Sophia was browsing a luxury handbag display at the mall when a familiar voice cut through the soft music.

“Sophia.”

She turned, surprise flashing across her face before melting into a smile.

“Aria! Hi, dear.”

Aria stepped closer, her lips curved.

“Where have you been? You disappeared. I thought you weren’t even in town.”

“I’ve been around,” Sophia replied lightly. “Just… keeping to myself.”

Aria raised a brow.

“And you didn’t think to check on your best friend?”

Sophia chuckled awkwardly.

“You’re right. I deserve that.”

She hesitated, then sighed.

“Aria, I still feel terrible about what happened between us. I promised to make your outfit and I disappointed you....