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I paused. “What do you mean?”

She shrugged. “I was hoping to celebrate this weekend. But since my parents are on their way back from the airport…”

Michael paused. “You got in somewhere, didn’t you?”

Allison smiled softly. “I got into UCLA. My first pick. I just got the acceptance letter a couple days ago. I’m officially in their architecture program.”

“Oh. My. Gosh!”

I squealed with delight as I rushed toward my best friend. I picked her up, swinging her around as laughter fell from her lips. Michael pulled her away from me and hugged her close. The two of them shared a long embrace as I watched, smiling from ear to ear. I walked up behind Allison and rubbed her back. Michael tucked her head underneath his chin while he held her close.

And for a split second, I was jealous of the relationship blooming between them.

Michael murmured. “I’m so proud of you.”

I smiled. “So am I, Allison. Really.”

She sighed. “That really takes a load off my shoulders, you know?”

“So what does that mean fo