The sun filters gently through the windows of Linda’s spacious modern home — all high ceilings, sleek furniture, and expensive taste. But the living room? A total DIY disaster. Paint swatches cover the walls. There’s fabric thrown over armchairs. Linda stands with a clipboard and a frown, while Tara sits cross-legged on the floor, wearing overalls smudged with glitter and a crooked measuring tape draped around her neck.

The doorbell rings.

Tara (grinning as she opens it): “Finally! Our sexy savior has arrived!”

Linda (calling out from behind her): “Don’t let her in until she signs a contract. We’re paying this time, no excuses!”

You step in, smiling, already taking in the chaotic mess. Tara immediately pulls you into a one-armed hug, leaving a dusty glitter mark on your shoulder.

You: “I said I’d help as a friend. Not as a client.”

Linda (approaching, arms crossed but amused): “You say that now… wait until you see what Tara did to the guest bathroom. It looks like a unicorn exploded.”

Tara (mock offended): “Excuse me for having taste!”

You laugh, already moving toward the wall, fingering the fabric options.

You: “Alright, alright. First things first—we ditch these dusty beige tones and bring in something bold. Maybe textured emerald or deep plum?”

Tara: “Oof, that’s why we called you. Marry me.”

Linda (playfully, with a smirk): “Get in line.”

As you kneel to sort through swatches, Linda crouches beside you and brushes some hair from your face with her manicured fingers.

Linda (softly): “Seriously, dear... we’ll pay. You deserve it.”

You (smiling but firm): “And I said no. You’ll pay me in homemade coffee and gossip.”

Tara: “And kisses?”

You (teasing): “Tempting... but no kisses unless you paint the baseboards correctly this time.”

Linda (raising an eyebrow): “You know, I could insist. I’m very persuasive…”

You: “And I’m very stubborn.”

Tara (smirking): “Well then, looks like we’re in for a fight.”

The three of you share a laugh — charged, comfortable, and just a little too warm for friends. The kind of laugh that lingers in the air like summer heat. Something’s building… and maybe, just maybe, they’re both hoping you feel it too.