When they finally walked out of the boutique, arms loaded with shopping bags, Carla felt lighter. Not just because of the shopping but because of the much-needed time spent with her best friend.

“So, where to next?” Jenny asked.

Carla smirked. “I say we grab some ice cream. You owe me for making me try on all that lace.”

Jenny laughed. “Fair enough.”

As they walked off, Carla couldn’t help but think that days like these—simple, carefree, filled with laughter—were exactly what she needed. And as much as she loved her life with Liam and Dom, she was grateful for the moments she got to just be Carla.

And maybe,...