Chapter 15
After a few enchanting weeks, where gentle kisses turned into passionate flames neither of them could ignore, Lisa summoned her courage and asked Carla out on a date. It felt like a leap into the unknown, yet both women understood the necessity of this moment—a chance to celebrate the intimate bond that had begun to bloom between them. As they navigated their intertwining emotions, the air around them crackled with an intoxicating intensity. With every passionate kiss and exploring touch, the desire to surrender to their feelings grew stronger, making it all the more challenging to resist the magnetic pull urging them to embrace one another completely.
Carla, of course, had eagerly agreed to the date, her heart fluttering with a mixture of excitement and anticipation. The thought of this next step felt like a beautiful promise, igniting a spark that warmed her from within.
Lisa took the lead in planning their special evening, her enthusiasm shining through with every detail she crafted. She had consciously pushed aside her thoughts about her current investigation and its links to Carla, fully dedicating herself to making Carla feel special. She wanted to spoil her, to remind her of the joy that could still be found after a challenging few months. Lisa envisioned a romantic setting, filled with soft, flickering candles and the sweet scent of blooming flowers.
She poured her heart into arranging a dinner at the quaint little restaurant in town they had both mentioned wanting to try, ensuring it would be a night filled with laughter and connection. As she imagined the two of them sharing a table, the ambiance alive with the soft strains of music, Lisa felt a rush of emotion at the thought of seeing Carla smile, her eyes sparkling like stars.
Each element of the evening was crafted with care—delicious food, their favorite wine, and perhaps a stroll under the moonlight afterward. Lisa's heart swelled with affection as she thought of how this date would not only be a celebration of what they had found in each other but also a chance for both of them to reclaim a piece of their joy. It was a heartfelt gesture, a way to show Carla just how much she cherished her and how deeply she believed in their blossoming love.
Lisa had texted Carla that morning, her excitement bubbling over as she told her she would pick her up at 7. This gave both of them the entire day to unwind and prepare for what felt like a monumental evening. As the hours ticked by, Lisa found herself lost in a whirlwind of emotions, spending what felt like an eternity trying on various outfits. Yet, each time she looked in the mirror, all she saw were her work attire and comfy hoodies, remnants of the routine she had buried herself in since Becky’s passing.
The reality of loss had kept her anchored to her job, leaving little room for the vibrant, social life she once knew. Many of the clothes she had once saved for special occasions were either discarded or no longer fit her frame, leaving her feeling stuck in a cycle of drab choices. Just as she was about to concede to another round of casual wear, something caught her eye in the back of her wardrobe—a royal blue velvet blazer she had almost forgotten about. It felt like a glimpse into the past, a spark of joy from five years ago when she had treated herself on a whim.
With newfound hope, Lisa pulled off the tags and slipped into the blazer. To her delight, it fit perfectly, hugging her frame in all the right places and reminding her of an elegance she had thought she lost. The rich color brought out the warmth in her skin, and for the first time in a long while, Lisa felt beautiful. Satisfied with her outfit, she took her time on her hair and makeup, turning each step into a small celebration of self-love and anticipation.
With everything in place, she gathered her things and set off for Carla’s flat, excitement mixing with nervous energy as she drove. On the passenger seat rested a bouquet of white roses blended with delicate blooms from Preston's Petals, their sweet scent filling the car and adding to her fluttering heart.
As she arrived at Carla’s, a swell of nerves trickled in. It wasn’t that she feared the date would go poorly—on the contrary, she felt a magnetic pull towards Carla that suggested their night would be unforgettable. Yet, deep down, she understood that this moment felt significant. The feelings she harbored for Carla had grown profoundly, and stepping into a deeper connection would shift the very essence of their relationship.
Taking a deep breath, she approached the door after Carla had buzzed her into the building, her heart racing with both excitement and trepidation. As she knocked, a whirlwind of possibilities danced in her mind, each one more beautiful than the last, all culminating in this magical evening.
Hearing the knock at the door, Carla hurried to let Lisa in, her heart racing with anticipation. As the door swung open, she was momentarily taken aback, her eyes sweeping over Lisa from head to toe, drinking in the sight of her radiant figure in the royal blue velvet blazer. The words she had rehearsed flitted away, caught in her throat as her gaze lingered. All she could do was stand there in awe, rendered speechless.
“Hi… um, are you okay?” Lisa asked nervously, sensing the weight of Carla's stare. A knot formed in her stomach as doubt crept in. Had she chosen the wrong outfit? Was there something wrong with her appearance? Panic began to swell within her, and for a moment, she wondered if she had made a dreadful mistake.
Noticing the flicker of worry cross Lisa's face, Carla finally found her voice, the words flowing out with a sincerity that touched Lisa’s heart. “Wow, Lisa, you look absolutely beautiful.”
Lisa’s pulse quickened at the compliment, but her admiration for Carla rose even stronger. As her gaze shifted to take in Carla’s look, she was momentarily dazzled by the sight before her. The black, figure-hugging dress accentuated Carla’s curves perfectly, the fabric shimmering subtly as she moved, making her look both enchanting and elegant. The way the dress clung to her frame was breathtaking, showcasing her confidence and accentuating the magnetic energy that radiated from her.
They stood for a moment, both wrapped in an unspoken appreciation of each other’s beauty. Lisa felt her initial nerves fade as she noticed the way Carla's eyes sparkled with admiration. “You look stunning, Carla,” she replied, her voice filled with warmth. “I didn’t expect to see you looking so incredible. Not that you don’t always.”
Carla smiled, a blush creeping across her cheeks. “I think I’m still in shock at how amazing you look. I was honestly hoping my dress could compete with your outfit—and I think you’ve outdone me!”
With the tension breaking, they both laughed, easing into the familiarity that had always been a cornerstone of their friendship.
Getting into the car, Lisa suddenly remembered the bouquet of flowers that still sat on the passenger seat. In her excitement, she had completely forgotten to take them to the door when she picked Carla up. Panic surged through her as she quickly reached for the bouquet, the soft petals brushing her fingers as she plucked it up just before Carla slid into the passenger seat.
“Um, these are for you,” Lisa stammered, her nerves bubbling back to the surface. She handed the flowers to Carla, her heart racing as she did. “Sorry I forgot to bring them up with me, but I’m sure they’ll be okay in the car for a bit. I wasn’t sure what flowers you liked, but I thought these were beautiful.” She took a breath before continuing, her words tumbling out like a river. “Apparently they symbolise new beginnings—Mary was telling me when I picked them up at—”
Before she could finish, Carla leaned over and pressed a soft kiss against Lisa’s lips, cutting off her rambling. It was sweet and warm, filled with a promise that left Lisa momentarily breathless. When Carla pulled back, a radiant smile lit up her face. “They’re beautiful, thank you. You know, you’re adorable when you start rambling away,” she teased playfully, her eyes sparkling.
Lisa’s cheeks flushed a deep crimson, and she let out an embarrassed laugh, fumbling for words to mask her sudden shyness. “I-I didn’t mean to—”
But the embarrassment quickly faded when her gaze met Carla's. Carla was still smiling at her with such admiration that it seemed to wash away all her self-consciousness. In that moment, the world outside the car faded into the background, the glow of the streetlights casting a warm ambiance inside the vehicle. The flowers, once symbolic of her clumsy attempt at a romantic gesture, now became a tangible representation of their blossoming connection.
“Seriously, these are stunning,” Carla said, carefully arranging the flowers in her lap and inhaling their fragrant scent. “You always know how to brighten my day.”
Feeling bold, Lisa glanced sideways at Carla, her heart fluttering. “I just thought… you deserve beautiful things.” The sincerity in her voice lingered between them, an unspoken acknowledgment of their unique bond.
“Well… i’ve already got you, but these are a lovely addition,” Carla said while still looking at the flowers, hoping that the flush now creeping into her cheeks would go unnoticed.
As Lisa started the car, the engine humming to life, there was a brief silence, punctuated only by the soft music spilling from the speakers. Lisa allowed herself to glance at the bouquet again, feeling proud of her choice. “Do you want to tell me about your outfit while I drive?” she asked, breaking the silence with an eager smile.
Carla chuckled, her eyes gleaming. “Well, I almost didn’t wear it. I figured why not go all out for tonight?” She turned to face Lisa, her excitement contagious. “Plus, I wanted to match how stunning you look—like you stepped right off a fashion runway!”
Lisa grinned, her heart racing as they began to drive through the Manchester streets twinkling with lights. Each moment felt as if it were layered with potential, and she could hardly contain her excitement. The night was still young, and they were ready to embrace whatever adventures lay ahead.
As they pulled up to the restaurant, Lisa parked and took a moment to look at Carla. “Ready for this?” she asked, gripping the steering wheel as if it could ground her in anticipation.
“Absolutely,” Carla replied, her smile brightening the dim interior of the car. Lisa took a deep breath and nodded, letting the anticipation wash over her. Together, they stepped out into the night, a new chapter unfurling between them, one filled with promise.
As they approached the quaint little restaurant, its warm, flickering lights beckoned them closer. The soft clinking of dishes and the gentle hum of laughter spilled through the door, wrapping around them like a cozy embrace. Lisa's hand rested on the small of Carla’s back, a guiding touch that ignited a flutter of excitement in Carla’s chest. It felt intimate, purposeful, as if Lisa was silently assuring her that everything was going to be wonderful.
“Wow, this is the place we both wanted to try… you remembered!” Carla exclaimed, her face lighting up with a huge grin, eyes sparkling with delight. The charm of the restaurant felt like a shared secret, a little hidden gem they had both wished to discover together.
Lisa turned to her, throwing a playful smirk, her eyes dancing with mischief. “See, I’m not just a pretty face,” she teased, a wink punctuating her words. The moment was electric, and for a heartbeat, Carla forgot about everything else—all her worries and uncertainties vanished in the magic of Lisa’s charm.
Yet, as they wandered deeper into the cozy ambiance, Carla couldn’t shake the slight unease that danced in Lisa’s posture. A subtle tension nestled beneath the surface: her shoulders were slightly hunched, her smile twitching as if it were a mask she struggled to keep in place. For a fleeting second, Carla considered asking if everything was alright, but she pushed that thought aside. Tonight was supposed to be special, only for them, and they had drinks to order first.
They settled into a corner table, the kind draped in soft candlelight that made everything feel warm and intimate. The server approached, and they began to peruse the drink menu. With each sip of their chosen beverages, Carla’s spirits soared a little higher, and she encouraged Lisa to share in the laughter and lightheartedness of the night. They clinked their glasses, still relishing the thrill of shared anticipation, but beneath it all, Carla’s heart ached a little for the weight she sensed on Lisa’s shoulders.
“You okay?” Carla asked softly, her gaze locked on Lisa’s face, searching for clues.
“Yeah, I’m okay because you’re here,” Lisa replied, a hint of warmth in her voice, but it did little to mask the shadows behind her eyes.
As they shared a few moments of comfortable silence, flipping through menus, Carla couldn’t help but notice the turmoil swirling within Lisa. It sent a wave of anxiety through her. Was Lisa regretting the date? A knot tightened in Carla’s stomach at the thought. She didn’t believe that was the case—not after the effort Lisa had put into this. Still, something was clearly troubling her.
“Lisa… are you really alright? Tell me to mind my own business, but I can’t help but worry about you. You don’t seem like yourself.” Carla’s voice was tinged with concern, her heart aching to ease whatever burden Lisa carried.
Lisa exhaled deeply, the weight of her investigation pressing down on her like a heavy cloud. She had tried to push those thoughts aside for one night, but they lingered, refusing to loosen their grip. “I’m sorry, Carla. I wanted tonight to be perfect, and instead, I feel like I’m ruining it.”
“Hey… you’re not ruining anything. Just talk to me.” Carla reached out, her fingers entwining with Lisa’s, offering comfort and solidarity.
“That’s the thing—I can’t talk about it. It’s just work, and this case… it’s like a puzzle I can’t solve, and it’s eating away at me. I’m so sorry I can’t share more. But please, let’s focus on us tonight. I really want to forget about everything else.” Lisa attempted to smile, but it fell flat, her eyes revealing the turmoil she fought to conceal.
Carla’s heart dropped—not because Lisa wouldn’t share her troubles; she understood the pressures of Lisa's job and the limitations of discussing an ongoing investigation. But it was the realisation that Lisa felt so alone in carrying the weight of her burdens. A wave of empathy washed over her, and she squeezed Lisa’s hand tighter, desperate to remind her that she didn’t have to face it all by herself.
The conversation drifted back to lighter topics after a brief silence, the clinking of glasses and laughter around them lifting the heaviness that had settled at their table. Carla leaned in, the candlelight flickering between them, casting playful shadows on their faces. She wanted to know more about Lisa, to peel back the layers and discover the parts that remained hidden.
“Okay, Lisa,” Carla said, her voice playful yet sincere. “Tell me something I don’t know about you. Something surprising!”
Lisa chuckled softly, her smile slowly returning. “Oh, this could get embarrassing…” she said, eyes dancing as she nodded, warming up to the idea. “Alright, here goes. When I was younger, before I joined the police force, I was friends with a girl who—let’s just say—was a bit rough around the edges.”
Carla leaned in closer, her curiosity piqued. “What did she do? Were you part of a gang?”
“We went into town one day after school, and Emily, that was her name, convinced me to steal some sweets from the shop,” Lisa recalled, her voice growing softer as the memory played out. “I was terrified, but there was this thrill, you know? It felt like being part of something wild.”
“Oh my god!” Carla gasped dramatically, placing a hand over her heart. “A thief in the ranks! Tut tut, officer! I can’t believe we have a former confectionery criminal at this table! What’s next? Armed robbery of the pudding aisle?”
“Did you—like—have a getaway plan?” Carla leaned in, eyes wide with mock seriousness, playing into the narrative. “Was there a secret password?”
Lisa laughed, albeit nervously. “I did! But here’s the kicker—I was so wracked with guilt afterward. I didn’t even make it home before I broke down and burst into tears. I felt horrible. I was relieved I hadn’t gotten caught, but I couldn’t shake that shame. I went home, locked myself in my room, and cried it out like a dramatic little girl.”
Carla let out an exaggerated, playful sigh. “Force of habit, huh? I don’t blame you. You just can’t escape that guilt gene. Although, I can’t picture you doing that!” Carla laughed, her heart swelling at the thought of Lisa as an innocent child caught in a moment of rebellion. “You’re too good for that! You’re a hero now!”
Lisa shrugged, a shy smile peeking through her facade. “Everyone has a past, Carla..."
“Sure, but some pasts are just more… sugary than others!” Carla teased, her laughter ringing out like music in the dimly lit room. “You may have served hard time in the ‘sweet cell’, but look at you now—an upstanding Detective Sergeant with a strongly upheld moral code! Just don’t let the sweets go to your head. We can’t afford for you to go rogue!”
Lisa couldn’t help but join in the laughter, the warmth of camaraderie enveloping them, as the shadows flickered playfully around them.
“Go on then... what about you? I’m sure there’s lots of things I don’t know about you.”
Carla paused, a playful glimmer in her eyes. “Well, I could write you a book about all the things that have happened to me but I’ll play the game.” She said with a wink. “Jodie!” She suddenly exclaimed, her voice rising as if a memory had just hit her.
“Who?” Lisa asked, looking puzzled.
“Jodie from school. I used to follow her around like a bad smell. Honestly, she treated me like dirt. Dunno, it was pathetic really. I’m surprised that and snogging girls to titillate the lad I fancied wasn’t enough to tell me I was into women until now,” she said with another wink.
“Oh, you dark horse,” Lisa remarked.
“Reformed dark horse actually,” Carla replied, correcting her. “Now I’m just an open book and an angel.”
Lisa raised an eyebrow, intrigued and amused. “An angel, huh? Just one little confession about your school crush, and now you’re a saint?”
“Absolutely!” Carla replied, putting on an exaggeratedly innocent expression, folding her hands together as if in prayer. “You should see my glow. I’m practically radiating purity!”
“Radiating something, that’s for sure!” Lisa laughed, shaking her head. “So, tell me more about this Jodie then. What was she like?”
Carla leaned closer, her eyes sparkling with mischief as she remembered. “Ugh, Jodie… she was the queen bee of our year, with the tightest jeans and the most ridiculous attitude. I was absolutely besotted. I just wanted her to notice me, you know? But she barely acknowledged my existence unless it was to put me down or laugh with her friends.”
“Did you ever tell her how you felt?” Lisa asked, curiosity bubbling up within her.
“Ha! Not a chance!” Carla scoffed, waving her hand as if the thought were absurd. “I had a reputation to uphold, after all.” She leaned back, glancing at the ceiling, a mockingly dramatic sigh escaping her lips. “Oh, the melodrama of it all.”
“Did you ever… like, have a moment together? A ‘romantic exchange’ perhaps?” Lisa pressed, her eyes twinkling with interest.
“Actually, yes!” Carla’s expression brightened. “There was a party, and I thought I was being all suave, so I made my move. Just me, her, a few too many drinks, and a moment of courage.”
“Then what happened?” Lisa leaned forward, her laughter swallowed by anticipation.
“She totally ignored me, of course!” Carla burst out, her laughter filling the space between them. “Told me to get lost while she snogged some other random guy right in front of me! Talk about crushing a poor young girl's dreams!”
Lisa shook her head in disbelief, her smile growing wider. “What a waste of a perfect moment.”
“Right? And looking back now, I think she might’ve suspected I had a crush," Carla confessed, her cheeks turning a rosy pink, a mix of embarrassment and nostalgia flooding her features. “But I was just too deep into the ‘boy-crazy’ phase to admit it—maybe I was trying to convince myself and everyone else that it was just a phase.”
“A classic case of denial, I see,” Lisa teased, leaning in, her laughter warming the moment. “And now? Are you all about the girls?”
“Only one girl,” Carla declared with a playful wink, her eyes sparkling with a hint of mischief.
Lisa felt warmth spreading across her cheeks, an unexpected flush as she replied, “You’re brave, Carla,” a note of admiration threading through her voice. “It takes real guts to own your truth, especially after all those years.”
“Hey!” Carla swatted at Lisa’s arm playfully, but there was a sparkle in her eyes. “Are you calling me old?”
Lisa chuckled, holding her hands up in mock surrender. “Not old, just experienced! There’s a difference, right?” She grinned, her heart fluttering at the easy banter, a spark of chemistry igniting the atmosphere.
Carla couldn’t help but laugh, shaking her head. “Sure, I’ll take ‘experienced’ any day. It sounds much better than ‘ancient!’”
The two shared a moment of laughter, the warmth between them palpable as they finished their meal. Carla took a sip of her drink, glancing around the cozy restaurant thinking about how lucky she was to be here… with Lisa.
As they finished the last bites of their dinner, Lisa noticed the waiter approaching with the bill. She waved him over, a sense of determination in her voice. “My treat tonight.”
“Oh no you don’t!” Carla protested playfully, reaching for her purse, her cheeks flushing.
Lisa shook her head, a smirk on her lips. “Next time, we’ll split it. I’m looking forward to another date!”
“Wow, so you’re already planning for the next one?” Carla teased, raising an eyebrow.
Lisa smiled, feeling bold. “Only if you promise to let me pay for this one.”
“Fine! It’s a deal, then!” Carla replied, laughter spilling from her lips as they stood up to leave.
As they stepped into the cool evening air, Lisa let out a content sigh, feeling lighter and filled with excitement. “Let’s walk for a bit,” she suggested. “I don’t want the night to end just yet.”
“Absolutely,” Carla agreed, falling into step beside her. “It feels good to be out here, doesn’t it?”
Lisa nodded, looking up at the stars beginning to twinkle in the darkening sky. “It really does.”
They continued walking, chatting about everything and nothing, the laughter and lightness weaving a delightful new chapter in their budding romance. As they strolled under the stars, both felt the promise of something beautiful just beginning to unfold.