Lena’s POV

The next circle meeting changed the second I stepped inside - sofia had come early - she sat in the middle row, not her regular back corner. When she noticed me, her eyes relaxed. I smiled without a plan and took the seat next to her. Our knees touched as I settled. Neither of us shifted away.

During the check in, the other women listed their minor victories plus hard moments. Sofia stayed silent, her fingers laced and turning in her lap. I slid my hand beneath the table edge but also let my smallest finger touch hers - soft, unseen contact. Her breathing paused for a moment...