya's sister would be visiting soon.
Maya's face fell, and she said, "That's just great. She adds more irritation and stress. Why is she here?" The assistant bowed her head and replied, "I work for you, my lady. I didn't realize she would be here, and I had no choice but to accommodate her."
As the assistant prepared food for Maya, Zoey exited the hospital and waited for her driver to arrive. She spotted a familiar person in the distance but was relieved when her driver arrived, and she got into the car. The driver asked if she was okay, and Zoey replied, "Yes, can you take me to my condo?"
During the drive, Zoey received a call from her assistant, Karen. Karen asked where Zoey was and why she had disappeared after the performance. Zoey explained that she had something to deal with and was tired. Karen reminded Zoey about her photo shoot the next morning and told her to get enough rest.
Zoey giggled and teased Karen about acting like her girlfriend. Karen playfully responded, but Zoey dropped the call, leaving Karen confused.
When Zoey arrived at her condo, she took a deep breath, feeling relieved to be alone. She walked into her living room, took off her jacket, and clapped her hands to turn on the lights.
Meanwhile, back in Maya's hospital ward, she was lost in thought, her mind wandering to Zoey. Before she could process her feelings, the door burst open, and her little sister, Charlotte, rushed in, screaming "Big sister!!!" as she hugged Maya tightly. The assistant, Kimberly, followed close behind, saying, "Oh, it's Lady Charlotte … I didn't expect that. Anyway, your sister is still not in good shape."
Maya looked at Charlotte, shaking her head, "Hey, stop being cute. Don't tell me you want something or need my help again. You always bring problems to me. What's it now?" Charlotte's expression turned serious, and she replied, "No, it's nothing serious. I just missed you and thought I'd visit. Kimberly here panicked about you being in the hospital, so I came to check on you."
Maya raised an eyebrow, "Stop exaggerating. It was just a migraine, not a heart attack. I got here in time, so relax." Charlotte and Kimberly exchanged a look, then Charlotte said, "Oh, wow, you got here in time. I wonder who saved you… Wonder Woman, perhaps?" Kimberly chimed in, laughing, "In this case, it was Princess Charming. You should've seen her smiling; I almost had a cardiac arrest."
Maya's expression remained neutral, and the room fell silent. Kimberly quickly apologized, "Sorry, my lady. I didn't mean it." Charlotte intervened, "Aww, big sister, stop bullying her. She was just joking. Relax, okay? I'll treat you to dinner and dessert when you get out of here."
Maya nodded, "Fine. I'm sleepy. You two can leave now. I need to rest." As Charlotte and Kimberly exited the room, Kimberly covered Maya with a blanket and said, "My lady, if you need anything, just call me or the doctor. We'll check on you tomorrow morning." After they left, Maya drifted off to sleep.
Back in Zoey's condo, she was in the bathtub taking a bath while thinking about what Maya said to her. She was replaying flashes from the past, and it felt like she had gone back in time. The memories felt real, and she had to pretend to be okay to avoid making things worse. She couldn't take it anymore, so she cried, unable to be herself in front of Maya. It wasn't fair. It felt like she was facing death, and she didn't know what to tell Maya, who she was still angry with.
After some time, she stood up, got out of the bathtub, and wrapped herself in a towel. She went to her room to change into comfortable clothes and get ready for bed. Before going to bed, she passed by the kitchen and noticed the unopened bottle of wine she had taken out earlier, which caught her attention. She thought to herself, "Maybe I'll pour a glass and unwind before bed."
Meanwhile, in the car outside the hospital, Kimberly and Charlotte were talking about Maya. Charlotte asked Kimberly what happened, as she had gotten the story mid-point and didn't understand why Maya's mood was off. Kimberly replied, "Well, what I know is that Zodiac was there in person. I mean, I was shocked. I don't understand the whole thing."
Charlotte said, "Oh, you mean her… You mean Zoey? I saw someone familiar leaving the hospital earlier today. She was acting weird… I wanted to say hello and all." Kimberly cut her off, jumping closer to Charlotte and screaming with excitement. Charlotte blushed a little, seeing a face she missed and hadn't seen in a while. She smiled and pulled Kimberly closer to her chest, looking down at her.
"Well, you can stop obsessing over someone who isn't me, okay? I really feel jealous," Charlotte said, kissing Kimberly on the forehead gently. Kimberly blushed red, stuffing her face on Charlotte's chest, and said, "Ohm, Lady Charlotte… I know, but do you have to catch me off guard? You're cheating with being a Sweet Talker… and beautiful… Not just that, you know my weaknesses too, and you always use them against me."
As they hugged, Kimberly looked up and sneaked in a gentle kiss on Charlotte's lips. They enjoyed the moment, and the world seemed to melt away. After some minutes, they arrived at the hotel where Charlotte was staying. Charlotte got out of the car first, pulled Kimberly out, and carried her to the room. She laid her on the bed, took off her shoes, and covered her with a blanket before going to shower.
The next morning, the alarm clock rang at 6 o'clock. Kimberly woke up, kissed Charlotte on the cheek, and got up to shower and prepare for Zoey's photoshoot. She needed to be there since Maya was in the hospital. After showering, Kimberly started preparing breakfast. Charlotte woke up, saw her lover making breakfast, and slowly approached her, hugging her from behind and kissing her cheek.
"Hey there, darling… You're making breakfast? That's nice. But I don't understand why you're out of bed so early," Charlotte said. Kimberly replied, "Well, sweetie, I have work, so I had to do it early. I'm cooking because you're cute, and I carried you to bed… I mean, you know I was so tired, like what the damn… Your older sister doesn't give me breaks, hmm…"
Charlotte's face changed as she was reminded of carrying Kimberly, and she showed a face of despair. "Oh yeah, the carrying… Mmm," she said in a lower voice. Kimberly looked at her, confused about the expression, and asked, "Babe, why do you look tired? Is something wrong?"
Then Charlotte said, "Well, yeah… I mean, babe, to be honest, I think you need to lessen the food you eat. I mean, it was not easy carrying you. Your boobs are really doing what they were made for, adding to the weight. Why are they big? I mean, I'm not jealous or anything… My energy is gone. Maybe a coffee would fix this."
Kimberly replied, annoyed, and started teasing Charlotte by saying, "What did you say? Oh, well, if you want to sleep alone or be alone for like… I don't know… don't have a calculator on me or calendar to count that out… I mean, last time I checked, you are flat so yay me and thanks for the compliment."
Charlotte blushed, touched her chest, and said, "I am not that flat, okay… Just, uh, as a person, we don't have the same gifts. I mean, I have a big heart, so yeah… But you don't have to be like that. I was just kidding… Hmm, I mean, my back is kind of broken, though."
As Charlotte approached Kim, she hugged her from behind, holding her tight. "You know I like joking, right?" Charlotte said, her voice low and playful. "How about this? I'll treat you later when you get back. Anything you like, I'll do it. No questions." Kim replied, "Yea, whatever… I know you like them. You're such a pervert." Charlotte asked, "What about telling your older sister about us? You said anything." Kim waited for Charlotte's reply, her eyes fixed on Charlotte's face.
Charlotte soon replied, "What are you crazy? That's a thing I can't do. You know my sister, and she's your boss. She would freak out. No, no, we have to do something else." Kim was disappointed but didn't show it. "No, I was just wondering. You don't need to worry. I can keep being your secret girlfriend, okay?" Kim slowly walked out of Charlotte's hands, took off the apron, and left it on the kitchen table. As she went out without saying goodbye, she said, "Look, I am so…" But Charlotte cut her off by slamming the door.
After some time passed, Zoey woke up, sleeping in the living room with an empty wine glass in her hand. She looked around, suddenly hearing a knock on the door. "Who is that? It's so early," she said, placing the glass on the kitchen counter. She went to open the door and saw Kimberly, Maya's assistant.
Kimberly was shocked that Zoey wasn't ready. "What? You're not yet ready? Why didn't you even check the time? Hello, did you forget the photo shoot today?" Zoey panicked, rushing to the bathroom to prepare herself. "Anyway, what time is it now? Why didn't you call me before storming my condo?" Kimberly replied, "Well, it's late. Hurry up. Oh, I know you were drinking. That's why you didn't get up in time, huh?"
Zoey popped out after some time, dressed in casual gym clothes. She took the glass to the dishwasher and put it in. "It was just two glasses. I was going through stuff. It helps me relax… Can we go now? I'm ready." Kimberly looked at her, thinking about something. "Is that what you're wearing? Isn't there anything else?" Zoey replied, "Oh, well, it's last-minute fashion, I guess." Kimberly took a deep breath and opened the door. "Come on, we'll be late."
As they arrived at the photo shoot venue, Kimberly was stressed and in a bad mood. "We're here," she said, opening the door. Zoey followed her, and they were welcomed by the people waiting at the door. The photo shoot lasted for three hours, with Zoey posing in different outfits and settings.
When it finished, Zoey said, "Oh my god, I'm so tired. That took forever." She sat down, noticing that something was bothering Kim. "Aww, that's cute, Lottie. So, who's that? Your lover? What's wrong? Are you okay?" Kim replied, "Can you stop that? It's complicated. She doesn't want to be open about us."
Kim left soon after, and Zoey stood up, talking to herself. "I think she'll come around. Maybe she's going through something with her family. I think the best thing to do is support and love them regardless." As Kim walked away, she said, "Yes, I'll do that. It seems you have experience, Ms. Zodiac."
After the photo shoot, Zoey went to a local florist store and ordered white lilies. She then headed to the hospital to see Maya. When she arrived, Maya was preparing to check out. Maya turned around, looking at Zoey with disgust. "What are you doing here? I have no time for this, okay." Zoey was shocked, and her heart dropped.
Maya took and threw the bouquet of white lilies on the floor, angry. Zoey looked down, crying, and recalled memories of bad things. She had a panic attack and fell on the floor. Maya was shocked and confused. She got down and pulled Zoey close, trying to calm her down. "There, there, it's okay. I'm here," Maya said softly.
As Zoey calmed down, she experienced a feeling she missed – being cared for by the one she loved. Maya held her tight, and Zoey felt a sense of comfort and security. As the nurse opened the door, Zoey got shy and stood up, bowing. The nurse was surprised, and Maya quickly hid her emotions, picking up the flowers.
Zoey left the room, leaving the flowers behind. Maya smiled a little, wondering why Zoey reacted that way. As she watched Zoey leave, she couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions – anger, sadness, and love
As Zoey was walking, she was lost in thought, replaying the recent events in her mind. She was blushing and smiling, feeling hopeful that things might work out. As she walked, her eyes were cast downward, and she bumped into someone. "Oh, sorry about that," she said.
To her surprise, the person was Charlotte, also known as Mrs. Zodiac. "Well, well, well, if it isn't Mrs. Zodiac," Zoey said, trying to sound casual. "How have you been? Did you see her yet?"
Zoey's expression changed to one of loss and defeat when Charlotte mentioned Maya. "I'm not okay," Zoey said. "Things are getting worse, and I don't know what to do. Should I just give up?"
Charlotte's expression turned sad, and she suggested they get some fresh air. They walked to a nearby bench outside the hospital, and Charlotte offered Zoey a bottle of water. "My sister suffered a lot," Charlotte said. "She hasn't had happiness in seven years. But I think she needs you. Her room is filled with pictures of you, and they've helped her overcome many things."
Zoey took a sip of water, looking at Charlotte with tears in her eyes. "If you want to know what happened, ask her," Zoey said. "I don't know what to say. If it's true, then why did she say she hates me and acts like I'm a virus?"
Charlotte hugged Zoey, looking shocked. "I'm really sorry about that," she said. "But I can help you. She'll have to listen to you. Just calm down, okay?"
Zoey pulled back, scared that Maya would see them and freak out. "I think we should stop," she said. "She'll get the wrong idea again."
Charlotte looked confused but understanding. "Aren't we friends?" she asked. "She knows I'm just hugging my friend."
Zoey smiled weakly and stood up. "I think I should go," she said. "I'm really drained."
As Zoey walked away, Charlotte called out, "Promise me you'll be fine. If not, I'll come and get you to live with me. Call me when you get home, okay?"
Charlotte watched Zoey go, looking concerned. "What really happened to them?" she wondered.
As Charlotte entered the hospital, she saw Maya walking out, carrying a suitcase and holding white lilies. Maya's smile caught Charlotte off guard – it was the first time in years she'd seen her sister look so carefree. Charlotte's surprise turned to excitement, and she rushed over to hug Maya.
"Older sister!" Charlotte exclaimed.
Maya was taken back by the sudden hug and gently pushed Charlotte away, wincing slightly as she moved. "Hey, I'm still in a bit of pain from the hospital," she said. "Can you take me home? I want to rest."
Charlotte apologized and asked, "Are you really hurt, or do you just not want to be hugged by me?" She teased Maya, "I saw you smiling, and you look adorable. You're really cute when you're happy. Do you like someone that much?"
Maya winced in pain as Charlotte helped her into the car, her injured leg throbbing with each step. Maya avoided the question, focusing on the flowers instead.
"Can we go now?" she asked.
As they prepared to leave, Charlotte couldn't help but notice the suitcase and flowers. She playfully asked, "Why is love so wonderful?"
Maya rolled her eyes. "Save it for your girlfriend."
Charlotte's eyes widened, and she panicked, "Who? I don't have one. Who said I have one?" She quickly composed herself and started the car.
Maya replied nonchalantly, "Fine, okay. You don't have to act weird about it."
The next day, Maya was still sleeping when a call from her assistant, Kimberly, woke her up. "Yea, what is it? I'm sleeping," Maya answered, her voice groggy from the sudden interruption.
Kimberly's voice was firm, with a hint of urgency. "What are you still sleeping? Do you know what time it is? It's noon. Did you forget you're here on behalf of the company, managing someone?" Maya's annoyance was palpable as she sat up in bed, rubbing her eyes. "I'm an assistant, not a manager, okay?"
Kimberly's tone turned sharp, a touch of frustration creeping in. "What? Did you forget who you're talking to? You're Lady Zodiac's manager, and I'm your assistant. Assist her, not the other way around." Maya's response was curt, her irritation evident. "Bye." She dropped the call and went back to sleep, leaving Kimberly looking at her phone in dismay.
Kimberly turned to Karen, Zoey's assistant, who was waiting for an update. "So, what did she say?" Karen asked, her voice laced with impatience. "She's on her way… I mean, Lady Zodiac is waiting for Lady Maya. We've been waiting for a long time now."
Kimberly shook her head, frustration etched on her face. "I don't know. She just hung up on me." She tried calling Maya again, but it went straight to voicemail. She sent messages, but there was no response.
As Zoey emerged from the dressing room, ready for the interview, she asked Karen, "Well, where is she? Where is Maya?" Kimberly replied, her tone formal, "She is Lady Maya to you, not Maya. And she's not coming for some reason. You need to go in there now."
Karen's calm demeanor was a contrast to Kimberly's tension. "Well, you shouldn't speak to her like that, too," she said, her voice soft. Zoey intervened, her voice soothing. "Can you two relax? I don't need more stress, okay? I already have a lot." She turned to Kimberly. "Fine, Miss Kimberly. I'll go."
As Kimberly helped Zoey with her mic and escorted her backstage, Karen followed them, her presence making Kimberly uncomfortable. The tension between them was palpable, a silent clash of personalities.
As the host introduced Zoey, the audience applauded, and she took her seat, forcing a smile. The cameras made her nervous, but she tried to focus on the questions. When the host asked about her song "Nostalgia," Zoey's emotions surfaced. "I wrote that song in memory of someone who was or is in my heart, making them see that I remember and I'm apologizing about the past. I think that's the message of the song."
As she spoke, Zoey's voice cracked, and she cried, wiping away tears. The host offered her tissues and a glass of water, and the audience was silent, shocked. The host's next question caught Zoey off guard: "Do you think that person heard it or responded to it?" Zoey hesitated, unsure of how to respond, her eyes welling up with tears again.
Meanwhile, outside, a black Lamborghini arrived. The security guards looked around, trying to identify the driver. As the door opened, Maya stepped out, wearing striking dark red gothic-style clothing. The guards were taken aback by her appearance but knew better than to question her. They parted to let her through, and as she approached the door, they hurried to open it for her.
Maya walked in with a serious expression, her presence commanding attention. No one knew she was coming, but she made her way to the stage, where Zoey was shocked to see her. Before Zoey could react, Maya caused a scene, telling the host to refrain from asking personal questions. The host tried to explain, but Maya cut her off, grabbing Zoey's hand and pulling her away.
As they navigated through the crowd, Maya didn't seem to have a plan, but she took Zoey to her car, passing by security guards and fans, including Karen and Kimberly, who tried to stop them. Once in the car, Zoey smiled and said, "I'm okay," but Maya's worried expression lingered.
Zoey asked Maya why she was there, and Maya replied that she had a feeling Zoey was in trouble. Zoey raised an eyebrow, surprised by Maya's answer, and asked if she still believed in their connection. Maya remained silent, and the ride to her house was quiet.
When they arrived, Maya tried to touch Zoey's hand, but Zoey pulled away. Maya expressed her desire to talk about what had happened between them, mentioning the hospital and seeking the truth. Zoey's response was laced with anger and hurt, accusing Maya of being selfish and arrogant.
The argument escalated, and Zoey got out of the car, leaving the door open as she walked away. Maya followed, telling Zoey to stay for the night and promising to have the maids prepare a room for her. As Zoey went to her room, Maya retreated to hers, lost in thought, and later took a shower to clear her head. Zoey, meanwhile, lay on the bed, eventually drifting off to sleep.
Maya couldn't sleep, so she decided to get water. Dazed by sleeping pills, she approached the kitchen, grabbed water, and drank it, wondering if the pills would work. Thinking twice, she left. As she walked, she passed Zoey's room where Zoey was sleeping. Maya stopped at the door, peeked inside, and slowly approached the bed. She moved the blanket, fixed it around Zoey, and kissed her forehead. Wiping away tears, she backed away quietly. "What am I doing?" she muttered. "I think I should go sleep." Yawning, the pills kicked in. As she stood up carefully not to disturb Zoey, a hand grabbed her arm. Zoey whispered, "Please don't leave. I need you." Those words echoed in Maya's soul. "Just this once, okay," Maya breathed, easing her hand free. She climbed into bed, yawning, and lay down beside Zoey. Zoey cuddled close, murmuring, "So warm, Maya." Maya mumbled, "Ohm… just this once… okay…" The pills won, and she fell asleep holding Zoey tight, Zoey resting on her chest, finding comfort in Maya's warmth.
The next day, 12:17 p.m. Both Zoey and Maya slept till afternoon. Zoey was comfortable, held close and warm; Maya was sedated by pills. Zoey woke first, opening her eyes to an awkward but beautiful situation. Experiencing duality, she didn't know what to do. "Why is she so soft and warm… No, I'm mad at her, remember," Zoey whispered, torn. A familiar voice at the door interrupted her thoughts. Maya's assistant, Kim, entered. Zoey froze, a deer in headlights, blushing. Kim was stunned, seeing her boss with Zoey—the idol Zodiac. Thinking she was dreaming, Kim backed out quietly, asking a maid, "Is Maya here?" The maid nodded. "She's with Lady Zoey." Kim's eyes widened. _Lady Zoey_. She peeked back in; Zoey scrambled off the bed, blushing, and rushed out without a word. Kim stared at sleeping Maya, questions swirling. She rushed to wake Maya.
Kim shook Maya awake. Rubbing her eyes, Maya stretched, looking around. Kim's serious gaze met hers. "My Lady, are you looking for Miss Idol?" Maya cut her off, blank-faced. "I have to shower." She stood, grabbed a towel, and vanished into the bathroom. Kim was flabbergasted. Why were they avoiding her questions? As Maya shut the door, Kim left, puzzled. Meanwhile, Zoey fled to the garage, grabbed the keys to Maya's white Ferrari, and drove off to her condo without calling a driver or taxi.
Kim returned to Maya, knocking on the bathroom door. Maya, post-shower, wrapped in a towel, said, "What do you want?" Kim panicked, "My Lady, she took your car. Should I call the police?" Maya smiled, folding her arms. "The white Ferrari? I need to go somewhere today. If that's all, take a day off. I'll handle Ms. Zodiac's contract." Dismissing Kim, Maya dressed, grabbed Zoey's things, and mulled over what to do, stressed. Kim left speechless, hailing a taxi to Charlotte's. Ignored by Charlotte lately, Kim arrived tense, hugged tight to her bag. "I'm home," she whispered. Charlotte hugged her from behind. "Kim, don't be angry… I'm sorry." Kim cut her off. "You know. Let me go. I need a shower. My day's complicated enough."
As Charlotte didn't let her go, she held her tighter, her grip like a lifeline. "Sorry, I didn't mean to hurt you like this," she whispered, her breath hitching. As she said, "I know I promised you I'd tell her about us, but it's not that easy, you know. My older sister is dealing with a lot, and she's your boss, remember. So please give me time. I can do _anything_ for you." Tears welled up in her eyes, streaming down her cheeks, and her shoulders shook softly. Kim turned to look at her, her own eyes brimming with tears. She couldn't stand seeing the one she loves cry. She slowly wiped Charlotte's tears with her thumbs, her touch gentle as a feather. "I know you disappointed her, but you have to live your life too," Kim murmured, her voice cracking. "I just don't want to be a secret, okay." The black circles under Charlotte's eyes told stories of sleepless nights, and Kim's heart ached. She hugged Charlotte slowly, patting her head in soothing circles. "Did you cry a lot again? Aww, sorry, Charlotte."
In a shaking, breaking voice, Charlotte whispered, "You leave me in the cold, you know… You're my sunshine. Without you, I don't feel warm. Please don't leave again." Her words dissolved into sobs, and Kim pulled her closer, kissing her gently on the lips to make her stop sulking. Charlotte's body stilled, blushing fiercely, caught off guard by the tender kiss. Kim smiled softly, pulling back just enough to speak against Charlotte's lips. "Well, I promise not to leave you again, okay." She lifted her left hand, making a pinky promise gesture to Charlotte. Charlotte lifted her right hand, her fingers trembling as they hooked pinkies with Kim. "You must not break that promise, okay," Charlotte whispered, her voice tiny but fierce.
Kim grinned, saying, "Want to shower together as reconciliation?" She said it holding Charlotte's hand, leading her to the bathroom. The tiles were cold underfoot, but the air grew steamy as they undressed in silence, their clothes dropping to the floor like discarded thoughts. They stepped into the shower, hot water enveloping them, and Kim pulled Charlotte into a tight hug under the spray. They stood there, breathing each other in, the water washing away tears and tension.
Meanwhile, Maya waited two days to go to Zoey's, not prepared to see her after what happened in the hospital and on the roof, but she had no choice. She was parked in front of Zoey's condo, engine idling, scanning the sidewalk for any sign of her. _What am I doing?_ she muttered, gripping the steering wheel. She got out of her car, taking Zoey's things and the unsigned contract, locking her car with a soft beep. Approaching the entrance of the posh condo, she saw a maid polishing silverware and the receptionist tapping away on a tablet. Maya looked around more, hoping to glimpse Zoey's wild hair or sharp smile, but she was nowhere. She approached the receptionist's desk, greeting them with a practiced smile. "Good afternoon. Is Zoey Zodiac in?"
The maid, with a respectable tone (Maya was well-known for her wealth and influence), leaned in. "Lady Zoey checked out last night, ma'am. She didn't say where she was going." Maya's smile froze. _How will I get to her? I mean, I have her phone with me, and now she's missing._ A mix of guilt and frustration swirled in her gut. She thanked the maid curtly and said goodbye, returning to her car. Stressed, she drummed her fingers on the steering wheel, thinking where Zoey could be. _The bridge._ They met there the other day. It was worth a shot.
She started the car and drove, the city blurring past her windows. Moments after she arrived at the deserted bridge, she spotted Zoey's white car parked haphazardly. Maya stopped, killed the engine, and got out, her heels clicking on asphalt. Closing the door, it locked automatically. She walked to the bridge's railing, her eyes scanning the shadows. Zoey sat there, legs dangling over the edge, staring at the river below. "Thought I'd find you here. I guess I was right," Maya said, her voice softer than she Intended.
Zoey looked up, dark hair whipping in the breeze. "Well, I didn't really make it hard to be found, you know… You're the last person I thought would come for me. What do you want?" Her tone was sharp, but her eyes looked brittle, like they might shatter. Maya was surprised by the words. "Well, I know I'm not your favorite person. The feeling's mutual, but I came here to return your stuff. That's it, okay." She reached Zoey, handed over the bag and contract, then turned to leave, memories swamping her. The hospital smell, the roof's cold wind, Zoey's tears. She felt trapped. Hurrying, she unlocked her car and got inside, shutting the door hard. She drove off fast, crying before she even hit the road, not knowing where to start or what to say to Zoey.
Zoey remained on the bridge, clutching her things, looking down at the dark water. A tear fell from her chin, hitting her jeans. "So she really forgot about our anniversary today," she whispered, her voice fading like the light. She broke down crying, body shaking with sobs. As her eyes closed, memories flooded back, and she was transported to The Bridge of Memories. The sun was setting, casting a warm glow over the worn stones. She saw Maya's smile, and their eyes met for the first time. 14 years ago… "The moment that would alter the course of their lives forever…" Zoey's breathing slowed, lost in the past, tears still streaming down her face.