CHAPTER FIFTY-FIVE - WHEN THE PAST RETURNS TO HAUNT

  Nia sighed. "My best friend just lost her job unexpectedly. She's in a really bad place, and I need to be there for her." Mr. Harlow's voice softened. "Say no more. Take care of your friend. I'll see you tomorrow." Grateful for his understanding, Nia thanked him and hung up. She quickly packed a bag with comfort essentials – ice cream, tissues, Maria's favorite snacks – and headed out. When Maria opened her apartment door, her eyes were red and puffy, her hair a disheveled mess. Wordlessly, Nia pulled her into a tight hug. Maria crumpled against her, fresh tears soaking Nia's shoulder. "Come on," Nia said gently, guiding Maria back inside. "Let's get comfy." Soon, they were both in pajamas, curled up on Maria's worn couch. Nia had put on an old episode of "Friends," the familiar banter a soothing background noise. As they spooned ice cream straight from the container, Nia coaxed Maria into talking about what had happened. "I just feel so... worthless," Maria admitted, her voic