Lost Me Gained Regret

Christine clinked her glass against his, then tilted her head back and finished the drink in one go. The burn of the liquor was both sobering and intoxicating.

"You're right," she said, "thankfully, I wasn't in too deep."

Falling in love deeply can break your heart, but at least her heart wasn't shattered beyond repair.

...

Three days later, Jane arrived at the Merritt house with her child and Bella Taylor. They happened to catch Christine coming back, wearing a straw hat and rolled-up jeans, splattered with mud from head to toe.

Jane's eyes widened in surprise. "The girl who used to doll up just to take out the trash, what happened to you?"

"Did love make you lose your mind?" she teased.

Christine shot her a look. "Wish me well for once, dear friend."

Jane laughed. "I would, but this is quite the transformation."

Bella chimed in, "I think it's great. Being comfortable in your own skin is what's truly beautiful."

Christine noticed Bella's lovestruck glow and asked, "Seems like love is treating you well, Bella. You've got a new pep in your step."

"Stop teasing me."

"Why isn't Mr. Shaw here?"

"He'll join us later; he's tied up with a photo shoot."

them inside and introduced them to

is my best friend Jane, her mother Bella, and

be too rough for the delicate

Christine remarked.

"I just hope she doesn't inherit his sharp tongue. That

that? No one would dare mess

flashing two tiny baby teeth. Her cuteness was irresistible, and Christine leaned in to

daughter this adorable one

should get

time for dinner, and

Christine followed

was curious. "What's the kitchen klutz doing in

fire-starting skills. Jane gave a thumbs-up.

head with pride and then asked, "Is Gregory

but it's not certain. He's swamped with

and the Myers Group,

her. "Aren't you curious

"It's none of my business. I don't want to

wishes, Jane

evening, not only did

show up, but

cottage feel crowded. The

ver

jaw dropped when