79 Beth’s contract 

        Alexandra sat across from Beth at the dining table, the sunlight filtering through the large windows and casting a warm glow over the table.  The clinking of cutlery and soft chatter filled the air as they caught up on each other's lives.  Her heart had slowly mended since her break up with Pierce, but the idea of set up with someone new made her uneasy. Beth, always the enthusiastic and well-meaning friend, leaned forward, a mischievous glint in her eyes.  "Alexandra, I've met someone you simply have to meet. Trust me, he's the one you've been waiting for since Pierce."  This wasn’t the first time she was trying something like that, after all it was she who introduced her to Pierce. Where did she even get these men from?  Alexandra  wondered.  Her eyebrows furrowed, skepticism etched on her face. "Beth, I appreciate your concern, but I'm not sure about being set up. I'd rather let fate take its course." Beth’s face softened, and she reached across the t