t have fallen from his pocket. "I'll just keep it safe for now and return it

ucceeded in driving home, only to doze

seemed like the bar was bustling with customers today. I hope you're not too exhausted from it all.

arents. After their passing, Victoria moved in with Pamela, who welcomed her without h

ontained apartment, complete with a king-size

with a sigh. She dropped her bag on the floor, sank into the soft

ith curiosity. "What's cooking toda

s for you to eat," Victoria said with a laugh

kitchen carrying a plate of pasta,

said calmly. "I've already eaten, but I wanted to wait for your return to make s

st. No way I'm staying awake after that incredible meal!" Pamela grinned, her en

aid, "I'm going to bed now. When you're done, you can come to bed and turn off the light." She added, "Tomo

e time. Flopping onto her bed, she stared at the ceiling, her thoughts drifting as sh

omeone as good as her," she said to herself. She knew that betraying her friend would be w

friend, feeling uneasy, like trying to get comf

roubled. Did something happen at work?" Victoria asked, her s

't feel like sleeping right now, but I'm sure I'll get some rest soon. Go back to

e?" Victoria

mela replied, forcing a brighter tone as sh

"But try to get some rest it's almost morning, and we both have work soon." S

h the thought of betraying Victoria. The conflict weighed heavily

ed to stretch gently. A faint glow of sunlight spilled th

nd of dishes breaking the still morning. Soon, Pamela stirred, stretching u

floor, and cleaned the room, wh

bath to relax, then got dressed in their work clothes. They gathered th

out a 20-minute drive

y and how to handle things with Andrew. The worry showi

ela's eyes. "And this time," she continued, her voice

Pamela said, forcing an unconvi

omething's bothering you, I don't see why you should carry it alone. But if

paused. She gently held Victoria's hand, her face a mix of uncertainty and hesitation. "I... I want