Maybe we’ll meet again one day and on that day, maybe you’ll find it in yourself to return these things I hold so dear. I beg of you Jane, love what I have left you, they are my most prized and treasured things, without them, I am nothing.

I do love you, always.
M.

-/-

Over the next week, Maura settled herself into a nice little routine. She explored a lot, finding small, obscure shops, local markets and wine bars. As she sat in her new favourite sandwich shop, she watched the world go by. People of all shapes, sizes and colours strolled down the street. People watching had become Maura’s new favourite way to pass the time. She liked to try and work out what they did for a living, or where they were going.

”Hi again.” That rich velvety voice made Maura jump.

”Oh. Hello.” She greeted the tall woman warmly. ”I’m sorry, I never asked your name.” Maura offered the other chair to the woman she’d met in the store more than a week prior.

”Lucy.” The brunette told her, folding her lithe frame into the seat.

”Maura.” She extended her hand, surprised by the strength that gripped her.

”So, how are you enjoying California?” Lucy asked, sipping the ice water that had appeared almost instantly at the table, along with a menu.

Maura paused to consider the question. ”It’s very vibrant.” She decided, drawing a throaty chuckle from the other woman. ”I’m a little intimidated about some of the bars.” Maura leant in as she spoke, as if sharing a big secret.

Lucy smiled. ”Yeah, I get that.” She was reading the menu even though she knew exactly what she’d order. ”I’ll take you out one night, if you’d like?” she offered casually.

Maura paused briefly, watching the waitress as she took Lucy’s order before disappearing back inside.

”Really?” she asked, kicking herself for hearing the word in Jane’s tone. ”I mean, you’d like to do that?”

Lucy frowned. ”You kiddin’ me?” she scoffed, ”I’d love to take you out.”

Maura smiled warmly and jotted down her new number on the napkin. ”Well you call me, and we’ll work something out.” Maura got to her feet. She’d made plans to have a massage and was already running late.