Unspoken Goals

Free

March 22nd

The bar was already alive when Sophie and Abigail pushed through the doors — neon lights flickering across the crowd, bass thrumming low enough to feel in their ribs, laughter spilling over the pulse of the music.

They spotted their friends right away. Emily was leaned halfway over the table, gesturing wildly as she told a story that had Sully half-choking on his drink — probably because it was about him — while Marco was doubled over laughing beside them.

Even from across the room, Abigail's chest warmed. There she was. Juliette. That easy, familiar grin lighting up her face — the one that always managed to pull Abigail in like gravity itself.

She hadn't seen her in a few hours, after spending the day out of town with Sophie, but the distance had somehow felt longer.

"Look who finally showed up!" Emily shouted when she spotted them, waving them over.

Sophie grinned, heading straight for Marco, who opened his arms dramatically. "About time!" he said before pulling her into a hug.

Juliette was already standing when Abigail reached her, that dimpled smile curving her lips — the one that always felt like home. Before Abigail could say a word, Juliette's arms were around her.

Abigail melted instantly, her own arms sliding around Juliette's waist. Juliette smelled like citrus and the faintest trace of her shampoo, the same scent that now lingered on Abigail's pillow most nights.

"I missed you," Juliette murmured against her hair.

Abigail smiled, the sound of the bar fading for a moment. "I missed you too."

Juliette pressed a soft kiss to her cheek, and Abigail's heart stuttered.

"Alright, wrap it up, lovebirds," Sully teased. "You've only been apart a few hours."

Juliette shot him a glare, but Marco jumped in immediately. "Don't start, man. You were practically whining when Emily was busy last weekend."

"Alright, alright," Sully grumbled, trying not to smile.

"No, please," Emily said, leaning into Sully's side. "I want details."

"There are no details," Sully said, shooting Marco a look that made the rest of the table laugh.

Abigail's laughter mingled with Juliette's, that easy rhythm between them settling right back into place.

"How was your day?" Juliette asked softly, her fingers tracing idle circles on Abigail's waist.

"It was good," Abigail said with a quiet smile. "It's nice being on good terms with Soph again. I can't believe I let fear ruin so many relationships for... nothing."

Juliette's touch stilled, then her thumb brushed tenderly along Abigail's cheek. "Hey. Don't do that. You've come so far — that's what matters now."

"I know." Abigail's smile turned brighter, surer. "It's just nice not being afraid anymore."

And it was.

It had only been a few weeks since she and Juliette had found their way back to each other, but it already felt like the world had shifted — lighter, warmer. There was no hiding anymore. Everyone knew, and instead of judgment, there was laughter, support, and belonging.

Juliette leaned in, her lips brushing Abigail's temple. "I'm proud of you."

Abigail looked up, eyes soft. "For what?"

"For finally choosing what makes you happy."

Abigail's chest tightened with affection. "That would be you."