The thick compliments stunned Riley for a moment. It was weird, being called "classic," "beautiful," and "stunning" all in the space of five or so seconds. However, she didn't let punches knock her off her feet, and words couldn't hit any harder. Keeping her poise, she merely smiled. "Thanks," she said lamely. What else could she say?
She took a sip of her juice as Lia mentioned her career in boxing, smiling back at her. "Yeah?" she asked, perking up slightly. "Well I can get you free tickets! I had a fight a few weeks ago and was able to get a few of our neighbors in for free. For my next one, I'll save a spot for you."
As Lia casually put things away while talking, Riley was hit with a sack of bricks. She knew the woman had looked familiar, and this was why. Face flushing with slight embarrassment, she couldn't help the slight outburst that followed. "Oh my God!" she breathed, reaching up to clap a hand over her mouth. "I'm sorry, but...you're Lia Valencia, aren't you? The Lia Valencia? I knew you looked familiar, I read your column!"