CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND FOURTEEN - When Gossip Turns Into Trouble

As autumn progressed, Nia, Laura, and Evan fell into a comfortable routine of Friday night dinners at each other's apartments. The crisp air and changing leaves outside created a cozy atmosphere that encouraged intimacy and conversation. One such evening found them gathered at Laura's place, the scent of homemade lasagna filling the air. The warm glow of candles cast flickering shadows on the walls as they sat around the small dining table, wine glasses in hand. Laura took a deep breath, her fingers tracing the stem of her glass. "I think it's time I told you about Mrs. Baines," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. Nia and Evan exchanged glances, sensing the weight of the moment. They had both noticed the tension between Laura and the older woman but had refrained from prying. "It's not just about me," Laura continued, her eyes fixed on the tablecloth. "It's a feud that's been going on for generations. Started with our grandparents over some property dispute." Evan leaned f