Echoes of Three Souls

Chapter 4: Whispers of Nerves

Maeve POV

Friday came quicker than I expected, which was odd. Maybe because I'd been dreading Devin's housewarming party all week. She had taken the day off to take Olive to her five-year checkup—my little "Olive bug" was starting kindergarten in the fall—and to get things ready for the party. At least I didn't have Devin texting me all day, gently nudging me to come, which gave me a little peace.

Now, though, I was curled up in bed after work, staring at my phone, trying to come up with a good reason to skip. I had the messaging app open, my fingers hesitating over the screen. Would Devin really mind if I didn't show up? She'd probably understand if I just said I wasn't feeling well. But then I thought about all the times she and her family had been there for me—especially when I'd needed them most. I couldn't just make up an excuse and let her down like that. The least I could do was make an appearance. Besides, it wasn't like I wouldn't enjoy seeing her. She always knew how to make me feel better.

With a small sigh, I tossed my phone onto the bed and began picking at my nail beds, my familiar anxious habit kicking in. Maybe it wouldn't be so bad? I checked the time. It was almost 6 p.m. If I didn't leave soon, I'd be late. So, I pulled myself up, put on a little lip gloss, fluffed my hair, and picked out something nice—a white midi dress with little yellow flowers and a striped cardigan. It felt like a happy outfit. I added my pink ballet flats, kissed the top of Archie's head, and whispered, "Wish me luck, Arch."

The drive to Devin's new house didn't take long—too short, really. I barely had time to steady my nerves before I was pulling into her driveway. The house was beautiful, much bigger than their old place. I knew James had money, but this was... grand. As I drove down the winding driveway, I noticed all the cars already parked outside. Definitely more people than Devin had mentioned. My stomach fluttered. What if I didn't know anyone else there? Would I stick out?

"It's now or never," I whispered to myself, taking a deep breath. I grabbed the gift bag from the passenger seat and slowly made my way to the front door. Even the door was beautiful—ornate, heavy wood that felt too grand to touch. My stomach churned as I stared at the intricate knocker. It took me a moment to gather the courage, but I finally reached out, my hand trembling slightly, and knocked gently.

Within seconds, the door flew open, revealing Devin with her usual burst of energy.

"Evie!" she squealed, pulling me into a tight hug before I even had a chance to breathe. "I'm so glad you made it!"

Well, so much for staying under the radar. She practically shouted my name, and I could feel the weight of a dozen pairs of eyes turning toward us. My face immediately flushed, the familiar heat creeping up my neck.

"Hi, Devy," I murmured, my voice barely above a whisper as I tried to compose myself. "Thanks for inviting me. The place is... it's stunning."

Devin beamed, tugging me inside. "Thanks, babe! Honestly, I didn't think you'd come. I mean, I hoped, but I know how hard these things can be for you. It really means the world to me that you're here."

Her words were so warm and sincere, and I felt a pang of guilt for almost bailing. "After everything you and James have done for me... showing up is the least I could do."

Almost as if on cue, James appeared from around the corner, grinning as he wrapped his arm around Devin and kissed the top of her head. The way they were together, so effortless and loving, always made me smile, even if it also stirred that bittersweet ache in my chest. I couldn't help but wonder if I'd ever find that kind of love.

"Maeve!" James greeted me, his eyes twinkling as he gave me a friendly nod. "Devs didn't guilt-trip you into coming, did she?"

He winked, and I couldn't help but laugh. The first time I'd met James, his size and tattoos had intimidated me, but I quickly realized he was more teddy bear than tough guy. Over time, he'd become like an older brother to me, just as Devin had become like a sister.