NEXT DAY – 7 PM

Bethany adjusted her black, sleeveless gown and let her fingers graze the soft fabric. Her reflection in the mirror stared back, her hair cascading over her shoulders, framing her exquisite features.

Tonight was the one-year anniversary of Avery and her husband’s marriage—a milestone Bethany had missed two years ago.

She smiled faintly, though the ache of those years apart from Fred’s family lingered. Avery had been more than just a sister-in-law; she was her confidante, the one who sought her advice and found comfort in her presence.

It was time to see her again—her “water sister,” as they’d called each other in jest.

Satisfied with...