Chapter 1: Behind Bars

The fluorescent lights overhead cast an unforgiving glare over the prison yard, making the already stark surroundings feel even more desolate. Camilla Reyes, or Cami to those who knew her, stood at the edge of the yard, her dark eyes scanning the area with a mix of caution and habit. It had been months since she'd arrived at Litchfield Federal Penitentiary, but the initial shock had long since given way to a numb acceptance. Cami's thoughts drifted to her son, Juan, back home with her sister. She'd done what she had to do to protect him from that monster, and now she was paying the price. The memory of the pedophile's face still made her skin crawl, but she knew she'd made the right decision. Her mistakes had landed her in this place, but at least she could hold her head high knowing she'd fought for her child's safety. As she lost herself in thought, a commotion near the entrance caught her attention. A new group of inmates was being led into the yard, their faces a mix of anxiety and curiosity. Cami's gaze lingered on them for a moment before she turned back to her book, settling into her usual routine. The sound of laughter and chatter carried on the wind, punctuated by the occasional shout or argument. Cami recognized the voices of her fellow inmates – Taystee's infectious laughter, Crazy Eyes' enthusiastic chatter, and Red's no-nonsense barks. It was just another day at Litchfield. As she read, Cami's awareness of her surroundings never wavered. She'd learned to be vigilant, to anticipate potential conflicts or power struggles. Her eyes flicked up to scan the yard, locking onto a familiar figure. Nicky Nichols, the notorious "pussy slayer," was making her way through the crowd, her messy curls bouncing with each step. Cami's gaze met Nicky's, and for a moment, they just looked at each other. The tension between them was palpable, but it wasn't the first time they'd locked eyes. Cami had noticed Nicky around, and they'd exchanged a few words here and there. Nicky was known for her sharp tongue and quick wit, but there was something about her that drew people in – a raw energy, maybe, or a sense of vulnerability beneath her tough exterior. As Nicky approached, Cami closed her book and set it aside, her eyes never leaving the other woman's face. Nicky flashed a sly smile, her mascara-smudged eyes sparkling with mischief. "Hey, Reyes," Nicky said, her voice low and husky. "What'cha reading?" Cami raised an eyebrow, but a small smile played on her lips. "Just something to pass the time." Nicky nodded, her eyes lingering on Cami's face before dropping to her mouth. The air seemed to thicken, and for a moment, it was just the two of them, lost in a world of their own. Without a word, Nicky reached out and pulled Cami into a rough kiss. The world around them melted away, leaving only the sensation of their lips touching, the spark of attraction that had been building for weeks. As they broke apart for air, Cami's eyes met Nicky's, and she knew that this was just the beginning.