As soon as we met, Claire immediately started giving me an earful.
“Where’s Cole, letting you drag your suitcase around alone at night?
“Didn’t you say you guys were getting married this year? Why didn’t I see any photos from you on Valentine’s Day?
“I’ve told you before, I have a good eye for people, and Cole, he’s just not reliable. But you’re still chasing after him, you…”
She was right.
Seeing my tear-streaked face about to break down again, she finally stopped scolding Cole.
She gave me a big hug, but not before playfully pinching my waist and bursting into laughter.
“Summer, you’ve gained weight!”
“No, I haven’t!”
Although I protested, I knew it was true.
These past few years, I hadn’t worked, staying home every day, interacting with few people other than Cole.
Claire, in contrast, looked even better than she did in college.
She was constantly meeting clients, running around, and yet still made time for the gym and Pilates.
Now a senior executive at a major company, she radiated confidence.
I couldn’t help but envy her.
