Free No Such Thing As True Love by A.M. Anderson Page B

There was obviously a dazzle in her eyes as she spoke. Maritess was relieved to feel only happiness for her friend. Even when Cassandra asked her again if it was okay to date Markus, Maritess assured her that it was. Soon, they were both ready to head out for the day. While Cassandra had stored a few things in Seattle, most everything else was going into her new apartment. She had most of what she needed, but the apartment was bleak. She and Maritess made their way to all the hardware stores looking for paint and things to decorate with.
                When they got to Cassandra’s new apartment, the movers were only a few minutes away. Cassandra had them move everything to the center of the living room and bedroom, making it easy for her and Maritess to paint. It only took them a few hours to cover the two rooms of the apartment, and soon the fans were on and the walls were drying. Maritess and Cassandra got changed in the chaos of boxes and furniture, and were soon on their way out for dinner. Markus was meeting them after he left his office. Their plan was to return to Cassandra’s apartment to help her start unpacking once they were finished with their meal.
                Markus showed up right on time. He was in a great mood. He had finally started to really feel the benefits of training with Maritess. Markus had more stamina, and didn’t feel so tired by the end of the day. Apparently, it had even affected his work performance. His boss had put him in the lead for their next big case. While it meant that he had some extra work to do, it was a big step for him in the firm. Cassandra and Maritess each congratulated him. Combined, the three of them had every reason in the world to celebrate.
                Drinks, funny stories and incredible food passed among them. It seemed too soon when dinner was over and the server was bringing them the check. Each of their hands flew out to grab it first, but Markus was quickest on the draw. The two women thanked him graciously, and together they returned to Cassandra’s apartment. After a few minutes of getting oriented, everyone was at work. Markus needed no assistance with her furniture. Most of it were simple wood frames with elaborate cushions. Her bed was full-sized, but the frame and headboard were only a few pieces. Maritess unpacked the kitchen, and Cassandra started emptying boxes into drawers and on to shelves.
                They called jokes to one another. Maritess marveled at how Cassandra had grown up. She was sure that Cassandra felt the same about her. In the few short years since they’d seen each other last, they had both changed immensely. As she unpacked boxes of pots, pans and cutlery, she noticed that Cassandra had almost a complete kitchen set. She wondered if the woman had ever learned to actually cook for herself. She was about to make a comment about it when she heard Cassandra laughing in the bedroom with Markus. It sounded only playful, and soon they emerged and walked into the kitchen. Maritess gave her a hard time about cooking, and Markus joined in. Then Cassandra turned the tables and challenged Maritess’ culinary skills. Well, while she may not be a master chef, Maritess was very sure of her mixing abilities.
                After a quick run to the store, she returned with a couple bottles of booze and juice, a bag of ice and some lime. The apartment was mostly put away, except for Cassandra’s enormous wardrobe. Still, the kitchen was functional and so was the living room. Together, they decided that a good day’s work had been done by all, and drinks made for a great course of action. Maritess had an awesome time playing bartender, and for once, didn’t feel guilty about all the empty calories. Markus and Cassandra held their liquor well, and the three of them rolled in rounds of laughter, intrigue and discovery.
                It was late when Maritess finished her last drink. She