Chapter 12

IRENE'S POV News about the wedding fiasco became the news of the day quickly as it spread through the community faster. It wouldn't be an overstatement to say that the news spread faster than lighting. It wasn't long before Carter and Emma arrived at my new apartment, eager to hear all the details and offer their support. I was sure that they were really happy for what I did. One reason they would forever be my friends. Carter immediately started helping me tidy up. "You did well with this place, Irene," he said, examining the cozy living room. "It’s got a good vibe." Emma, on the other hand, was more focused on getting the gossip. She perched on my couch, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "So, spill it, Irene. How did your meeting with Leon go last night?" I busied myself with organizing some books on a shelf, trying to avoid their inquisitive gazes. "It was nice," I said, hoping to sound nonchalant. "We talked about a lot of things." Carter paused his tidying to look at me. "Nice? T