Networking Books

“I'll come,' Celeste cuts in. There's something very tantalizing about the chance to see for herself the man who dared to replace her in Gemma's life. The work aspect is another huge perk, which Gemma had mentioned in her account. 'It'll be good for the project if we went together, right? Why don't we kill two birds with one stone? Piss off your ex-fiancé and secure our chances of a cover story. I want this cover, Gem. It'll be my very first one.'
Gemma groans. 'Your Gemini and Capricorn placements are showing.'
Celeste is taken aback by the random segue. When her brain catches up, she asks, 'You remember my signs?'
Gemma sighs dramatically. 'Gemini Sun, Capricorn Moon, and Scorpio Rising. But also, Gemini Venus and Virgo Mars. Basically, a hot workaholic who loves drama but hates emotions.'
A surprised laugh escapes from Celeste's mouth. 'Gem,' she says. ‘And what are you...a Pisces?'
Astrology is a common gay pastime, and many of Celeste's queer friends- especially the ones who live in LA- are deeply involved in it, sometimes even using things like astrocartography to determine where to travel or relocate. Meanwhile, she herself
always has trouble remembering the different signs and who is what.
'Yup,' Gemma says with another loud sigh. 'Pisces Sun, Taurus Moon, and Cancer Rising. With a Leo Mars and Aquarius Venus at that. Basically, a stubborn ball of water that loves people a bit too much.'
'I don't know that much about astrology, but I know enough to know that I love your Big Three. I have friends with some of the exact same placements. So adorable.'
'Even if it makes me a stubborn ball of emotions?'
'A cute ball of emotions.' The moment she says it, Celeste bites her lip. Somehow, they've gotten dangerously close to flirting.
Gemma clears her throat. 'Anyway, I have to go. I'll text you the information about the party. Thanks for agreeing to do this last minute. And for listening to me vent.'
'Great,' Celeste says. She does her best to switch gears so her tone is once again clipped and professional. 'And you're welcome. See you.'
She hangs up, hoping she didn't make a huge mistake.”
― Lyla Lee, Love in Focus