In just a month, I’ve had a fallout with my friends, quit my job, returned home, and planned a wedding. What a whirlwind!

The plane landed, and my phone buzzed with messages.

I skipped Alpha Mike and Mathew’s messages, guessing they were pleading with me to stop being reckless.

Why did I waste so many years on them?

Curious, I opened Ella’s message. A photo of her dressed elegantly at Alpha Mike’s mother’s birthday party, arm-in-arm with Mathew.

Ella's caption read: "Alice, sorry for taking your spot. Let's keep in touch, and please look out for us!" The provocation was evident.

I smirked and replied, "You three have fun. I...