The Last Goodbye

Chapter 13: The Last Goodbye

They met one final time, by accident.

Nicole had been sitting on the school steps when Erica walked by. Their eyes met, and for a second, it felt like old times.

But then reality hit.

"We're really doing this, huh?" Nicole murmured.

Erica nodded. "Yeah."

Nicole exhaled. "I just want you to know… I never meant to hurt you."

"I know," Erica whispered.

Silence stretched between them.

Then, Nicole smiled—small, sad. "I hope you find happiness, Erica."

And for the first time, Erica smiled back. "I hope you do too."

Then she walked away.

And this time, Nicole didn't stop her.