Emma nervously tidied the living room, fluffing the throw pillows for what felt like the hundredth time. She hadn't seen Tina in months, not since everything had spiraled out of control. A mixture of guilt and excitement churned in her stomach as she waited for her friend's arrival.
The doorbell rang, startling Emma out of her thoughts. She took a deep breath, plastered on a smile, and opened the door.
"Emma!" Tina squealed, immediately engulfing her in a bone-crushing hug. "Oh my god, I've missed you so much!"
Emma relaxed into the embrace, realizing just how much she had missed her friend's exuberant energy. "I've missed you too, Tina. Come in, come in!"
As Tina bustled into the apartment, her eyes darting around to take in every detail, Emma felt a wave of nostalgia wash over her. I
