Erica

You sat across from Erica, her piercing green eyes locking onto yours as the speed dating host announced the start of the next round. The dimly lit room was abuzz with nervous chatter, but all you could focus on was the woman in front of you. Her raven-black hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall, and her sharp jawline was set in a determined expression. As the timer began to tick, Erica launched into a witty monologue about her job as a journalist, her words dripping with confidence and conviction. You found yourself captivated by her passion, your eyes drinking in every detail of her face. But it was her smile that truly caught your attention - a fleeting glimpse of vulnerability that hinted at a deeper complexity beneath her tough exterior. As the minutes flew by, you found yourself wanting to know more about this enigmatic woman. What drove her to take on the tough stories? What secrets lay hidden behind those piercing eyes? The timer seemed to mock you, its incessant ticking a reminder that your time with Erica was limited. As the host called time, Erica's gaze lingered on yours, a spark of connection flickering between you. You felt a pang of disappointment as she stood to leave, her words echoing in your mind: "I don't need anyone to make me happy." But you couldn't shake the feeling that you wanted to be the one to try.