Faking Paradise

The next day, Carla stirred awake, an overwhelming sense of relief washing over her. The memories of yesterday's dizzy spell lingered at the edges of her mind, but they faded against the comforting reality that enveloped her now. She hadn’t moved from the bed since she had collapsed onto it yesterday, her body grateful for the sanctuary it had found. What she thought would be a brief afternoon nap had morphed into an indulgently deep slumber, one that cradled her in its embrace through the night.

She opened her eyes, blinking against the gentle light filtering through the curtains, and felt a surge of energy coursing through her. The exhaustion that had weighed her down—the long hike and the emotional turmoil—had finally eased. But it wasn't just the rest that buoyed her spirits; it was the memory of falling asleep in Lisa's arms that warmed her heart.

For the first time in what felt like forever, Carla felt enveloped by an undeniable sense of safety. It was as if a protective bubble had formed around her, and at the center of that cocoon was Lisa, her presence turning her own insecurities into dust. The way Lisa had held her, strong and unwavering, clung to her heart like a cherished melody. It was a healing embrace, grounding her, whispering promises of support and comfort into her ear, even in the quiet of sleep.

She turned slightly and caught sight of Lisa, still peacefully asleep beside her, her beautiful features softened in the morning light. Familiar tenderness washed over Carla, and she couldn’t help but smile.

In that cocoon of warmth, with Lisa's arm still wrapped protectively around her, Carla felt a flicker of joy ignite within her. This was more than mere physical closeness; it was a bond of trust and comfort that lulled her heart into a tranquil state. For the first time in ages, she felt protected, as if nothing could reach her while Lisa was by her side.

A gentle sigh escaped her lips, and she remained still, savoring the moment. Every worry that had plagued her seemed to fade away. She marveled at how even in sleep, Lisa provided her with a sense of peace that swept away the remnants of doubt and fear.

Carla suddenly found herself wrestling with a whirlwind of emotions, as she remembered yesterday. Their shared kiss, intended to be a lighthearted moment for a photo, that had ignited something deep within her—something she hadn’t anticipated.

She replayed the kiss in her mind, the soft brush of Lisa’s lips against hers, the warmth that spread through her chest like wildfire. It had felt real, electric, leaving her breathless and wanting more. But the bliss of that moment had been followed by a sharp twist of anxiety. After the kiss, Lisa’s demeanor had shifted; she had pulled away, almost as if she were afraid to let the connection linger. The distance between them had been palpable, and it gnawed at Carla’s heart.

Then came the drama, the chaos that had unfolded so quickly. When she’d nearly fainted, Lisa had transformed from distant to deeply caring, rushing to her side with worry etched on her face. In that moment, Carla had seen another side of Lisa, one that shattered her apprehensions and filled her with warmth. But the question lingered in the back of her mind—did Lisa regret their kiss? Was that why she had retreated after?

As the minutes ticked by, she stayed lost in her thoughts. She was a tangled ball of emotions, teetering on the edge of confusion and fear. What if they had crossed an invisible line, and now everything was unravelling?

In the moments before they kissed, there had been a spark in the air—a tension that suggested they both wanted something more than this charade. Yet that spark seemed to flicker away after the kiss, leaving Carla feeling more vulnerable than ever.

She turned to look at Lisa again, frustration mixing with adoration. Lisa was a force of nature, and that made the confusion even harder to bear.

“Why are you so infuriating?” Carla whispered, her heart aching as she watched the peaceful rise and fall of Lisa’s body. She knew she had to find the courage to confront this uncertainty, to speak up about what she was feeling. But the fear of ruining the strong friendship they had worked to build was almost paralysing. This might not just be an act anymore, and she needed to know if they were both ready to embrace whatever lay beyond the facade.

Carla’s heart beat steadily in her chest as she gently lifted Lisa’s arm from around her waist. She paused, watching the way Lisa instinctively curled inward, still lost in her dreams. The tenderness of the moment tugged at Carla’s heartstrings, but she knew she needed to rise and find her footing for the day ahead.

With a careful grace, she shifted out of bed, inching forward until she could fully free herself. Once she was standing, Carla took a moment to collect herself, casting a glance at the peaceful figure still nestled in the sheets. A smile tugged at her lips; even in sleep, Lisa's beauty was undeniable.

Quietly, she tiptoed through the dimly lit room and headed to the bathroom. The soft light from the window spilled across the floor, illuminating her path. Carla splashed her face with cold water, letting the refreshing sensation wash away the lingering remnants of her confusion. She studied her reflection, taking a deep breath to steady herself. The doubts still loomed, but she couldn’t let them govern her day.

After brushing her teeth and letting the cool water invigorate her, Carla slipped on a comfortable outfit—an oversized t-shirt and leggings—that felt cozy against her skin. As she pulled her hair into a loose bun, her mind danced through potential conversations with Lisa, considering how to bridge the emotional distance that now felt so palpable.

As she caught sight of Lisa again, still wrapped in a cocoon of blankets, a wave of affection surged through her. Carla retrieved a pair of socks and tiptoed into the kitchen, hoping to keep the atmosphere light, even as her heart wrestled with uncertainty.

The quiet hum of the morning was soothing, surrounding Carla like a soft blanket as she prepared breakfast. She moved with care, making coffee and toasting bread while her mind ran through possible scenarios. What if Lisa felt the same? What if she didn’t?

Lost in thought, Carla nearly forgot what she was doing until the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, drawing her attention back to the present. She quickly plated some toast and added a drizzle of honey, before pouring 2 cups of coffee.

She carried the plates and coffee back to the bedroom on a tray, a hopeful smile spreading across her face as she entered. The sight of Lisa still peacefully dozing warmed her heart, and Carla couldn’t help but feel a flutter of excitement. The softness of the morning was almost magical, as if the world outside had slowed just for them.

“Breakfast is served,” Carla announced playfully, placing the tray on the bedside table. She leaned down and gently brushed a strand of hair off Lisa's forehead, letting her fingertips linger for just a second longer than necessary.

With a soft groan, Lisa stirred awake, her eyes fluttering open, revealing a sleepy smile. “Hey,” she murmured, her voice thick with sleep.

“Morning! I thought I’d let you sleep in a little,” Carla said, trying to keep the tone light despite the tension simmering beneath. “I made you some toast with honey.”

Lisa’s eyes sparkled with warmth as she sat up, the sheets falling away to reveal her in a simple t-shirt that she must have changed into last night. “You’re a lifesaver,” she replied, reaching for the plate with a hint of affection in her smile.

As they enjoyed their breakfast, the chatter flowed effortlessly. Laughter filled the room as they exchanged playful banter, a gentle reminder of the bond they shared. But as Carla watched Lisa, she felt a swell of determination. The conversation would have to happen; they could no longer sidestep the unspoken feelings lingering between them.

“Lisa,” Carla began, her heart racing slightly, “there’s something we need to talk about.”

Lisa paused with a bite of toast halfway to her mouth, her expression shifting to one of curiosity. “Okay… What’s up?”

The moment felt charged, a pivotal point poised between them. Carla took a deep breath, ready to unravel the web of emotions binding her.

“Ladies, are you decent?” Claire called cheerfully from the hallway, her voice echoing with excitement.

“Yeah, come in!” Lisa shouted back, her heart fluttering with an energy she couldn't quite place.

The door swung open, and Claire burst in, her face alight with enthusiasm. “Morning! Are you feeling better, Carla?” she asked, her eyes sparkling with genuine concern.

“Yeah, much better, thank you.” Carla smiled, relief washing over her like a warm embrace. “I think I really needed that sleep.”

“That’s great news! I have a surprise for you both!” Claire announced, her excitement palpable.

“Ooh, I love surprises! Can we know what it is?” Lisa couldn’t help but beam, her curiosity dancing in her eyes, yet a shadow of apprehension loomed in her chest.

Claire leaned in, practically bouncing on her feet. “So, before you guys arrived, when Adrian and I had the place to ourselves for a few days, I went into town and found some tickets for a romantic couples night at this beautiful, authentic restaurant not far from here. Adrian and I were planning our own date night, and I thought you two could use the tickets tonight!”

Lisa’s heart raced, a mix of excitement and dread flooding her veins. She nearly choked on her coffee, but managed to swallow it down, careful not to repeat her past blunder. It wasn’t that she didn’t want to spend an evening with Carla; it was the weight of yesterday’s kiss that twisted her stomach into knots.

Claire waited expectantly, but Carla remained silent, her gaze distant. Finally, Lisa broke the stillness. “Thanks, Claire. That sounds good.” She tried to infuse her voice with enthusiasm, but the anxiety bubbling beneath the surface cracked through, a fragile shell holding back a storm.

“Okay, perfect! I’ll leave the tickets downstairs on the table for you!” Claire exclaimed, practically skipping out of the room, her light-heartedness a stark contrast to the thick tension now filling the space.

Once Claire left, an awkward silence engulfed them. Carla’s mind raced, an urgency swelling within her. This could be the moment she’d been yearning for, the chance to have the heart-to-heart with Lisa that had been so abruptly interrupted by Claire’s arrival.

“So, do you want to actually go tonight?” Carla mustered, her voice wavering slightly, betraying her own fears.

Lisa paused, heart pounding, the weight of the moment almost too heavy to bear. “Well, it’s a free night out and a gift, so we can’t really say no.” She forced a smile, but it didn’t quite reach her eyes, the swirling anxiety and confusion visible beneath the surface.

Carla could see through the facade, and her heart ached. “I know it’s a gift,” she said gently, “But we don’t have to go if you don’t want to.”

As the words hung in the air, a flicker of dread ignited inside Carla at the thought of Lisa admitting she didn’t want to go. They’d danced around the truth for too long, and the opportunity was right in front of them. The thought of having that awkward yet pivotal conversation over a candlelit dinner sent shivers down her spine.

Lisa’s breath caught, her fear battling with a glimmer of possibility. “I’d like to go, if you do?” she whispered, vulnerability spilling from her lips.

“Me too,” Carla replied softly, her heart aching to reassure Lisa that whatever happened next was okay.

————————

The sun dipped low on the horizon, casting a warm, golden hue throughout the bedroom where Carla and Lisa were preparing for the evening ahead. Laughter and low music floated through the air, creating a lighthearted atmosphere that clashed with the tension building between them. The soft hum of anticipation filled the space, whispering secrets of emotions neither dared to fully acknowledge.

Carla stood before the mirror, her heart pounding as she adjusted the straps of her green maxi dress, the very piece she and Lisa had picked out together in a whirlwind of laughter and dreams. The fabric embraced her figure even better than before, accentuating her curves and stirring a thrilling warmth deep within her.

If only Lisa knew how often she haunted Carla's thoughts, weaving in and out of her heart like an unbidden melody. That thought lingered like a whisper, electrifying the air around her as she flicked her hair over her shoulder, a nervous gesture that felt charged with meaning.

Her gaze slid sideways to Lisa, who stood radiant in her sparkling blue dress, a vision of beauty that swept Carla’s breath away. God, she’s breathtaking. This feels like more than just pretend—a quiet storm brewing beneath the surface, rich with longing and unsaid feelings that threatened to spill over.

“Wow, you look incredible,” Carla said, her voice barely above a whisper. The complement hung heavily in the air, thick with an unspoken tension that drew them closer.

“Thanks! But that dress… It’s even more gorgeous on you now,” Lisa replied, her gaze lingering on Carla’s reflection. As their eyes met in the mirror, something shifted, holding a promise of something deeper and influential. She’s the dream I never thought I’d have. I wish I could tell her how I feel.

Carla swallowed hard, remembering the softness of Lisa’s lips, the way everything had felt perfectly right yet utterly confusing. The thought sent a shiver down her spine as she turned back to her reflection, needing a moment to collect herself. Maybe it was just a kiss, but it felt like so much more. I can’t keep pretending.

“What do you think Adrian and Claire will say when they see us all dressed up?” Lisa asked, breaking the momentary silence. Her voice was light, yet her eyes betrayed an earnestness that Carla couldn’t ignore.

“I think they’ll love it,” Carla replied, stepping closer to Lisa with a hint of hope. “I mean, we’ve done a great job pretending, haven’t we?” She tried to inject her tone with levity, but her heart fluttered as Lisa stepped into her space, their shoulders almost touching.

“Yeah, great job,” Lisa echoed, her expression revealing the discord between her carefree words and the tension surrounding them. Every moment shared had been a dance, filled with unacknowledged passion. I could lose myself in her tonight; I just know it.

With a soft breeze from the open window, Lisa could smell the salty sea air mixed with a touch of sunscreen, a reminder of every perfect moment they had shared since arriving in Spain. The laughter, the lingering touches, particularly yesterday’s kiss pulsed within her. I can’t ignore what we have anymore.

“Do you… do you think we should talk about yesterday?” Lisa finally asked, her voice barely above a whisper, tremors of uncertainty flowing through her words.

“I- I….,” Carla couldn’t get the words out, her heartbeat quickening as she felt the pull towards Lisa. The magnetic chemistry between them was intoxicating, but the words felt heavy on her tongue. What if we ruin everything?

A heavy silence descended, and Lisa brushed her fingers against the fabric of Carla's dress, tracing the delicate hem just inches from Carla’s skin. That simple touch sent an electric jolt through them, and the air thickened with possibility. If only this moment could last forever…

Carla leaned closer, feeling every nerve on fire, almost tasting the sweetness of the moment they had created. “If we talk about it—”

“Carla…” Lisa interrupted softly, her voice a mixture of desire and fear, as their eyes met in a blazing conflict between friendship and attraction. I’m terrified, but I can’t help wanting her.

Just as Carla leaned in closer, the warmth of possibility surrounding them, they heard Claire’s familiar laughter echoing from the living room. Reality crashed down around them, the spell momentarily broken.

Their faces were mere inches apart, warmth radiating between them, longing and fear mingling in the air. Carla hesitated, her heart pounding as she searched Lisa’s eyes for a signal—a sign that this was what they both wanted. Is this too much? Will we ever get the chance?

With a fleeting smile that sparkled like the stars in the evening sky, Lisa stepped back. “Let’s go wow them,” she said, attempting to restore the lightness that had dissipated moments ago, but her voice faltered as she missed the closeness.

Carla bit her lip, disappointment rushing in. There’s something real here, and I can’t just let it slip away. “Yeah,” she echoed softly, knowing whatever was growing between them couldn't stay hidden much longer. They had a vibrant night ahead, and the time to confront their feelings was drawing nearer.

As they both readied themselves, the soft blush on Carla's cheeks matched the radiant hues of the sunset outside—an unspoken realm of colour in a world waiting for them to embrace their true feelings. Tonight was just a spark of what could be—if they could find the courage to truly open their hearts.

———————-

As Carla and Lisa stepped into the restaurant, they were immediately enveloped in a warm, inviting atmosphere. The soft glow of fairy lights strung delicately across the ceiling created a magical ambiance, while heart-shaped decorations fluttered gently in the evening breeze. A local band serenaded the crowd, a man’s rich, melodic voice weaving through the air as he sang in Spanish, adding a layer of romance to the vibrant space.

Carla instinctively placed her hand on the small of Lisa’s back, guiding her gently towards their table. The contact sent a thrilling shiver up Lisa’s spine, a spark that ignited unexpressed emotions simmering beneath the surface.

They settled into a snug corner table, the scent of authentic Spanish cuisine wafting around them, mingling with the sound of laughter from other couples. Anxiety settled around them, palpable and charged, as they both found themselves stealing nervous glances at each other. The atmosphere was thick with unvoiced feelings, lying heavy between them, waiting for the right moment—or perhaps the courage—to break free.

After a moment, they ordered drinks, and as they waited for their wine, the brief silence became a tangible entity, one that expanded with each second that ticked by. It felt like an electric current, crackling with anticipation.

“Lisa, I need to tell you somet—”

Before Carla could finish, the singer’s voice rang out, “Hola! Hello! I hope all you couples are having a good evening!” His exuberant transition to English sliced through the intimacy of the moment like a knife, pulling their focus away.

Oh great, Carla thought, exasperation knotting in her stomach. It seemed that every time she mustered the courage to speak, fate had a way of intervening. She glanced at Lisa, whose eyes widened with concern, both of them silently cursing the sudden intrusion.

The singer, now a whirlwind of energy, began moving around the room, engaging with various couples. His voice carried effortlessly above the chatter, vibrant and full of life as he asked them playful questions about how they maintained the spark in their relationships. Laughter erupted around the restaurant, creating a joyful chorus of shared stories and affectionate banter.

Lisa, feeling the pressure of the moment, hastily grabbed her drink, taking a long, anxious sip as if trying to drown the growing tension. She hoped he wouldn’t stop at their table, allowing them the rare opportunity for genuine conversation, a brief respite from the chaos around them.

“Okay, hello you two!” The singer miraculously found his way to their table, his charisma drawing all eyes as if he were a magician revealing a trick. “How long have you been together?” he inquired, his tone a playful mix of curiosity and mischief, as if teasing them into a confession.

“Six months!” Carla declared, her voice quick and almost desperate, as if she hoped that brevity would lead to their escape. Lisa could sense that Carla's eagerness was a bid to shoo this man away, wanting to reclaim their moment together.

“Oh, six months! So you’re still in the honeymoon phase then?” The singer beamed, clearly delighted by the idea of love in the air.

“Yes, we love each other very much and we’re very happy,” Carla replied, her bluntness cutting through the light-heartedness with a sharp edge. Lisa couldn’t help but snicker at the intensity behind her words and her annoyance bubbling under the surface.

Unfortunately, Carla’s attempts to dismiss their energetic interrupter backfired spectacularly.

“And what’s your name?” he asked, pivoting his attention directly to Lisa, who felt heat creeping up her cheeks.

“Um… Lisa,” she managed, a hint of shyness coloring her voice.

“Lisa, I think your girlfriend is trying to get rid of me,” he said with a wink, relishing the playful tension in the air. “What do you think?”

Caught off guard by the sudden spotlight, a bemused smile spread across Lisa’s face, and she decided to roll with it. “Yeah, she’s definitely trying,” she said, her laughter mingling with the rest of the diners, yet inwardly she thought that their escape was nowhere in sight.

“Alright, Lisa, I think this calls for a punishment,” the singer announced with mock seriousness, turning back to Carla, who now looked a mixture of furious and amused. Lisa could see the corner of her mouth twitching upward—she was enjoying this more than she’d let on. “I think it would only be fair if your girlfriend lists off five reasons why she loves you.”

“Bloody hell, five?!” Carla exclaimed, rolling her eyes dramatically. “She wouldn’t even be able to give me one!” She pointed at Lisa with a cheeky smirk, clearly leaning into the banter as the tension slowly transformed into light-heartedness.

“Okay, this sounds like a challenge for both of you then,” the singer declared, seemingly over the moon with the unfolding drama. “I want you both to tell each other five reasons why you fell in love.”

The laughter of the other couples rippled around the restaurant, a chorus of encouragement as the spotlight shifted fully onto the two women, creating an electric atmosphere filled with anticipation.

Lisa felt the weight of the moment crashing down around her, a stirring sensation that entwined anxiety and something deeper within her core. She cast a glance at Carla, whose arms were crossed in a pose of playful defiance, a smirk dancing on her lips, alluringly challenging. “Fine, I’ll go first,” Lisa said, her voice steady, though her heart raced wildly, almost as if it were trying to leap right out of her chest. This was it—the moment she could finally expose her feelings for Carla, knowing that if the spark wasn’t mutual, she could mask the tremor of vulnerability under a guise of theatricality for the audience.

The air thickened as she locked eyes with Carla, trying to convey a flood of emotions that words alone couldn’t encapsulate, a magnetic pull drawing them closer despite the crowd fading into white noise around them. The tension shimmered like electricity, crackling between them as Lisa ventured into uncharted territory. “Carla… I fell in love with you because you are the kindest woman I have ever met.” As each word escaped her lips, she felt an intoxicating mix of fear and exhilaration that cradled the delicate nature of their connection.

“You make me laugh more than anyone else does,” Lisa continued, searching Carla's gaze for a hint of reciprocation, a flicker of longing that mirrored her own. The intensity of Carla's eyes softened slightly, and Lisa could feel a warmth blossoming inside her—this was more than just a performance; this was their truth laid bare amidst the spectacle.

“You allow me to fully be myself,” Lisa stated, her voice low and intense as the world around them faded even further, leaving only the two of them suspended in an intimate bubble. “You treat my daughter like she is your own, and you’ve pulled me from darkness, made me realise I can be happy again.” Each revelation dripped with sincerity, their shared history woven seamlessly into the fabric of her confession.

As Lisa finished, the room erupted into applause, but it felt distant, muffled by the overwhelming connection she shared with Carla. The singer grinned like a proud parent, delighting in the unfolding spectacle. Yet, Carla stood captivated, her expression a mix of awe and disbelief, a lone tear trailing down her cheek, sparkling in the soft light. Lisa knew that for just a heartbeat, they had stepped beyond the boundaries set by the world around them, lost in the raw emotion that surged between them, an invitation to explore something even deeper.

“Wow,” the man said, a chuckle escaping his lips. “That’s going to be hard to beat.” He turned to Carla, his tone shifting to a more serious note. “Okay Carla, it’s your turn. Why did you fall in love with Lisa?”

Yet, Carla barely registered his words. She was entranced, her gaze locked onto Lisa’s eyes, where she could see a reflection of her own feelings mirrored back. The world around them began to fade, the noise of the crowd dwindling to a whisper as her heart raced against the pulse in her throat. It was now or never; she had to seize this moment, to finally lay bare her emotions.

“Lisa,” Carla began, her voice trembling with the weight of her confession, “I fell in love with you because you’ve faced challenges that would break many, yet you stand unwavering, stronger with each passing day.” Each word felt like a piece of her heart laid bare, raw and unguarded.

“You are an incredible mum to Betsy,” she continued, her eyes glistening as she fought back the surge of tears threatening to spill over. “Even when you doubt yourself, I see the love you pour into her, and I admire you for it.” Carla quickly brushed a tear away, unwilling to falter as she dove deeper into her truth.

“You make me feel safe, cherished,” Carla’s voice softened, drawing Lisa even nearer. “You do these small, beautiful things that light up my day, like showing up with cake in my office,” she said with a tender smile, prompting a gentle giggle from Lisa, warm and infectious, her own tears now cascading down her cheeks in a joyful surrender.

“And every day, you reveal how beautiful your soul truly is,” Carla concluded, her heart racing with vulnerability, brimming with emotions that danced between them, electric and palpable. This was a declaration, a promise, an invitation to step into the uncharted territory of their hearts together. The tension hung thick in the air as they basked in the intensity of their connection, waiting for the world to embrace their truth.

The man, sensing the moment's intensity, clapped his hands together and smiled broadly. “Let’s give these two incredible women a round of applause!” he called out to the gathered crowd, his voice echoing through the restaurant. As applause erupted around them, he nodded appreciatively and turned away, moving off towards other couples, effortlessly joining their conversations, leaving Carla and Lisa enveloped in their own bubble.

With the noise of the applause fading into the background, Carla and Lisa remained transfixed, their eyes locked onto each other, as if the rest of the world had slipped away. For the first time, they had both shared their truths—words that had been waiting just below the surface, yearning to break free. The moment was electric, charged with a newfound freedom that filled the air between them.

Carla, her heart pounding with hope and courage, reached across the table, her fingertips brushing against the smooth surface before finally clasping Lisa's hand. She gently stroked Lisa's knuckles with her thumb, a simple gesture that spoke volumes. “You know… I meant every word,” she confided, her voice barely rising above the restaurant's chatter, but laden with sincerity.

Lisa felt a rush of emotions cascade through her, heart racing as she leaned in closer. She wore a look of disbelief mixed with pure joy, the kind that almost made her want to cry or scream, or perhaps run out of the restaurant, hand in hand with Carla, embracing all the possibilities ahead. It was a warmth that enveloped her, igniting something deep within. Carla felt the same, a shared connection that pulsed between them.

“I meant it too,” Lisa finally responded, her voice barely a whisper but filled with undeniable resolve. The weight of those words hung in the air, binding them closer. It was a promise, an acknowledgement of everything they felt that had been waiting to be spoken.

Time seemed to suspend, the bustling atmosphere of the restaurant blurring around them. In that moment, it was just Carla and Lisa, the world beyond their table fading into insignificance, every heartbeat echoing their shared vulnerability. They smiled at each other, a silent conversation passing between them—one of hope, desire, and the thrilling anticipation of what lay ahead.