ISABELLA

I woke up really early today. After that little showdown with my mom, I stayed with Zira for two weeks. I looked over to my best friend with her mouth wide open, drooling, wetting her pillow, and smiled. Had to do a lot of groveling to get her to stay and not leave. She’s been such a great support these weeks. Staying up watching romantic movies, eating our weight in desserts, and singing into the night. Even on days when she wasn’t feeling good.

I had to find a way to repay her. I carefully got out of bed, trying not to wake her, and packed my things. I...