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."

inside and introduced them

my best friend Jane, her

hands might be too rough for the delicate child. But Mira grabbed

like her dad," Christine remarked. "A

inherit his sharp tongue.

No one would dare mess

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

want a daughter this adorable one

you should

the laughter, it was soon time for dinner, and Helena headed to

cook. Christine

curious. "What's the kitchen

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

with pride

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

the Myers Group,

her. "Aren't you

her off. "It's none of

Jane

evening, not only

show up,

making the small cottage feel crowded. The lack of space wasn't

ver

dropped when