{"id":8882,"date":"2025-03-19T22:49:52","date_gmt":"2025-03-19T22:49:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/news-vm.com\/?p=8882"},"modified":"2025-03-19T22:49:52","modified_gmt":"2025-03-19T22:49:52","slug":"my-best-friend-asked-me-to-help-with-her-engagement-party-when-i-arrived-i-was-horrified-by-her-betrayal","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/news-vm.com\/?p=8882","title":{"rendered":"My Best Friend Asked Me to Help with Her Engagement Party \u2014 When I Arrived, I Was Horrified by Her Betrayal"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36 ContentRenderer_paragraph-first___d_VF\">When Oakley&#8217;s best friend Sophie ropes her into planning an engagement party, she&#8217;s happy to help, until the event turns into a nightmarish betrayal. Confronted by her cheating ex in a public proposal orchestrated by Sophie, Oakley is forced to question loyalty, love, and her own worth.<\/p><div class=\"avcws69f5998391c75\" ><div style=\"width:100%; max-width:1200px; margin:0 auto;\">\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/bolt-casino.com?r=0BFDBF1283\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\n    <img \n      src=\"https:\/\/news-vm.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/f8693ebb-2018-480f-a2f7-0096810c07f0.jpg\" \n      alt=\"200% Deposit Bonus + 10% Cashback\" \n      style=\"width:100%; height:auto; display:block; border-radius:8px; cursor:pointer;\"\n    \/>\n  <\/a>\n<\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">\r\n@media screen and (min-width: 1201px) {\r\n.avcws69f5998391c75 {\r\ndisplay: block;\r\n}\r\n}\r\n@media screen and (min-width: 993px) and (max-width: 1200px) {\r\n.avcws69f5998391c75 {\r\ndisplay: block;\r\n}\r\n}\r\n@media screen and (min-width: 769px) and (max-width: 992px) {\r\n.avcws69f5998391c75 {\r\ndisplay: block;\r\n}\r\n}\r\n@media screen and (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 768px) {\r\n.avcws69f5998391c75 {\r\ndisplay: block;\r\n}\r\n}\r\n@media screen and (max-width: 767px) {\r\n.avcws69f5998391c75 {\r\ndisplay: block;\r\n}\r\n}\r\n<\/style>\r\n\n<div>\n<div class=\"adv\">\n<div class=\"Ad-Container AdvInTextBuilder_slot-wrapper___Oz3G\">\n<div class=\"AdvTitle_wrap__5d8cN\">\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">Friendships are complicated things. Sophie and I weren&#8217;t the storybook best friends who did everything together. Instead, ours was built on a shaky foundation of high school rivalry, competing for grades, sports, and even attention at parties.<\/p>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/XBQjsOAPyiifWeNuPMxHams05tQ8CQVUfwASvJtI7gA\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNmIwZWQ2YjJmOGIwNTAwYThhZTg4MmQwYzY4YTM2NThmYzM4NGU5NmU2YmM1MDQxYTM3ZmZjMzBjZDY5YzEzMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 375w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/OSOpvZWS0izWHx2lFWvfdkgfV87piqnBIUouWxqLIO0\/rs:fill:576:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNmIwZWQ2YjJmOGIwNTAwYThhZTg4MmQwYzY4YTM2NThmYzM4NGU5NmU2YmM1MDQxYTM3ZmZjMzBjZDY5YzEzMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 576w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/QSicT1yPclTZ6oq-utuQBlfthDrp8YgpLgLQCP4qn4A\/rs:fill:768:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNmIwZWQ2YjJmOGIwNTAwYThhZTg4MmQwYzY4YTM2NThmYzM4NGU5NmU2YmM1MDQxYTM3ZmZjMzBjZDY5YzEzMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 768w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/pRzwe_cp80c84FmY3fqRi5TLwae3eoIdtmRNmYmvwIM\/rs:fill:992:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNmIwZWQ2YjJmOGIwNTAwYThhZTg4MmQwYzY4YTM2NThmYzM4NGU5NmU2YmM1MDQxYTM3ZmZjMzBjZDY5YzEzMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 992w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/r_k3Eicut7nEUPG_eyVHNKZdQfL6OEYJsGKeUnsXCns\/rs:fill:1200:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNmIwZWQ2YjJmOGIwNTAwYThhZTg4MmQwYzY4YTM2NThmYzM4NGU5NmU2YmM1MDQxYTM3ZmZjMzBjZDY5YzEzMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 1200w\" type=\"image\/jpeg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 835px) 100vw, (max-width: 1279px) 830px, 830px\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<div><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/6b0ed6b2f8b0500a8ae882d0c68a3658fc384e96e6bc5041a37ffc30cd69c133.png\" alt=\"Two high school girls | Source: Midjourney\" \/><\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">But somewhere along the way, we found common ground. By college, she was the one I trusted with everything, the one who always had my back.<\/p>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"><i class=\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\">Or so I assumed.<\/i><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">When Sophie called me a few weeks ago, her voice bubbled with excitement through the phone.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;Oakley! Ryan and I are throwing a little engagement party,&#8221; she said, pausing dramatically. &#8220;It&#8217;s a surprise announcement. No one else knows yet, not even Ryan. Well, not about the party, I mean. So, I need your help.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"adv\">\n<div class=\"Ad-Container AdvInTextBuilder_slot-wrapper___Oz3G AdvInTextBuilder_slot-wrapper-second-floor__HFrmf\">\n<div class=\"AdvTitle_wrap__5d8cN\"><span class=\"AdvTitle_text__VO0tZ\">Advertisement<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/3faa646d096ec7a32dd6600bb259eadd85ff84f8321e28653b78fbbd3206ab0d.png\" alt=\"A woman talking on the phone | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"Image_title__T6_we\" data-testid=\"image-source\">A woman talking on the phone | Source: Midjourney<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;Of course, Sophie,&#8221; I said, genuinely happy for her. &#8220;Congratulations, bestie!&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">Ryan was a sweet and lovely guy, and Sophie deserved someone who treated her well and always put her first.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;But it&#8217;s not a big thing,&#8221; she added quickly. &#8220;I want a cozy and intimate vibe, you know? Just our closest people. I&#8217;ll send out the invitations and whatnot when you&#8217;re ready with them. You&#8217;re so good at planning these events. Can you handle it?&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/m1kmQoSmaIdwOH7iEFOdOt6GdTuaeM4s4V4pib578wQ\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMzkyYzNiYjY3MGNmM2I5ODQ5YjJiOTRkNjUxOTYwZGNjYWM3YzRkOGRmOTgyNjIyNjA5MzgwNmE4NzAzYTFjNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 375w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/Mf2w9xerz3q3MtpRC-DMhRV51lcqZX4G9b5Y5mVCOUw\/rs:fill:576:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMzkyYzNiYjY3MGNmM2I5ODQ5YjJiOTRkNjUxOTYwZGNjYWM3YzRkOGRmOTgyNjIyNjA5MzgwNmE4NzAzYTFjNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 576w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/ieNeilbApr_BgPLgLYpHp9ODGMWbOD28WdofGjUmpe4\/rs:fill:768:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMzkyYzNiYjY3MGNmM2I5ODQ5YjJiOTRkNjUxOTYwZGNjYWM3YzRkOGRmOTgyNjIyNjA5MzgwNmE4NzAzYTFjNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 768w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/Nw9iZCMBKpYVWrLWvHDgRyIMog_PXqlPuLF3EXkVTlc\/rs:fill:992:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMzkyYzNiYjY3MGNmM2I5ODQ5YjJiOTRkNjUxOTYwZGNjYWM3YzRkOGRmOTgyNjIyNjA5MzgwNmE4NzAzYTFjNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 992w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/ujKjUzI0jBPa2cw3QSRaAMBDCV6pS5PBraUU0Bou2zI\/rs:fill:1200:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMzkyYzNiYjY3MGNmM2I5ODQ5YjJiOTRkNjUxOTYwZGNjYWM3YzRkOGRmOTgyNjIyNjA5MzgwNmE4NzAzYTFjNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 1200w\" type=\"image\/jpeg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 835px) 100vw, (max-width: 1279px) 830px, 830px\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/392c3bb670cf3b9849b2b94d651960dccac7c4d8df9826226093806a8703a1c7.png\" alt=\"A woman talking on a phone | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">I didn&#8217;t hesitate. I actually loved planning events.<\/p>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;Absolutely,&#8221; I said. &#8220;Just tell me what you need and if there&#8217;s anything specific you want.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">Over the next few weeks, I noticed Sophie&#8217;s usual chatter had a strange edge to it. She was jumpy and dismissive whenever I pressed her for details.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;I don&#8217;t want to jinx it,&#8221; she&#8217;d say with a nervous laugh.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/NdVkfa-IweDIeEAp6mQ9Uh4M6IHusyShTSWJjgHvKbI\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vN2ZhNTU3ZWExNGExYmUwNGViYWQ4OTI4MmFiMjRmOWVjMDJiM2Y5Zjc1ZThjMDQxZDBkYWRlYmQwOTE5MjdjMi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 375w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/FjYisk9wjY2x6R9pYOFzbM1wzzCA8Ao2hsGEWSAEjgk\/rs:fill:576:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vN2ZhNTU3ZWExNGExYmUwNGViYWQ4OTI4MmFiMjRmOWVjMDJiM2Y5Zjc1ZThjMDQxZDBkYWRlYmQwOTE5MjdjMi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 576w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/DcacgpEBEVag2sQCPjutzOVjdnnRzzcHGj1aWZCu0eo\/rs:fill:768:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vN2ZhNTU3ZWExNGExYmUwNGViYWQ4OTI4MmFiMjRmOWVjMDJiM2Y5Zjc1ZThjMDQxZDBkYWRlYmQwOTE5MjdjMi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 768w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/F6jmU1-YDIlEIJBS1lPZ0jmqFNcdb42PrvZD1jFtmho\/rs:fill:992:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vN2ZhNTU3ZWExNGExYmUwNGViYWQ4OTI4MmFiMjRmOWVjMDJiM2Y5Zjc1ZThjMDQxZDBkYWRlYmQwOTE5MjdjMi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 992w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/yKVQSlzd66D6WeABuSTHK4UIO2DkFeerUje3OCvuZLY\/rs:fill:1200:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vN2ZhNTU3ZWExNGExYmUwNGViYWQ4OTI4MmFiMjRmOWVjMDJiM2Y5Zjc1ZThjMDQxZDBkYWRlYmQwOTE5MjdjMi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 1200w\" type=\"image\/jpeg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 835px) 100vw, (max-width: 1279px) 830px, 830px\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/7fa557ea14a1be04ebad89282ab24f9ec02b3f9f75e8c041d0dadebd091927c2.png\" alt=\"A party-planning notebook | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"Image_title__T6_we\" data-testid=\"image-source\">A party-planning notebook | Source: Midjourney<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;Jinx what?&#8221; I asked. &#8220;Everything is already planned. I just need to get the cake order finalized and it will all be sorted. Nothing can be jinxed, Soph. It&#8217;s all going to be perfect.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;You can&#8217;t be too careful&#8230;&#8221; she said wryly.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">I figured it was just pre-party jitters. She&#8217;d always been a little dramatic, but I thought it was part of her charm. I didn&#8217;t question it.<\/p>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">By Friday night, I had spent hours arranging pink and gold balloons, fairy lights, and floral centerpieces. Sophie&#8217;s backyard looked like a scene from a romantic movie.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/kN95PljIXWkcIXyvoFHD9x8r8Fdk2MzigdfBrGJDFkI\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNzI2MjczOTM2NmIwZTJiZDY4NDAwOWUxMjYxYWQzYjY2MDIxOWVhOWVjMTk0ZmFmYWQ4YmRkOTM1ODgzZDY3ZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 375w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/iZhAq_UtZixzx6tZlotRZI0Vp1vZBljp12lGN_VB00Y\/rs:fill:576:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNzI2MjczOTM2NmIwZTJiZDY4NDAwOWUxMjYxYWQzYjY2MDIxOWVhOWVjMTk0ZmFmYWQ4YmRkOTM1ODgzZDY3ZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 576w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/Zvu26BEH8imnzgH_TAt9GpjuAAdo-bSlgY5SWijwHcc\/rs:fill:768:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNzI2MjczOTM2NmIwZTJiZDY4NDAwOWUxMjYxYWQzYjY2MDIxOWVhOWVjMTk0ZmFmYWQ4YmRkOTM1ODgzZDY3ZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 768w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/uJ_3dvyNpgfPxNInf9u_HyuhpFht_25tpKspgdZ03O4\/rs:fill:992:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNzI2MjczOTM2NmIwZTJiZDY4NDAwOWUxMjYxYWQzYjY2MDIxOWVhOWVjMTk0ZmFmYWQ4YmRkOTM1ODgzZDY3ZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 992w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/G3A9lMot3Z1PyzD_z9vwKnz3_vTyHI_5hzNc2N37hig\/rs:fill:1200:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNzI2MjczOTM2NmIwZTJiZDY4NDAwOWUxMjYxYWQzYjY2MDIxOWVhOWVjMTk0ZmFmYWQ4YmRkOTM1ODgzZDY3ZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 1200w\" type=\"image\/jpeg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 835px) 100vw, (max-width: 1279px) 830px, 830px\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/7262739366b0e2bd684009e1261ad3b660219ea9ec194fafad8bdd935883d67d.png\" alt=\"A backyard setup | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"Image_title__T6_we\" data-testid=\"image-source\">A backyard setup | Source: Midjourney<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">Sophie squealed in delight when she saw the setup.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;It&#8217;s exactly how I imagined it!&#8221; she gushed. &#8220;Thank you, Oak. You&#8217;ve made it perfect. Just perfect.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">When Saturday arrived, I loaded the last box of heart-shaped balloons into my car, excited to see Sophie&#8217;s big reveal to Ryan. He had been away for work since Thursday, and he was going to walk into the surprise engagement on his way home.<\/p>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/d39042c092983b78a53f8156e4d287e0246b357ec0a3d9e00158b0c3b5711c25.png\" alt=\"A smiling woman | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"Image_title__T6_we\" data-testid=\"image-source\">A smiling woman | Source: Midjourney<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">I could already picture it:<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">Ryan&#8217;s stunned face, the joy in Sophie&#8217;s eyes, and the warmth of celebrating her happiness, surrounded by all their closest people.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">But when I stepped into the event hall, my excitement curdled into something cold and heavy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">Jason, my ex-boyfriend, stood in the center of the living room, which now had vases of flowers and some of the pink and gold balloons all over.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/YynliHffs8M-b8YbffZEeCZRZ0nY0wvMIxeFtzrPI7k\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZDdmYTA2MjljM2E2Zjc1MDE0YmY1ZDIzZWZkOTRmODBiNTJhODQxMGViMTU2ZmY5ZWMwMmZmNzJiYmY0ZDBjNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 375w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/sbADmqX7gYUUTYU-KyNzJo97P-6frQWi_2Kb9b9yx9o\/rs:fill:576:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZDdmYTA2MjljM2E2Zjc1MDE0YmY1ZDIzZWZkOTRmODBiNTJhODQxMGViMTU2ZmY5ZWMwMmZmNzJiYmY0ZDBjNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 576w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/6juvDM2h54c4j9tCQG8hqlvYRGQr2pNMJyMFlsgZ4NY\/rs:fill:768:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZDdmYTA2MjljM2E2Zjc1MDE0YmY1ZDIzZWZkOTRmODBiNTJhODQxMGViMTU2ZmY5ZWMwMmZmNzJiYmY0ZDBjNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 768w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/6sB4WOEkdpTFccBdVvev6EFoU2SrO_SaQsvQdxoWkKU\/rs:fill:992:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZDdmYTA2MjljM2E2Zjc1MDE0YmY1ZDIzZWZkOTRmODBiNTJhODQxMGViMTU2ZmY5ZWMwMmZmNzJiYmY0ZDBjNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 992w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/yUqP-WRz3vEApKUwQ2eARyA6CpPKNcAK-azyVIXsT0Y\/rs:fill:1200:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZDdmYTA2MjljM2E2Zjc1MDE0YmY1ZDIzZWZkOTRmODBiNTJhODQxMGViMTU2ZmY5ZWMwMmZmNzJiYmY0ZDBjNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 1200w\" type=\"image\/jpeg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 835px) 100vw, (max-width: 1279px) 830px, 830px\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/d39042c092983b78a53f8156e4d287e0246b357ec0a3d9e00158b0c3b5711c25.png\" alt=\"A smiling woman | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"Image_title__T6_we\" data-testid=\"image-source\">A smiling woman | Source: Midjourney<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">I could already picture it:<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">Ryan&#8217;s stunned face, the joy in Sophie&#8217;s eyes, and the warmth of celebrating her happiness, surrounded by all their closest people.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">But when I stepped into the event hall, my excitement curdled into something cold and heavy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">Jason, my ex-boyfriend, stood in the center of the living room, which now had vases of flowers and some of the pink and gold balloons all over.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/YynliHffs8M-b8YbffZEeCZRZ0nY0wvMIxeFtzrPI7k\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZDdmYTA2MjljM2E2Zjc1MDE0YmY1ZDIzZWZkOTRmODBiNTJhODQxMGViMTU2ZmY5ZWMwMmZmNzJiYmY0ZDBjNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 375w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/sbADmqX7gYUUTYU-KyNzJo97P-6frQWi_2Kb9b9yx9o\/rs:fill:576:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZDdmYTA2MjljM2E2Zjc1MDE0YmY1ZDIzZWZkOTRmODBiNTJhODQxMGViMTU2ZmY5ZWMwMmZmNzJiYmY0ZDBjNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 576w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/6juvDM2h54c4j9tCQG8hqlvYRGQr2pNMJyMFlsgZ4NY\/rs:fill:768:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZDdmYTA2MjljM2E2Zjc1MDE0YmY1ZDIzZWZkOTRmODBiNTJhODQxMGViMTU2ZmY5ZWMwMmZmNzJiYmY0ZDBjNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 768w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/6sB4WOEkdpTFccBdVvev6EFoU2SrO_SaQsvQdxoWkKU\/rs:fill:992:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZDdmYTA2MjljM2E2Zjc1MDE0YmY1ZDIzZWZkOTRmODBiNTJhODQxMGViMTU2ZmY5ZWMwMmZmNzJiYmY0ZDBjNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 992w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/yUqP-WRz3vEApKUwQ2eARyA6CpPKNcAK-azyVIXsT0Y\/rs:fill:1200:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZDdmYTA2MjljM2E2Zjc1MDE0YmY1ZDIzZWZkOTRmODBiNTJhODQxMGViMTU2ZmY5ZWMwMmZmNzJiYmY0ZDBjNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 1200w\" type=\"image\/jpeg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 835px) 100vw, (max-width: 1279px) 830px, 830px\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">He wore a suit and held a small, velvet ring box. His grin spread wide, the same grin that had once charmed me and now made my stomach churn.<\/p>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;Surprise!&#8221; Sophie chirped, rushing toward me with a wide smile. &#8220;Jason has been planning this for weeks! And we thought, who better to help with the decorations than you? Isn&#8217;t it romantic?&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">I stared at her, the pieces slowly clicking into place.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">This wasn&#8217;t Sophie and Ryan&#8217;s engagement party. This was Jason&#8217;s proposal to me.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/v4Ye9_hxv5-_5BVf4DbTNjaAACvRNrRhe_W2ZPqrxQk\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNGZjMDhiYjhkNGRkYjRjNDBkMWJlM2JhMTMzMDI3ODBhYWE4YjI4NjQxN2NjMGE2OGViODcwMTUyNjEzY2RmMS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 375w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/egyPxEmY7QaylqsnKiIT6t2kPW3tF3phrepUZFVPLeM\/rs:fill:576:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNGZjMDhiYjhkNGRkYjRjNDBkMWJlM2JhMTMzMDI3ODBhYWE4YjI4NjQxN2NjMGE2OGViODcwMTUyNjEzY2RmMS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 576w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/iBQZ0EuNHX_o4AScRWuSnXQIQXlGUghJqI4F89ccf5Y\/rs:fill:768:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNGZjMDhiYjhkNGRkYjRjNDBkMWJlM2JhMTMzMDI3ODBhYWE4YjI4NjQxN2NjMGE2OGViODcwMTUyNjEzY2RmMS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 768w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/eWzdkICwj5OEmWDBFiytPULhK-waFARgjKBNrj7a7wg\/rs:fill:992:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNGZjMDhiYjhkNGRkYjRjNDBkMWJlM2JhMTMzMDI3ODBhYWE4YjI4NjQxN2NjMGE2OGViODcwMTUyNjEzY2RmMS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 992w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/CENBowxg20HW47pJPw5WSxbF_5pk267dScgZbG39Yqc\/rs:fill:1200:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNGZjMDhiYjhkNGRkYjRjNDBkMWJlM2JhMTMzMDI3ODBhYWE4YjI4NjQxN2NjMGE2OGViODcwMTUyNjEzY2RmMS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 1200w\" type=\"image\/jpeg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 835px) 100vw, (max-width: 1279px) 830px, 830px\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/4fc08bb8d4ddb4c40d1be3ba13302780aaa8b286417cc0a68eb870152613cdf1.png\" alt=\"A shocked woman | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"Image_title__T6_we\" data-testid=\"image-source\">A shocked woman | Source: Midjourney<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"><i class=\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\">Jason&#8217;s proposal.<\/i><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"><i class=\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\">Jason?!<\/i><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">And I had unknowingly helped decorate and cater for the entire event.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"adv\">\n<div class=\"AdvTitle_wrap__5d8cN\">\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;What the hell is this?&#8221; I managed to whisper, my voice shaking as my knees almost buckled.<\/p>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">Jason stepped closer, the same confidence oozing from him that had once been magnetic.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/Il6ILqs4Ixyx3wx7GGJO6Qz_kvfImmOTRulC5FXkygI\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjk5NjVmZDQyMzc5ZDhlYjI3Njg0YjEyNWE2NDc5YjQyNTViNjM4YTIyNWZlNjc1MDAxYzY1OWVjNjhiZGIzOC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 375w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/XFBBbIhoCYcAF9X5sn8cIi1VqZ7uN7Eor7kUjWFNtWo\/rs:fill:576:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjk5NjVmZDQyMzc5ZDhlYjI3Njg0YjEyNWE2NDc5YjQyNTViNjM4YTIyNWZlNjc1MDAxYzY1OWVjNjhiZGIzOC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 576w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/IrGZSTzKI5p7W_UrQhBPSQe10iov509pAKcyZm8xq3A\/rs:fill:768:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjk5NjVmZDQyMzc5ZDhlYjI3Njg0YjEyNWE2NDc5YjQyNTViNjM4YTIyNWZlNjc1MDAxYzY1OWVjNjhiZGIzOC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 768w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/_9FjporVAXxMGq5ZZJbxJjP9fs1sD6lLrZGnHWuXJsk\/rs:fill:992:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjk5NjVmZDQyMzc5ZDhlYjI3Njg0YjEyNWE2NDc5YjQyNTViNjM4YTIyNWZlNjc1MDAxYzY1OWVjNjhiZGIzOC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 992w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/fTMO_SRs_1GktjQWuNrtjLWxtoThId8n-OsfY1uaXYA\/rs:fill:1200:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjk5NjVmZDQyMzc5ZDhlYjI3Njg0YjEyNWE2NDc5YjQyNTViNjM4YTIyNWZlNjc1MDAxYzY1OWVjNjhiZGIzOC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 1200w\" type=\"image\/jpeg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 835px) 100vw, (max-width: 1279px) 830px, 830px\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/69965fd42379d8eb27684b125a6479b4255b638a225fe675001c659ec68bdb38.png\" alt=\"A man in a suit | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"Image_title__T6_we\" data-testid=\"image-source\">A man in a suit | Source: Midjourney<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;I know I messed up,&#8221; he began, as if acknowledging the understatement of the century. &#8220;But I&#8217;ve changed, Oakley. You&#8217;re the only one for me. And I want to spend the rest of my life proving it.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">My mind reeled.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">Jason, who had cheated on me with a coworker, forced me into questioning my worth, and dumped me with a single text after weeks of silence, now thought this public spectacle would erase it all?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"adv\">\n<div class=\"AdvTitle_wrap__5d8cN\">\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">I turned to Sophie, desperate for an explanation.<\/p>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/TCHgbvV2mvJEaobDaktfdgWrn6OsaWtN-Jnpo0dFbB0\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vODViYzk2YjE1MGNmYjgwZjE5MTc2MDAyNzY0MTY3ZTJhODY4ZjkzNTUwODVmMDYzYjNmNjRiN2U4ZmQ4N2U5Zi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 375w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/uC0591HzfXCCAjEzowc5dNtv89xhRAPqNKDwZ7Bu7dw\/rs:fill:576:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vODViYzk2YjE1MGNmYjgwZjE5MTc2MDAyNzY0MTY3ZTJhODY4ZjkzNTUwODVmMDYzYjNmNjRiN2U4ZmQ4N2U5Zi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 576w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/GtcARsetLsHkHoKD0nUIs_b3En2ok4wW-Qd26dUnUwQ\/rs:fill:768:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vODViYzk2YjE1MGNmYjgwZjE5MTc2MDAyNzY0MTY3ZTJhODY4ZjkzNTUwODVmMDYzYjNmNjRiN2U4ZmQ4N2U5Zi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 768w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/ySnCTCqrKDB7cads8GUFfMW2yNXW-ejUS31JZTN9uoQ\/rs:fill:992:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vODViYzk2YjE1MGNmYjgwZjE5MTc2MDAyNzY0MTY3ZTJhODY4ZjkzNTUwODVmMDYzYjNmNjRiN2U4ZmQ4N2U5Zi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 992w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/_PIJ3jVcrQfbb6j3i6BA1JfLKWNQeSevgMS1O9lpjPQ\/rs:fill:1200:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vODViYzk2YjE1MGNmYjgwZjE5MTc2MDAyNzY0MTY3ZTJhODY4ZjkzNTUwODVmMDYzYjNmNjRiN2U4ZmQ4N2U5Zi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 1200w\" type=\"image\/jpeg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 835px) 100vw, (max-width: 1279px) 830px, 830px\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/85bc96b150cfb80f19176002764167e2a868f9355085f063b3f64b7e8fd87e9f.png\" alt=\"An upset woman sitting on a couch | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"Image_title__T6_we\" data-testid=\"image-source\">An upset woman sitting on a couch | Source: Midjourney<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;You knew what he did to me,&#8221; I said, my voice breaking. &#8220;You knew, Sophie.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">She shrugged, smiling as if she hadn&#8217;t just betrayed me.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;Everyone makes mistakes. Besides, he&#8217;s serious now. He&#8217;s ready to commit, Oak. Isn&#8217;t that what you&#8217;ve always wanted? Isn&#8217;t that what matters?&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">The air seemed to leave my lungs altogether.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/wcPsJpuNdHPjzuPNUPshdAFln2wpHyLQVq7_5OIzNN4\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYjIyNWEwMTNiOTAxYzlhODQ5ZTg2NDU4NTM5ZWE5YjFlMGQ5NDcwYjZlOTBhZGVmZTAwNmQ2MjFiNzRkNWFiMS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 375w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/LwS4IOPFfEFgzX_Sdy4j5lqW5PeOhlKyh7Fd1L10IDk\/rs:fill:576:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYjIyNWEwMTNiOTAxYzlhODQ5ZTg2NDU4NTM5ZWE5YjFlMGQ5NDcwYjZlOTBhZGVmZTAwNmQ2MjFiNzRkNWFiMS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 576w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/7rnDBBFkhUSkUgr-v_SQA0Ic5_s81IVjN8ECLQOx97E\/rs:fill:768:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYjIyNWEwMTNiOTAxYzlhODQ5ZTg2NDU4NTM5ZWE5YjFlMGQ5NDcwYjZlOTBhZGVmZTAwNmQ2MjFiNzRkNWFiMS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 768w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/NML7jU8UnITH-at4cCeX8GBbq2O49dIOOPEq6Kin5ZI\/rs:fill:992:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYjIyNWEwMTNiOTAxYzlhODQ5ZTg2NDU4NTM5ZWE5YjFlMGQ5NDcwYjZlOTBhZGVmZTAwNmQ2MjFiNzRkNWFiMS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 992w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/xA5eaXM2WPM6YQ1thEwK9GM7UOl3GQYMlAahuJSNSB0\/rs:fill:1200:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYjIyNWEwMTNiOTAxYzlhODQ5ZTg2NDU4NTM5ZWE5YjFlMGQ5NDcwYjZlOTBhZGVmZTAwNmQ2MjFiNzRkNWFiMS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 1200w\" type=\"image\/jpeg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 835px) 100vw, (max-width: 1279px) 830px, 830px\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/b225a013b901c9a849e86458539ea9b1e0d9470b6e90adefe006d621b74d5ab1.png\" alt=\"A woman with her hands on her hips | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">Sophie had always been impulsive, but this was something else entirely.<\/p>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;You thought this was okay?&#8221; I asked.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;It&#8217;s a grand gesture, Oakley!&#8221; she said brightly. &#8220;I think you&#8217;ll thank me one day.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">I had barely noticed my parents standing in the corner of the room until my mom stepped forward. Her voice was soft, pleading.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/pwCQRWkqSHP41rmzYYkVW9QV2JE3lyo4XsPZonkqliM\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vOTI3NTIwODk5NTVmZjE1Y2NkMzQzNGY3NjM5ZjU1NzE0OWYyYjBmMGQ5OWIzNjFlMmIxMzVjMzAyY2MyODkyZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 375w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/CUrjLbVhuCpqdItMRucGWi5vETYp9L9i94MvUEOmjhk\/rs:fill:576:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vOTI3NTIwODk5NTVmZjE1Y2NkMzQzNGY3NjM5ZjU1NzE0OWYyYjBmMGQ5OWIzNjFlMmIxMzVjMzAyY2MyODkyZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 576w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/yVKKwL7vEzrCxZ7Efqh5nkLOB9K3iOuoEWovvOr4Z-c\/rs:fill:768:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vOTI3NTIwODk5NTVmZjE1Y2NkMzQzNGY3NjM5ZjU1NzE0OWYyYjBmMGQ5OWIzNjFlMmIxMzVjMzAyY2MyODkyZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 768w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/W6MwSEgbGmIFvFjW6oZK0yfKQAi23Ja2RYB63A_uRug\/rs:fill:992:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vOTI3NTIwODk5NTVmZjE1Y2NkMzQzNGY3NjM5ZjU1NzE0OWYyYjBmMGQ5OWIzNjFlMmIxMzVjMzAyY2MyODkyZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 992w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/hF_CJM1Df2oAwABOWdsC8N7QukoF2yTmyas-2lnfNj0\/rs:fill:1200:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vOTI3NTIwODk5NTVmZjE1Y2NkMzQzNGY3NjM5ZjU1NzE0OWYyYjBmMGQ5OWIzNjFlMmIxMzVjMzAyY2MyODkyZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 1200w\" type=\"image\/jpeg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 835px) 100vw, (max-width: 1279px) 830px, 830px\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/92752089955ff15ccd3434f7639f557149f2b0f0d99b361e2b135c302cc2892d.png\" alt=\"An older woman standing in a living room | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"Image_title__T6_we\" data-testid=\"image-source\">An older woman standing in a living room | Source: Midjourney<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;Jason explained everything, Oak. He made a mistake, sure, but he&#8217;s trying to make it right. Don&#8217;t be so stubborn, sweetheart. You&#8217;re not getting any younger, and how often does a man who wants to propose come along?&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">I felt the walls close in.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">My humiliation, my anger&#8230; it was all secondary to the suffocating realization that the people I trusted the most in this world were siding with him.<\/p>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/LdTq3k-6SRY6ap1p5Ys56A48GIPqBsVilDNHcHfrW0s\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjQxNjNiOTc3OTRmMDM5YmMwZTU2Nzc4YzlhOGQzYTAzN2EzYjFkMjNhOTBhODIxOGZkZDg0ZmYxZjdiNTlhMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 375w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/6EbHTZtOXDe6mTmd4JxepG2E4A0mI9FdijYnKh891rQ\/rs:fill:576:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjQxNjNiOTc3OTRmMDM5YmMwZTU2Nzc4YzlhOGQzYTAzN2EzYjFkMjNhOTBhODIxOGZkZDg0ZmYxZjdiNTlhMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 576w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/84XSVKeTh46--gfl12pc9XW1AMRKnruVyEYMbiwk6gY\/rs:fill:768:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjQxNjNiOTc3OTRmMDM5YmMwZTU2Nzc4YzlhOGQzYTAzN2EzYjFkMjNhOTBhODIxOGZkZDg0ZmYxZjdiNTlhMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 768w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/VPWrID9aIhq8b8zm4jwQnxUjv2LYQ0YfVr14ibnF9IQ\/rs:fill:992:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjQxNjNiOTc3OTRmMDM5YmMwZTU2Nzc4YzlhOGQzYTAzN2EzYjFkMjNhOTBhODIxOGZkZDg0ZmYxZjdiNTlhMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 992w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/y5Hds7gyaAkmglrXS38Hs-NG2lsiQVhQ8xtRCAoqIeI\/rs:fill:1200:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjQxNjNiOTc3OTRmMDM5YmMwZTU2Nzc4YzlhOGQzYTAzN2EzYjFkMjNhOTBhODIxOGZkZDg0ZmYxZjdiNTlhMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 1200w\" type=\"image\/jpeg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 835px) 100vw, (max-width: 1279px) 830px, 830px\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/64163b97794f039bc0e56778c9a8d3a037a3b1d23a90a8218fdd84ff1f7b59a3.png\" alt=\"An upset woman holding her head | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"Image_title__T6_we\" data-testid=\"image-source\">An upset woman holding her head | Source: Midjourney<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"><i class=\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\">With him.<\/i><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">Just as I turned to leave, Noah walked in carrying the cake box I&#8217;d asked him to bring in. I wasn&#8217;t going to trust myself to carry it with my heels on.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">I had forgotten about Noah. But seeing him made me feel better. He had always been a calming presence for me.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">He paused, his eyes scanning the room, his brows knitting in confusion. Then, his gaze landed on me, tear-streaked and trembling.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/-fy82Sb0FFnM_Xg_82fSr0xV-n2FY5Naef0aALGWNIg\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vOTAwOWZhMDU2MmMyNDhhMDZiNmYzNzE1Mzg5ZTk4MjI3MzE5ZDZmMmFmMjJmNDdhODQ4OGI3Y2RmNWZkMDU5MC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 375w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/EyTrY4PtjJC4KgWWUp4QjVmj1VjQAp_2qXR-DCwFg4g\/rs:fill:576:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vOTAwOWZhMDU2MmMyNDhhMDZiNmYzNzE1Mzg5ZTk4MjI3MzE5ZDZmMmFmMjJmNDdhODQ4OGI3Y2RmNWZkMDU5MC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 576w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/ZGIbhpkxF8D3HnnCA_z3iyXWdc2QoHJ1Z_FNn2Itc6w\/rs:fill:768:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vOTAwOWZhMDU2MmMyNDhhMDZiNmYzNzE1Mzg5ZTk4MjI3MzE5ZDZmMmFmMjJmNDdhODQ4OGI3Y2RmNWZkMDU5MC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 768w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/4im2f2dR-9GnhmwjGWaZdvCRUN-GFYvCrExyDyp2Fvo\/rs:fill:992:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vOTAwOWZhMDU2MmMyNDhhMDZiNmYzNzE1Mzg5ZTk4MjI3MzE5ZDZmMmFmMjJmNDdhODQ4OGI3Y2RmNWZkMDU5MC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 992w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/1flurkMuDfgO_-X_B9w8D0_Y_3cvgajb1QVK2Wk2sjI\/rs:fill:1200:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vOTAwOWZhMDU2MmMyNDhhMDZiNmYzNzE1Mzg5ZTk4MjI3MzE5ZDZmMmFmMjJmNDdhODQ4OGI3Y2RmNWZkMDU5MC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 1200w\" type=\"image\/jpeg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 835px) 100vw, (max-width: 1279px) 830px, 830px\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/9009fa0562c248a06b6f3715389e98227319d6f2af22f47a8488b7cdf5fd0590.png\" alt=\"A man holding a cake box | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"Image_title__T6_we\" data-testid=\"image-source\">A man holding a cake box | Source: Midjourney<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"adv\">\n<div class=\"Ad-Container AdvInTextBuilder_slot-wrapper___Oz3G\">\n<div class=\"AdvTitle_wrap__5d8cN\">\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;What&#8217;s going on?&#8221; he asked, his voice steady but firm.<\/p>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">Jason puffed up his chest like a rooster.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;I&#8217;m proposing to Oakley, Noah. You don&#8217;t have an issue with that, do you?&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">Noah&#8217;s eyes darted to me, and then back to Jason.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/2BnG5XYPJT_ez1go9vOgFEo4Ql1nNtfigUlJ_VWuobQ\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTMwYTNjZWNhZDEzZDhlNjJmZjNmZmEzMjg5MTdlZDJiZWJkMTBiNjliYmJmYmIwMDc2MWNkNDBmMzk0NmUzZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 375w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/PoKLCAx0c1sq6XCFNcs5u8NvSA4U5g-khmTUyvydMEA\/rs:fill:576:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTMwYTNjZWNhZDEzZDhlNjJmZjNmZmEzMjg5MTdlZDJiZWJkMTBiNjliYmJmYmIwMDc2MWNkNDBmMzk0NmUzZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 576w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/fojWfWxMnVJalm-fMV591WxkLPnMJ72fZxF6QjJf8Ck\/rs:fill:768:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTMwYTNjZWNhZDEzZDhlNjJmZjNmZmEzMjg5MTdlZDJiZWJkMTBiNjliYmJmYmIwMDc2MWNkNDBmMzk0NmUzZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 768w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/6ALckSLpvtPqp4vws7izb438FRpWU6kNWoAgrVIZu_E\/rs:fill:992:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTMwYTNjZWNhZDEzZDhlNjJmZjNmZmEzMjg5MTdlZDJiZWJkMTBiNjliYmJmYmIwMDc2MWNkNDBmMzk0NmUzZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 992w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/TJWTDKUkHL_KaNvDaJ39plBKpVV2Lr60azqTH1bbUcY\/rs:fill:1200:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTMwYTNjZWNhZDEzZDhlNjJmZjNmZmEzMjg5MTdlZDJiZWJkMTBiNjliYmJmYmIwMDc2MWNkNDBmMzk0NmUzZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 1200w\" type=\"image\/jpeg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 835px) 100vw, (max-width: 1279px) 830px, 830px\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/a30a3cecad13d8e62ff3ffa328917ed2bebd10b69bbbfbb00761cd40f3946e3d.png\" alt=\"A man standing with his hands in his pockets | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"Image_title__T6_we\" data-testid=\"image-source\">A man standing with his hands in his pockets | Source: Midjourney<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;Do you want this?&#8221; he asked, his voice softer now.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">I shook my head, unable to speak through the lump in my throat.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;Then let&#8217;s go,&#8221; Noah said without hesitation.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">He grabbed my hand and pulled me toward the door. The cool night air hit my face like a lifeline as we stepped outside.<\/p>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/225541bbf5edce75ae085b58470e0bc848fdea2ca447c074d79cbb975d280d22.png\" alt=\"A woman standing outside | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"Image_title__T6_we\" data-testid=\"image-source\">A woman standing outside | Source: Midjourney<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">We drove in silence for a while, my thoughts a tangled mess of rage and betrayal. Finally, I told Noah everything. I expected him to offer advice or a quick solution, but he didn&#8217;t. Instead, he just listened.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">Noah had been around for years, and while I told him about most things in our friendship, I wasn&#8217;t always open about talking about Jason.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">Over the following months, our relationship became more intimate. Noah became a rock of sorts. He never pushed, never pried; he simply was. And when the time was right, our friendship deepened into something more.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/rxko5GDHjnQdeC5BWndbuyty102HYLIi8tYwF-vVzWI\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZTY1NTZjOGYzZDU2MzQxZDk1MGM1NGZkMGI3MzkwOWE4MmRmMmFjMjAyZDRiODYyZWU0OThmZmFhOGQ3YmFhMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 375w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/xis1gxSXvVFjeCHDV4dkaxIZn-UPHcQScDwNpDcB4aI\/rs:fill:576:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZTY1NTZjOGYzZDU2MzQxZDk1MGM1NGZkMGI3MzkwOWE4MmRmMmFjMjAyZDRiODYyZWU0OThmZmFhOGQ3YmFhMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 576w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/mMz9xDHhnNyrnO4DBW1-d6fhmBENGK34qMAUN-NsIqQ\/rs:fill:768:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZTY1NTZjOGYzZDU2MzQxZDk1MGM1NGZkMGI3MzkwOWE4MmRmMmFjMjAyZDRiODYyZWU0OThmZmFhOGQ3YmFhMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 768w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/S3Adkth0w6Ex0Fs2zZCBY-YaGsvOneoR25k-HQV-U9E\/rs:fill:992:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZTY1NTZjOGYzZDU2MzQxZDk1MGM1NGZkMGI3MzkwOWE4MmRmMmFjMjAyZDRiODYyZWU0OThmZmFhOGQ3YmFhMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 992w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/qSkhrNqKNUqWXVyZLu0I2krdbAwK1yxy8IaqX-xi-BM\/rs:fill:1200:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZTY1NTZjOGYzZDU2MzQxZDk1MGM1NGZkMGI3MzkwOWE4MmRmMmFjMjAyZDRiODYyZWU0OThmZmFhOGQ3YmFhMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 1200w\" type=\"image\/jpeg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 835px) 100vw, (max-width: 1279px) 830px, 830px\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/e6556c8f3d56341d950c54fd0b73909a82df2ac202d4b862ee498ffaa8d7baa3.png\" alt=\"A man driving a car | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"Image_title__T6_we\" data-testid=\"image-source\">A man driving a car | Source: Midjourney<\/p>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">It started out as a dinner from a drive-thru and turned into a romantic picnic in a parking lot. Noah reminded me that love wasn&#8217;t supposed to hurt or feel like an uphill battle.<\/p>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"><i class=\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\">As for Sophie?<\/i><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">It had been months since that night, months of cutting Sophie out of my life, deleting her texts without reading them, and dodging her calls. I thought I&#8217;d moved on, that I&#8217;d buried the hurt.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">Then, one chilly afternoon in early spring, she showed up at the caf\u00e9 where I was meeting Noah.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/9xZvJ5XzKPhA9pLunXoNvNNV24cwOXw0wd0QuRHTtoM\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYzA4ZjNmMzY3MzIwOGIwZmNkYzE1MWMyZTRjNzBhYzQ4ZGM5MjgzNGJlZDRkZGE2MjI0MTE1NDY3ZjlmMWIzYy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 375w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/NVwtkkEJQktTt3akRvEH71VfKfI9hd70JIRYm4SzjxM\/rs:fill:576:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYzA4ZjNmMzY3MzIwOGIwZmNkYzE1MWMyZTRjNzBhYzQ4ZGM5MjgzNGJlZDRkZGE2MjI0MTE1NDY3ZjlmMWIzYy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 576w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/BGAHeY7v9tk6klcVQVlHvL-yhaZrihQ1AzKwrERP6jo\/rs:fill:768:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYzA4ZjNmMzY3MzIwOGIwZmNkYzE1MWMyZTRjNzBhYzQ4ZGM5MjgzNGJlZDRkZGE2MjI0MTE1NDY3ZjlmMWIzYy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 768w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/mi6LPOWe5gWerMaEEC7HJIf_5QH0Ux6QtV8j2cFpOJY\/rs:fill:992:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYzA4ZjNmMzY3MzIwOGIwZmNkYzE1MWMyZTRjNzBhYzQ4ZGM5MjgzNGJlZDRkZGE2MjI0MTE1NDY3ZjlmMWIzYy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 992w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/UtvKm2_DbWqAxw5ixhKTwldpJhVafpF105Mm-ICxLJY\/rs:fill:1200:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYzA4ZjNmMzY3MzIwOGIwZmNkYzE1MWMyZTRjNzBhYzQ4ZGM5MjgzNGJlZDRkZGE2MjI0MTE1NDY3ZjlmMWIzYy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 1200w\" type=\"image\/jpeg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 835px) 100vw, (max-width: 1279px) 830px, 830px\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/c08f3f3673208b0fcdc151c2e4c70ac48dc92834bed4dda6224115467f9f1b3c.png\" alt=\"The interior of a coffee shop | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"Image_title__T6_we\" data-testid=\"image-source\">The interior of a coffee shop | Source: Midjourney<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">The bell above the door jingled as she stepped inside, her bright smile faltering slightly when she saw me.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">I froze, mid-sip of my latte.<\/p>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">Sophie approached with hesitant steps, her voice too bright.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;Oakley! I was hoping I&#8217;d run into you!&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">I didn&#8217;t return her smile.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/TOUjgzgiFss82ls_SeDA2yfpUAvMQuyPoWay3MNdJM0\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYjU1YjRhNjc3NTgwYWU4NDMxYWY3M2VhMTg5Y2EyZmU3MzQwMWIxY2JjMmM1MzQ4ODQyOTlhY2QzMGVjMjY4OC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 375w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/t4jvp4R0IAOY-WbuVDohnn7io0cmbEfvh_nvMM4KV-c\/rs:fill:576:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYjU1YjRhNjc3NTgwYWU4NDMxYWY3M2VhMTg5Y2EyZmU3MzQwMWIxY2JjMmM1MzQ4ODQyOTlhY2QzMGVjMjY4OC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 576w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/ZkcED3zZH55cjWdnd31nNiywDdDKZBSN65vqfI3C9xo\/rs:fill:768:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYjU1YjRhNjc3NTgwYWU4NDMxYWY3M2VhMTg5Y2EyZmU3MzQwMWIxY2JjMmM1MzQ4ODQyOTlhY2QzMGVjMjY4OC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 768w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/04GY9yf4KUNgNjY4DXnZ2kosHJLuQ941tQJLA4fP8H8\/rs:fill:992:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYjU1YjRhNjc3NTgwYWU4NDMxYWY3M2VhMTg5Y2EyZmU3MzQwMWIxY2JjMmM1MzQ4ODQyOTlhY2QzMGVjMjY4OC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 992w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/QZtmaKHfS_qHJvuWjWwUTU8Dt6sTmAJQmy4qpjgO1ko\/rs:fill:1200:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYjU1YjRhNjc3NTgwYWU4NDMxYWY3M2VhMTg5Y2EyZmU3MzQwMWIxY2JjMmM1MzQ4ODQyOTlhY2QzMGVjMjY4OC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 1200w\" type=\"image\/jpeg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 835px) 100vw, (max-width: 1279px) 830px, 830px\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/b55b4a677580ae8431af73ea189ca2fe73401b1cbc2c534884299acd30ec2688.png\" alt=\"A woman in a coffee shop | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"Image_title__T6_we\" data-testid=\"image-source\">A woman in a coffee shop | Source: Midjourney<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;What do you want, Sophie?&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">Her expression flickered. Disappointment? Irritation? But she quickly covered it with the kind of grin that used to fool me.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;I just want to talk. Can we, um, can I sit?&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">I nodded.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;I&#8217;ve missed you,&#8221; she began, her voice soft as she slid into the chair. &#8220;I know you&#8217;re mad, but I hate how things ended. I just want to explain.&#8221;<\/p>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/38c26de97fa882575de2671588be6eef40d2236d6289f3e64967353b03c64a2e.png\" alt=\"A woman sitting in a coffee shop | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"Image_title__T6_we\" data-testid=\"image-source\">A woman sitting in a coffee shop | Source: Midjourney<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;Explain what, Sophie? That you thought it was a good idea to ambush me with the guy who destroyed me? That you cared so little about my feelings you turned my pain into some romantic gesture for Jason?&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">She flinched but held her ground.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;It wasn&#8217;t like that,&#8221; she said quickly. &#8220;I was trying to help you. You and Jason&#8230; there was so much love there, Oakley. I just thought if he could show you he was serious, you&#8217;d see it too.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;Serious? He broke me, and you knew that.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/x5P-d6RPnhPR8Cqb1d0PQH6XPHVDuZHnixlTQ5dsTj4\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZjViMzQxMzllMmQwMTk1YTk4NTRhNWRhN2ZjNDJjM2U0NzUwYmEzNWJiNzk2MjNlMWI0MDJiNDU2ZDY2NDhiNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 375w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/u6jeQLQuJm3GpHbLFAtA6YUxmxp332u6MiQxnXcPvm8\/rs:fill:576:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZjViMzQxMzllMmQwMTk1YTk4NTRhNWRhN2ZjNDJjM2U0NzUwYmEzNWJiNzk2MjNlMWI0MDJiNDU2ZDY2NDhiNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 576w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/XWFSt9l227Ar5J3mWS0DvqYuraj5kdmjywJV9mBCzSs\/rs:fill:768:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZjViMzQxMzllMmQwMTk1YTk4NTRhNWRhN2ZjNDJjM2U0NzUwYmEzNWJiNzk2MjNlMWI0MDJiNDU2ZDY2NDhiNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 768w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/dzHYC5h30Or9OOVVPD_vhMtuzEpl9KH38XQ98pKZZsQ\/rs:fill:992:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZjViMzQxMzllMmQwMTk1YTk4NTRhNWRhN2ZjNDJjM2U0NzUwYmEzNWJiNzk2MjNlMWI0MDJiNDU2ZDY2NDhiNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 992w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/BqB6NxU27ryQGHjFHF6CQkcxjVKvIkOlBGghHuS75RY\/rs:fill:1200:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZjViMzQxMzllMmQwMTk1YTk4NTRhNWRhN2ZjNDJjM2U0NzUwYmEzNWJiNzk2MjNlMWI0MDJiNDU2ZDY2NDhiNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 1200w\" type=\"image\/jpeg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 835px) 100vw, (max-width: 1279px) 830px, 830px\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/f5b34139e2d0195a9854a5da7fc42c3e4750ba35bb79623e1b402b456d6648b7.png\" alt=\"A woman holding her head | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"Image_title__T6_we\" data-testid=\"image-source\">A woman holding her head | Source: Midjourney<\/p>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">People change!&#8221; she exclaimed. &#8220;He told me he regretted it, that he wanted to make things right. Isn&#8217;t that what everyone wants? To be forgiven?&#8221;<\/p>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">I shook my head.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;I thought you&#8217;d be happy! You used to love him, Oakley! How was I supposed to know you&#8217;d react like that?&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">My jaw dropped.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/mLXNARlFcnhXuuqjWlQkpKChTB9DkBLMb-s34N3X5mg\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNmU0ZmVlOTRmODhiYzE0ZDI5MjkwNzQxYWZmOWRiNWFhZjkxZTYzNGQzZjQxZDUxNDhmYzQyMTMyNTYyYWM0MC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 375w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/sDVg9FZ_E_Iokxh8hBWMgbhkrOW0wIjp0e990zR3IlE\/rs:fill:576:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNmU0ZmVlOTRmODhiYzE0ZDI5MjkwNzQxYWZmOWRiNWFhZjkxZTYzNGQzZjQxZDUxNDhmYzQyMTMyNTYyYWM0MC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 576w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/shYuTsItjnZ54cId23fKIiay_99t5pSPLgWYICk7YXs\/rs:fill:768:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNmU0ZmVlOTRmODhiYzE0ZDI5MjkwNzQxYWZmOWRiNWFhZjkxZTYzNGQzZjQxZDUxNDhmYzQyMTMyNTYyYWM0MC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 768w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/an_Q7OEG0i8ytuggJydHCGOXuKv80fGw3EVgYOXKVcQ\/rs:fill:992:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNmU0ZmVlOTRmODhiYzE0ZDI5MjkwNzQxYWZmOWRiNWFhZjkxZTYzNGQzZjQxZDUxNDhmYzQyMTMyNTYyYWM0MC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 992w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/MvLl9GJUBDRI7ylfRFgolosNxH4O6vvTgV9aMtURV3o\/rs:fill:1200:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNmU0ZmVlOTRmODhiYzE0ZDI5MjkwNzQxYWZmOWRiNWFhZjkxZTYzNGQzZjQxZDUxNDhmYzQyMTMyNTYyYWM0MC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 1200w\" type=\"image\/jpeg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 835px) 100vw, (max-width: 1279px) 830px, 830px\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/6e4fee94f88bc14d29290741aff9db5aaf91e634d3f41d5148fc42132562ac40.png\" alt=\"An upset woman sitting in a coffee shop | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"Image_title__T6_we\" data-testid=\"image-source\">An upset woman sitting in a coffee shop | Source: Midjourney<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;React like that? You mean like a normal person who doesn&#8217;t want to be blindsided by their abusive ex in front of their family and friends?&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;You&#8217;re blowing this out of proportion, Oakley. Like you always do. I wanted you to be happy like me.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"adv\">\n<div class=\"AdvTitle_wrap__5d8cN\">\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">I stared at her, the full weight of her words hitting me.<\/p>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;No, you were trying to force me into the life you thought I should want. You&#8217;ve never cared about what I actually feel, Sophie. It&#8217;s always been about you.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/oTPpyPjzDE1y3hrrGRTJ2S8PfWT6zKZWz-5BuSyPFfQ\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMjFkYjg4NGE0YWJmMTNhZTlhMmIwNmQzOWE4OTZlOTA1YWE0N2NhYjRmNGY0NWYzYWI2YmZlOTEyZmFiNDU0NC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 375w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/GhuUydoGeWfcK-UnXgjzf0LgtUqQEc2uTw6TkcD7tF8\/rs:fill:576:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMjFkYjg4NGE0YWJmMTNhZTlhMmIwNmQzOWE4OTZlOTA1YWE0N2NhYjRmNGY0NWYzYWI2YmZlOTEyZmFiNDU0NC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 576w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/PdqcnQL1zqKBtQXZPzsqi1cuqPmuz0eolW4j0f3EC3E\/rs:fill:768:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMjFkYjg4NGE0YWJmMTNhZTlhMmIwNmQzOWE4OTZlOTA1YWE0N2NhYjRmNGY0NWYzYWI2YmZlOTEyZmFiNDU0NC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 768w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/0o_3uAO-8wo0Q_N4h35sia5r1etKaoqTyjnIZwfad6Q\/rs:fill:992:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMjFkYjg4NGE0YWJmMTNhZTlhMmIwNmQzOWE4OTZlOTA1YWE0N2NhYjRmNGY0NWYzYWI2YmZlOTEyZmFiNDU0NC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 992w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/OOff39ooz1M5GGWiLReTP-O8UunDtpbCWWTY1KH4fxQ\/rs:fill:1200:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMjFkYjg4NGE0YWJmMTNhZTlhMmIwNmQzOWE4OTZlOTA1YWE0N2NhYjRmNGY0NWYzYWI2YmZlOTEyZmFiNDU0NC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 1200w\" type=\"image\/jpeg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 835px) 100vw, (max-width: 1279px) 830px, 830px\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/21db884a4abf13ae9a2b06d39a896e905aa47cab4f4f45f3ab6bfe912fab4544.png\" alt=\"An upset woman in a coffee shop | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"Image_title__T6_we\" data-testid=\"image-source\">An upset woman in a coffee shop | Source: Midjourney<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;That&#8217;s not true,&#8221; she said.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;It is. Now, please leave,&#8221; I said.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">Just then, the bells above the door jingled again, and Noah walked in, beaming.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/oyAd3iZ1fi2wztMhOMFR9qJDZ1qLmiBTyxl-OLQgmr0\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTJhMDA2NGM4YTkxNGMwNDI2OGU5NmFkNTRjNTNiZTY3YjVjNGRlNzgxNzNiY2NkZDQ1MDlmYTlmMjhiOWE5Mi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 375w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/MgP_asfIK3uQ8voSJ_QK89ajyN8FuVwfidYaNYuIvC8\/rs:fill:576:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTJhMDA2NGM4YTkxNGMwNDI2OGU5NmFkNTRjNTNiZTY3YjVjNGRlNzgxNzNiY2NkZDQ1MDlmYTlmMjhiOWE5Mi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 576w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/eWP6Yiw7EPZ6LhjLK8wPeMeV5AVHuz6OZS07pR6D_dA\/rs:fill:768:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTJhMDA2NGM4YTkxNGMwNDI2OGU5NmFkNTRjNTNiZTY3YjVjNGRlNzgxNzNiY2NkZDQ1MDlmYTlmMjhiOWE5Mi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 768w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/SUfCt3sPjpI7wm6MWlqL1gsbwbc4twugJ_VZFRwpwYc\/rs:fill:992:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTJhMDA2NGM4YTkxNGMwNDI2OGU5NmFkNTRjNTNiZTY3YjVjNGRlNzgxNzNiY2NkZDQ1MDlmYTlmMjhiOWE5Mi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 992w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/YkMJ3mvuK2mW9aAZ6yBiaHkuHdZeJmEVIQcw--404Eg\/rs:fill:1200:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTJhMDA2NGM4YTkxNGMwNDI2OGU5NmFkNTRjNTNiZTY3YjVjNGRlNzgxNzNiY2NkZDQ1MDlmYTlmMjhiOWE5Mi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 1200w\" type=\"image\/jpeg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 835px) 100vw, (max-width: 1279px) 830px, 830px\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/a2a0064c8a914c04268e96ad54c53be67b5c4de78173bccdd4509fa9f28b9a92.png\" alt=\"Bells hanging in a coffee shop | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"Image_title__T6_we\" data-testid=\"image-source\">Bells hanging in a coffee shop | Source: Midjourney<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"adv\">\n<div class=\"AdvTitle_wrap__5d8cN\">\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;That&#8217;s my cue to leave,&#8221; Sophie huffed.<\/p>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;I assume that wasn&#8217;t an apology, was it?&#8221; Noah asked.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p class=\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\">&#8220;No,&#8221; I said with a small, bitter laugh. &#8220;But that&#8217;s okay. I don&#8217;t need her apology anymore.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\">\n<div class=\"Image_container__oHMMQ\">\n<div class=\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/qCBWi155txGyu4G45e9YQodVZ3LYWTTYSH8mL_MqO-A\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYjFiN2FiMTkzOTE1MmRkNDcwYjZlOGJhYjUxZWYwY2VhMmM1ODFkYjBkNTVmZDBjNjU2Zjc5MDcwYWY4OTZhZS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 375w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/3M-EDJQWxGaA7eeMr4P5DvJwOTw-rexR7JC9H3A8I3k\/rs:fill:576:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYjFiN2FiMTkzOTE1MmRkNDcwYjZlOGJhYjUxZWYwY2VhMmM1ODFkYjBkNTVmZDBjNjU2Zjc5MDcwYWY4OTZhZS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 576w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/FZucEhcaX3Az9kuxjuHU0zD5p1RYU0KVWqDNUCKPFns\/rs:fill:768:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYjFiN2FiMTkzOTE1MmRkNDcwYjZlOGJhYjUxZWYwY2VhMmM1ODFkYjBkNTVmZDBjNjU2Zjc5MDcwYWY4OTZhZS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 768w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/yr1xUy720qrx7ybBJEUYkpDct33puYXLV0OECqEobWE\/rs:fill:992:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYjFiN2FiMTkzOTE1MmRkNDcwYjZlOGJhYjUxZWYwY2VhMmM1ODFkYjBkNTVmZDBjNjU2Zjc5MDcwYWY4OTZhZS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 992w,https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/VTtgtbU4uWz9GFSdP3qJxaNhlTATh4oPhR9wcUg3pyg\/rs:fill:1200:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYjFiN2FiMTkzOTE1MmRkNDcwYjZlOGJhYjUxZWYwY2VhMmM1ODFkYjBkNTVmZDBjNjU2Zjc5MDcwYWY4OTZhZS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg 1200w\" type=\"image\/jpeg\" sizes=\"(max-width: 835px) 100vw, (max-width: 1279px) 830px, 830px\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"Image_image__11E9V Image_post-image__qnTn0\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.thecelebritist.com\/b1b7ab1939152dd470b6e8bab51ef0cea2c581db0d55fd0c656f79070af896ae.png\" alt=\"A woman walking away | Source: Midjourney\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" \/><\/picture><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"Image_title__T6_we\" data-testid=\"image-source\">A woman walking away | Source: Midjourney<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>When Oakley&#8217;s best friend Sophie ropes her into planning an engagement party, she&#8217;s happy to help, until the event turns into a nightmarish betrayal. Confronted by her cheating ex in a public proposal orchestrated by Sophie, Oakley is forced to question loyalty, love, and her own worth. Friendships are complicated things. 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