104. My Crush

Brenda had her bags packed as we stood together at the doorway, holding each other in a long, tight hug. She had been my rock throughout all the madness, and now she was going on a vacation for her work trip.

“I’m going to miss you,” I said, my voice heavy with emotion. “I don’t know how I would have gotten through any of this without you.”

Brenda smiled, pulling back to look at me, her eyes filled with warmth. “You’ve been strong, Veronica. Stronger than you give yourself credit for. I’m always just a call away, and don’t you dare forget that. You're always welcome in Paris whenever you feel like seeing your Fav cousin.”

“I won’t forget all you did for me.” I said, wiping a tear that had started to roll down my cheek. “Thank you for everything.”

We shared one last hug before she picked up her suitcase. Mark, her new romantic interest, was waiting by the car, ready to drive her to the airport. She gave me a wink and a playful nudge toward the house.

“Take care of that man in there and