Chapter 03.

nashas ✓ 2h

Nashira stepped into the warm embrace of her Los Angeles home, the familiar scent of sandalwood lingering in the air. She had just returned from Pensacola, where Trinity and Jon were wrapped in their own lives.

The couple seemed to thrive in their world together, and while Nashira felt a pang of longing for their company, she was also grateful for her time alone. It was a brief respite, a chance to recharge before heading to the recording studio, where the creative process awaited her.

After a quick change into comfortable clothes, she sank into her plush sofa, allowing the quiet of her home to wash over her. She took a moment to gather her thoughts, the melodies of her new song swirling in her mind.

The studio beckoned with promises of collaboration and inspiration, a place where she often poured her heart into her music.

Once there, she lost herself in the rhythm of creation. Surrounded by sound engineers and fellow musicians, she felt the familiar buzz of excitement as her lyrics came to life.

Every note she recorded felt like a piece of her soul emerging, a reflection of her journey—her complex relationship with Trinity and Jon nestled firmly in the mix.

Hours flew by, and when Nashira finally emerged from the studio, the sun had dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the city. She was ready for a change of pace, for laughter and companionship. Temia had suggested Nobu, and it was the perfect spot for their weekly catch-up.

As Nashira settled into her seat at the sleek restaurant, she was greeted by the comforting presence of her best friend. Temia, with her sharp wit and no-nonsense attitude, always managed to make Nashira feel both grounded and challenged. Today was no exception.

"I'm surprised Trin and Jon ain't here with you," Temia said, her eyes glinting with mischief. "You guys be attached to the hip."

Nashira pursed her lips, a habitual defense mechanism. "Not all the time. We like our space," she replied, trying to keep her tone light, but the undertone of irritation crept in.

Temia sipped her drink, unfazed. "So it's been two years... When are y'all going to end this three-way?" Her words came out casually, but the implications weighed heavy in the air.

Rolling her eyes, Nashira felt the familiar frustration rise within her. "We are good," she said, emphasizing the word 'good' as if it could encapsulate the entirety of their relationship.

Temia leaned forward, her tone shifting to one of genuine concern. Temia didn't agree with Nashira dating Trinity and Jon. She felt like Nashira was wasting her time and energy by dating a married couple when she could be dating single men or women who could give her everything she claims to be getting from Trinity and Jon.

"We may not be able to get married, but who said I wanted to get married? I have the best of both worlds. I'm very happy, and you should be happy that I'm happy, Temia," Nashira stated.

Temia smacked her lips, her skepticism palpable. "No, I'm not happy for you because even though you may not want marriage now, what about the future—especially when you want kids? Is Trinity going to let her husband get you pregnant? Every woman has a limit, and I'm sure that will be her limit. So what do you do then? Are you going to give up having kids for them? Huh? Nashira, please use your brain and get out before it's too late."

Nashira frowned, feeling her defenses rise. "I'm not even trying to get into it with you over my relationship, but please Temia, don't think you know everything about what I want because you don't."

"Right," Temia replied, a hint of disbelief in her voice.

"I'm so serious, Temia, because you always go hard on me about my life, but your shit ain't good either, and I keep quiet and support you. Why do you always have to be vocal about something but your own actions?" Nashira's voice was firm, her frustration spilling over as she glared at her friend.

Temia fell silent, her expression a mixture of surprise and contemplation. Nashira knew she was crossing a line, but the conversation had escalated to a point where it felt necessary to push back.

After a moment, Temia sighed, the fight slipping from her posture. "Okay, I get it. But you can't ignore the fact that it's not a traditional situation. You deserve someone who can fully commit to you, Nashira."

"Maybe I don't want that kind of commitment right now," Nashira shot back, the words surprising even her. "I love Trinity and Jon. They've brought so much joy into my life. I'm not looking to change what we have."

Temia studied her, her gaze piercing. "But what happens when you want more? You can't tell me that doesn't cross your mind."

Nashira looked away, her heart racing at the truth buried in Temia's question. It was an uncharted territory she often avoided, the thought of future children and the weight of expectations. "I can't predict the future," she replied softly. "All I know is that I'm happy now. Isn't that enough?"

"But is it real happiness?" Temia pressed, her voice laced with concern. "Or is it just a facade because you don't want to face the reality that you're in a relationship that can't fully be?"

Nashira opened her mouth to respond but paused, feeling the familiar knot in her stomach. She wanted to be angry, to push Temia's concerns away, but a small part of her acknowledged the truth in them. Her relationship with Trinity and Jon was complicated, and while she found joy in their connection, the nagging thoughts about the future loomed like dark clouds on the horizon.

"Look," she began, her tone softer now. "I know it's unconventional. But I don't want to throw away what we have just because it doesn't fit into some neat little box."

Temia nodded, her expression softening. "I just worry about you. I want you to be fulfilled in all aspects of your life."

"I appreciate that," Nashira said, feeling the tension between them ease. "But right now, I'm focused on my music, on enjoying this unique relationship. I'm not in a rush to define it in a way that fits societal norms."

Temia sighed, her posture relaxing as she leaned back in her chair. "Okay, I hear you. But promise me you'll keep your eyes open. Just don't ignore those feelings when they come."

Nashira nodded, appreciating Temia's concern even if she found it intrusive at times. They shifted the conversation to lighter topics, their laughter echoing off the restaurant's elegant decor.

The evening flowed seamlessly, but Nashira couldn't shake the weight of their discussion. As she listened to Temia talk about her latest project, she found herself contemplating the future—a future that felt uncertain yet filled with possibility.

Deep down, Nashira understood that relationships were rarely simple, and the choices she made now would shape the path ahead.

But in that moment, surrounded by the vibrant energy of Los Angeles and the warmth of her friend's companionship, she decided to focus on the present.

She would allow herself to be happy, to embrace the complexities of her life as they unfolded, one note at a time.