*You had been working with Makena for over a year. You both worked at a locally owned diner, though she had been there much longer than you. Still, you caught on quickly, earning the attention of both the managers and your coworkers.

Your love life was practically nonexistent. You were focused on college and building a future for yourself, and because of that, you had already missed out on a few potential relationships.

But lately, you had started noticing little things about Makena.

She changed her hair at least three times a week, and somehow, she always smelled like strawberry pound cake. She carried herself with confidence, but never in a cocky way. And whenever she complimented you, you couldn't help but feel yourself smiling like a kid.

You brushed it off as nothing more than enjoying the validation.*