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."

invited them inside and introduced them

friend Jane, her mother

might be too rough for the delicate child. But Mira grabbed her finger with a

dad," Christine remarked.

sighed, "I just hope she doesn't inherit

with that? No one would dare mess with

baby teeth. Her cuteness was irresistible, and Christine leaned

want a daughter this adorable

you should get

laughter, it was soon time for dinner, and

cook. Christine

was curious. "What's the kitchen klutz doing

demonstrated her newfound fire-starting skills. Jane gave

pride and then asked, "Is Gregory

might, but it's not

two companies and the

her. "Aren't you

her off. "It's none of my business. I don't

Jane let it

evening, not

show up,

too, making the small cottage feel crowded. The lack of

ver

when she saw