SOULMATES FOREVER

a care getting dressed, picking out a red dress that accentuated her curves and made her feel beautiful. She put on her makeup, taking extra time with her eyeshadow and lipstick, and then

Sarah. What are you doing here?" asked Gloria, her heart racing. "I was in the neighborhood and thought I'd stop by. Can I come in?" asked Sarah, her voice shaking. Gloria nodded, stepping aside to let her in. Sarah followed her into the kitchen, and they both sat at the table. Gloria busied herself with putting out some snacks and making a pot of tea. The kitchen was cozy, with warm tones and a large window that looked out over the backyard. There were herbs growing in pots on the window sill, and the air smelled of cinnamon and ginger. The oven was warm, and the kitchen was filled with the sounds of pots and pans clanging and the tea kettle whistling. Sarah looked around, taking in the cozy atmosphere. "This is a nice setup," she said, it was her first time visiting since Gloria's new set of kitchen furnitures arrived. "It feels very homey." Gloria smiled. "So," Sarah began, "how's work been going?" Gloria let out a long sigh. "Work's been pretty stressful lately. I've been putting in long hours, and it's taking a toll on my personal life." Sarah nodded sympathetically. "I hear you. It can be tough to balance work and life sometimes. What about your love life? Any new developments?" Gloria blushed slightly. "We're not about to talk about James". Gloria cleared her throat. "How's Steve? Are the two of you still together?" Sarah's face broke into a wide smile. "Steve and I are doing great! We're talking about moving in together." Gloria's eyes widened. "Wow, that's quite the step! Are you sure you're ready for that?" Sarah nodded. "I think we're both ready. We've been dating for over a year now, and it just feels like the next logical step." Gloria felt a pang of envy. She wanted that kind of stability in her own life. Gloria's heart leapt as she heard the doorbell ring. Could it be? She ran to the door and opened it. Sure enough, there was a courier standing there with a large envelope in hand. "Is this Gloria Johnson?" he asked. She nodded excitedly. "Yes, that's me!" The courier handed her the envelope. "This is for you. Have a nice day!" he said, and then he was off. Gloria closed the door and stared at the envelope. Her hands were shaking as she tore it open. Inside the envelope was a letter. Gloria unfolded it,