Maya - "You possess the magic within."

Destiny in a Brewery...

San Francisco was a whirlwind for us. Adjusting to a new city, especially alone, filled me with a nervous energy. Thankfully, Veda, with her connections, found us a cozy studio apartment on Ritch Street. I couldn't help but wonder what I would've done without her by my side.

After unpacking the essentials, we ventured out to Whole Foods Market, the vibrant colors and buzzing energy a stark contrast to the apprehension I felt inside. On our way back, the aroma of hops and malt drifted from a nearby storefront. "Black Hammer Brewing Company," the sign proclaimed. Veda's eyes lit up. "Fancy a celebratory beer before our big adventure begins?" she asked. The thought of a calming drink before the 'real world' of work hit was too tempting to resist.

Inside the brewery, the air buzzed with conversation and laughter. Unsure of myself in this new social setting, I quietly observed Veda as she effortlessly connected with the people around her. Suddenly, a voice startled me. "Ditched by your friend already? Looking for some fun?" Turning around, I saw a man, his face flushed with intoxication, looming over me. Fear prickled my skin, and I frantically searched for Veda, but she was nowhere to be seen. Tears welled up in my eyes, a silent plea for help.

Then, a blur of motion. A tall figure, seemingly out of nowhere, towered between me and the drunkard. The newcomer, easily over six feet tall, possessed an aura of quiet strength. Even in the dim light, the dark definition of his muscles rippled beneath his t-shirt. But his captivating features were what truly stole my breath. Deep brown skin, the color of rich chocolate, seemed to radiate an inner warmth. His face, a beautiful blend of Eastern and Western heritage, held a mesmerizing gaze. Large, warm eyes, the color of melted chocolate, seemed to pierce through my fear, searching for something deeper.

"Why aren't you answering your phone?" he asked, his voice a low rumble. "I told you to wait by the entrance. Where did you go? I've been looking everywhere."

The world narrowed, the drunkard forgotten. All I saw was him – my knight in shining armor, sculpted with a strength that both comforted and captivated. A shiver danced down my spine, a feeling both exhilarating and terrifying. This immediate connection, this feeling of being swept off my feet by a stranger, was a cliché I couldn't deny. He extended a strong, warm hand towards me, and as I looked into his eyes, a single, undeniable truth settled in my heart – I was smitten.

With a bewildered glance, the drunkard slunk away, defeated. My phone buzzed to life, Veda's name flashing on the screen. As I reached to thank my savior, he vanished like a wisp of smoke. Destiny, I thought, hoping our paths would cross again. Later, reunited with Veda, I recounted the evening's events, pleading with her never to leave my side again.

Veda, wide-eyed, exclaimed, "Whoa, Taara! Drunk dudes are the worst, but wait a minute, a total Adonis saved you? Spill the tea, girl! Forget the creep, let's talk about Mr. Dreamboat! Six feet of muscle with eyes that hold galaxies? Girl, that sounds like a mythical creature!"

I chuckled, shaking my head. "He handled the situation faster than you can say 'security' and then...poof! Gone. Like a magician. I never even got to thank him properly."

A thoughtful expression crossed Veda's face. "Wow, that's crazy. But maybe that's a good thing. Absence makes the heart grow fonder, right? Besides, if this guy is really all you're making him out to be, then destiny will definitely throw you back together, wouldn't you say?"

A small smile played on my lips. Maybe she was right. The universe, after all, worked in mysterious ways. Perhaps our paths would indeed cross again. For now, all I could do was wait...with a heart full of newfound hope.