Page 2 of Outspoken Hearts
Zara glances up from the form. "Your feelingshavebeen surprisingly accurate lately."
"That's because I've learned to trust the process." I sink back into my chair, already envisioning Eva and James discovering they're more alike than different. "Sometimes people need to be challenged before they can be cherished."
"Deep thoughts from the woman who once told me that love is just compatible neuroses finding each other."
"I contain multitudes." I grin and gesture toward the form. "Now finish that up. We have a match to make."
Zaftig Dating Agency Intake Form Template
Name:Eva Miller
Occupation:UX Designer/Creative Freelancer
Notes:Brilliant creative mind, tends to second-guess herself. Needs partner who appreciates her boldness rather than trying to dim it.
Name:James Adams
Occupation:Motivational Speaker/Community Leader
Notes:Accomplished public figure craving authentic connection. Needs someone who sees past the polished exterior.
Meeting Location:Town Hall - Committee Orientation Meeting
CHAPTER TWO
I'm staring at a blank document again. The curser blinks mockingly against the pristine whiteness, like it's personally timing how long I'm taking to produce something—anything—of value. I glance at the clock: 10:43 AM. I've been sitting here for nearly two hours with nothing to show for it.
"Come on, Eva," I mutter, fingers hovering over the keyboard. "It's just a website mockup, not the Sistine Chapel."
The client's brief sits open on my second monitor: "Something fresh but timeless. Bold but approachable. Cutting-edge but familiar."
I roll my eyes. Clients always want contradictions, never realizing they're asking for the impossible. I take a sip of my now-cold coffee and grimace.
I push back from my desk and stretch, feeling the uncomfortable pop in my spine from hunching over for too long. My apartment is quiet save for the distant hum of the refrigerator and the occasional car passing on the street below. The solitude used to feel peaceful. Lately, it just feels... empty.
In the kitchen, I open the refrigerator and stare blankly at its meager contents. Half a container of wilting spinach, some questionable cheese, and three different kinds of hot sauce. Adulthood at its finest.
The truth is, I could go to the café down the street. I could go anywhere. But the thought of small talk with the barista—of taking up space, of being seen—feels exhausting today.
My email notification chimes from my laptop.
Fine, universe. I hear you.
Back at my desk, I open the new message and blink in surprise at the sender: Town Council Administrative Office.
The subject line reads:Invitation: Meadowbrook Town Branding Committee.
"What the hell?" I mutter, clicking it open.
Dear Ms. Miller,
Based on your impressive portfolio and commitment to our community, we would like to invite you to join Meadowbrook's Town Branding Committee. Your expertise in user experience design would be invaluable as we update our town's visual identity and digital presence.
The first orientation meeting will be held next Thursday at 7 PM in the Town Hall conference room. Light refreshments will be provided.
Please RSVP at your earliest convenience.
Warmest regards,
