ZOE’S POV
By the time the laughter between us faded, Lani was still shaking her head, that teasing grin softening into something warmer.
“Zoe,” she said, reaching over to squeeze my hand, “you know I love hearing about your scandalous adventures, but for real — how are you? What’s the next step for you now?”
Her tone was softer now, the kind that forced me to stop pretending to be okay.
I hesitated, then sighed. “I think I’m done pretending I’m okay with Liam still in the house, I need to kick him out. For good.”
Lani’s expression turned serious. She reached over, squeezing my hand. “Then do it. I’ve got your back. Always.”
Her certainty steadied me in a way I hadn’t realized I needed.
She got to her feet, grabbing her purse. “Come on. Let’s head home. I was only at the shop because
