Antony stood in front of Rita now, shielding her. "That's enough, Lydia."
But Rita stepped out from behind him, her eyes blazing through her tears. "No, let her talk. Let her finish."
They stared at each other—two women who once shared everything, now torn apart by choices, love, and grief.
Lydia's voice dropped. "I love you, Rita. You're my best friend. But I can't watch you destroy my brother. I won't. If this is the path you've chosen… we better end this friendship here."
The words hung like a dagger in the air.
Rita felt her knees weaken. She gripped the counter to steady herself. "So that's it? After everything… that's how we end?"
Lydia blinked hard but didn't answer. She turned on her heel, stormed toward the door, and paused—just for a moment—as if waiting for R
