FIFTY NINE

Ruth POV

I decided to meet up with my friends Emily and Sarah at a coffee shop to tell them about Alex.

As I sat down at the table, they could tell that something was different about me.

"Ruth, what's going on?" Emily asked, noticing the smile on my face.

"I met someone," I said, barely containing my excitement.

Sarah's eyes widened. "Tell us everything!"

I took a deep breath and told them about Alex - about how we met, our first date, and how I was feeling.

Emily and Sarah listened intently, asking questions and making supportive noises.

When I finished, Emily said, "Ruth, this sounds amazing. We're so happy for you."

Sarah nodded in agreement. "You deserve it, Ruth. You've been through so much."

I smiled, feeling grateful for my friends. "Thanks, guys. I know it's complicated. I'm still getting over Michael and Vincent, but I just want to feel loved and cared for right now."

Emily and Sarah exchanged a knowing glance.

"We get it, Ruth," Emily said. "Just be careful and take things s