CHAPTER ELEVEN - AN UNEXPECTED ENCOUNTER

  Sunday morning sunlight streamed through the blinds in Nia's small bedroom. She stretched, feeling surprisingly refreshed despite the late night out. The events of the previous evening came flooding back - the club, the dancing, and meeting Justin. She smiled to herself, then glanced at the clock. It was nearly noon. Nia padded down the hallway to Maria's room and knocked softly. "Maria? You up?" A muffled groan came from behind the door. Nia chuckled and pushed the door open. Maria was sprawled across her bed, still fully clothed from the night before, her face buried in a pillow. "Rise and shine, sleeping beauty," Nia said. "I was thinking we could head to Flushing Meadows Park. It's gorgeous out." Maria lifted her head slightly, squinting at Nia. "How are you so chipper? I feel like death warmed over." "I guess I got lucky," Nia shrugged. "Come on, some fresh air will do you good." "Nia, I love you, but there's no way I'm moving from this bed today," Maria groaned. "My he