Elena stood in front of the mirror in her bedroom, holding up two dresses. The showcase was only three days away, and while her designs were the centerpiece, she knew the impression she made mattered just as much. After much internal debate, she settled on a sleek navy dress that struck a balance between professional and stylish.
Her phone buzzed on the nightstand. Picking it up, she saw a message from Mia: Prepping for the showcase? Don't forget to breathe.
Elena smiled, typing back: Easier said than done. The showcase was the culmination of months of work, a chance to not only solidify her reputation but also attract new clients.
Meanwhile, across town, Lucas sat at his desk, scrolling through Elena Carter's professional portfolio online. The showcase was open to the public, and he'd already decided he was going. It wasn't just curiosity—it felt like a chance to bridge the gap left by their fleeting morning encounter.
The night of the showcase arrived quickly. The venue buzzed with chatter as guests admired the displays. Elena floated through the room, exchanging handshakes and polite smiles. Yet, her heart raced when she spotted a familiar face in the crowd.
Lucas stood near one of her models, examining a scale model of her latest project. He looked up, and their eyes met. This time, he smiled first.
"Small world," he said, walking over.
"Or a very big city," Elena replied, unable to hide her surprise.
"I didn't spill coffee on anyone this time, so I thought I'd even the score," Lucas said with a grin.
Elena laughed, some of the evening's tension melting away. "So, what do you think of the designs?"
"They're incredible," Lucas said earnestly. "Though I can't help but wonder—does the architect behind them drink as much coffee as she spills?"
"Touché." Elena smiled. For the first time that evening, she felt completely at ease.
As the night continued, they found themselves talking by the refreshment table, oblivious to the buzz of the crowd around them. When Lucas finally left, Elena was surprised to find his card in her hand, his name and number written on the back.
Later that night, as she lay in bed, Elena stared at the card on her nightstand. Maybe Mia was right about random encounters after all.