Page 85 of From Rivals to I Do

“Who’re you all dressed up for, Rose?”

“Our date of course,” she says, and we both cackle loudly.

“It’s not just us in here,” Rose says, throwing her gaze on the driver quickly.

I roll my eyes and keep talking loudly. We both laugh. We get beautifully foolish anytime we’re around each other. And I always look forward to spending time with Rose. Soon, all of that would be thin air. So, we’d better enjoy the best of our time together.

The cab stops. Rose and I step out of the cab, our senses instantly overwhelmed by the vibrant chaos of Times Square. The taxi melts into the sea of yellow cabs, leaving us standing at the heart of New York City’s iconic landmark.

The towering digital billboards illuminate the night, casting a matrix of colors across our faces. I gaze up, my eyes tracing the myriad of advertisements, each one competing for attention. The neon lights and larger-than-life screens create an electric atmosphere that pulses through the very heart of the city.

A wave of nostalgia washes over me as I take in the sights and sounds. This is my last hurrah in the city that never sleeps before my journey to Japan. A sense of bittersweetness tugs at my heart, knowing that I’ll miss this place and the moments I’ve shared here.

“Times Square never gets old, does it?” Rose’s voice breaks through my reverie, her eyes mirroring the wonder and excitement of the place.

I smile, feeling grateful that I get to share this moment with my best friend. “No, it doesn’t. It’s like a world of its own.”

We begin to weave our way through the bustling crowd, pausing occasionally to take pictures of the dazzling displays. I spot the iconic ball that descends every New Year’s Eve, and it’s a stark reminder of the passage of time.

We walk on, hand in hand. Our conversation flows like a river during the rain. Rose, ever the caring friend, brings up topics that I’ve been skirting around for a while.

“So, Amber,” Rose begins, her tone gentle, “how are you feeling about the move? It’s a big step, taking Alex to Japan.”

I let out a breath, thinking about the big changes ahead. “It’s a blend of both excitement and worry. Japan seems amazing, and I’m eager to explore it with Alex. But it’s also a little scary, you know? Beginning a new chapter in a place far from home.”

Rose nods sympathetically, her dark eyes filled with understanding. “You’ve always been so independent, Amber, but this is a whole new level. Just remember, I’m only a phone call away if you ever need anything.”

I squeeze Rose’s arm in gratitude. “I know, and I appreciate it more than you can imagine.”

Our conversation shifts to the topic of my love life, or the lack thereof. It’s a subject that I haven’t dwelled on too often, preferring to focus on my career and caring for Alex. But Rose, as always, doesn’t let it slide.

“You know, Amber,” Rose teases with a playful glint in her eye, “you’ve been single for a while now. Are you sure you’re not letting life pass you by?”

I laugh, my cheeks flushing with a hint of embarrassment. “Rose, my life is more about Alex and work right now. Besides, I’m not even sure where I’d find the time for dating.”

Rose chuckles, clearly unconvinced. “Well, just remember, love can surprise you when you least expect it.”

“Come on. Who’s possessed my friend with a love therapist?” I cry out. We both let out loud laughs, Rose crouching, hands on her knees.

“But for real,” Rose says, recovering from the laughter, “I really need a man for my friend.” She’s looking into my eyes with a joker’s smile. “So, you could bring home some Caucasian sweetness,” she adds, licking her lips. “Yummy.”

“Stop it.” I pat her shoulder. “Speaking of yummy, my tummy’s dancing.”

“Me too.”

We continue our exploration of Times Square, the intoxicating scent of street food wafting through the air, tempting our taste buds. We follow our noses to a colorful taco stand, the savory aroma irresistible.

I order a couple of tacos for myself and Rose. The vendor assembles them with skill, loading them with a medley of ingredients. The first bite is a burst of flavor, a tantalizing blend of spices and textures. Rose and I indulge in our street food feast, savoring each bite as we reminisce about our high school days, the crazy adventures we’ve shared, and the enduring bond of our friendship.

The taco stand transforms into a dance floor as a talented street performer captivates the crowd with his music. Rose and I join in, our laughter ringing out as we dance and twirl in the heart of the open space. For a moment, the world fades away, and it’s just the two of us, lost in the rhythm of the city.

As the night deepens, the neon lights continue to shine brightly, casting a luminous glow on the unforgettable moments Rose and I share. Soon, I would be hanging on a rope of adventure. Whether it will be cut or not, I don’t yet know.

Chapter six

Chapter Six

Isettle into the cab, the leather seats cool against my back as I watch the driver take me through streets in a swivel, and to the airport. The city rushes past in a blur, a cacophony of horns and sirens, a constant reminder that time never stops. New York is as vibrant as ever, but my mind is miles away. I’ve just flown in from Tennessee, and now I’m boarding a flight back to Japan. The constant motion of my life leaves little time for reflection.

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