I'll Ray knocked, and a girl with striking blue hair and a sequined top opened the door. "Hey, Ray! You made it!" she exclaimed, pulling him into a quick hug before her gaze shifted to Maya and Lena. "And who are these lovely ladies?"
"Two girls looking to make their mark," Ray replied smoothly, gesturing toward them. "Just arrived in town."
"Welcome!" the girl said, stepping aside to let them in. "I'm Kira. Come on in, it's wild in here!"
As they entered, Maya felt a flutter of nerves but was comforted by Lena's excitement. The living room was packed with people—laughter mixing with the music blasting from a stereo in the corner. People lounged on couches, some playing cards, others dancing, and a few gathered around a makeshift bar set up in the kitchen. A haze of smoke hung in the air, illuminated by strobing lights that flickered across the room.
Maya and Lena had dressed for the occasion, each wearing brightly colored dresses that flowed as they moved. Maya wore a red off-the-shoulder number that hugged her curves, while Lena twirled in a short, floral-printed dress that accentuated her carefree spirit. They looked like they belonged at a party in a John Hughes film, and for a moment, Maya allowed herself to feel a thrill of belonging.
Ray guided them to a quieter corner, leaning in closer. "Now remember, girls, it's all about making connections tonight. Be friendly, but keep your guard up," he advised, though his tone felt more like encouragement now. Maya felt a swell of trust in him. Maybe he was looking out for them after all.
As the evening wore on, Ray mingled, laughing and flirting with various guests, while Lena eagerly joined conversations with strangers, her laughter ringing out like music. Maya stayed close to her friend, occasionally glancing around, but she couldn't shake the feeling of excitement that was building inside her. Maybe they really had found a place in this city.
After a while, Kira approached them again, a drink in hand. "You girls should try this!" she said, offering them a brightly colored cocktail that sparkled with bits of fruit. "It's a party tradition!"
Maya hesitated only briefly. Lena's eyes lit up. "Come on, Maya! Just one drink!" she urged, her smile infectious. Maya glanced at Ray, who nodded encouragingly. The tension in her shoulders eased, and she took the drink from Kira.
"Okay, just one!" Maya said, raising her glass with a grin.
As the night progressed, Ray began introducing them to more people—musicians, wannabe actors, and a few who seemed genuinely interested in helping the girls. Maya felt her apprehension fade as they chatted, sharing stories and laughter. This was what she had dreamed of: connection, opportunity, and a chance to start fresh.
Maya found herself chatting with a guy named Vince, who had an easy smile and genuine interest.
They stood by the makeshift bar, the dim lights casting a warm glow over the throng of people dancing and laughing around them.
"So, what brings you two girls to LA?" Vince asked, leaning in slightly. "We're just looking for something new," she replied trying to sound casual. "You know, a fresh start."
Vince nodded, his eyes glinting with understanding. "I get that." This city can be a wild ride. But it's all about who you meet along the way, right?"
Maya felt a flutter of hope at his words. Maybe he could help them navigate this new world. "Yeah, exactly. Have you been here long?"
Vince shrugged, a casual smile on his face. "I was born and raised in Los Angeles. It's in my blood,
you know?"
"That's awesome," Maya said, intrigued. "So, you've grown up in all of this.?"
THE party
Start from the beginning
