章 47: This is what’s best for me.

Lola came to see her friend. When she saw the bruises marring Ava's face, her heart clenched. "Oh my God, Ava!" she exclaimed with both shock and sympathy. "I'm so sorry I didn't come sooner." She rushed forward, enveloping her friend in a firm embrace.

Ava leaned into the embrace, offering a tired but grateful smile. "You're here now, that's all that matters." Despite the lingering pain, she forced a sarcastic chuckle. "Looks like I'll have to skip the reunion party this year too." Pointing to her bruised face, she added, "With this face, I can't attend the party."

"Relax, there is no party without you. We are postponing it."

Ava blinked in surprise. "What? You're postponing the whole thing just for me? Seriously?"

"Of course, darling!" Lola asserted as if it was the most obvious decision in the world. "Last year, everyone missed you. All were talking about you at the party. This year, I'm making sure you'll be there."