Episode 131

Elizabeth dragged herself home, overwhelmed by gloom, yearning only for the solitude of her apartment and the relief of a heartfelt sob.
To her surprise, upon leaving the elevator, she encountered Ruby, who was setting out in search of a late-night treat.
“Elizabeth…”
Ruby’s voice faltered as she spotted the unmistakable signs of distress in Elizabeth’s eyes. Quickly closing the distance between them, she expressed her concern. “What’s troubling you? Has something happened?”
“It’s nothing,” Elizabeth muttered, her voice barely above a whisper, as she brushed past, her steps heavy with fatigue.
Ruby lingered in the hallway, concern knitting her brows. After a moment’s hesitation, she ventured cautiously, “Elizabeth, are you still upset about that evening at ‘Serene Sighs’? When I persuaded you to have a drink?”
Since Elizabeth returned to rebuild her career, she had been noticeably aloof, and Ruby wondered if that night had caused a strain in their friendship.
It was time to clear the air.
Approaching gently, Ruby offered an explanation, hoping to bridge the gap between them. “I thought that having a drink might shield us from any unwanted advances.”
Stopping abruptly, Elizabeth turned, a mix of surprise and realization dawning on her face. She reassured Ruby, “I don’t blame you at all for that night. I know you were looking out for me. Your support has been invaluable since I’ve been back. I really appreciate it.”
Elizabeth had grown accustomed to processing her emotions in solitude, to such an extent that even her closest friend remained oblivious to her inner turmoil.
As she unlocked her apartment door and prepared to step inside, she hesitated, turning back to face Ruby. “Would you mind coming in for a while?” she asked, her voice tinged with hope.
Their gazes locked, and a mutual smile bridged the distance between them, silently healing old wounds.
Ruby stepped into the apartment, her voice firm yet comforting. “Whatever comes our way, let’s not shy away from discussing it. We’ll tackle it together, so no more bottling things up, okay?”