"You know, I've always envied you," Lila suddenly said.
I was a little surprised. "Envy me? Envy the mess that is my life?"
She shook her head. "No, I envy your courage. You're so capable. That's why it pissed me off when you gave so much to that idiot, Julian, and got nothing in return."
She went on and on, ranting passionately. The more I listened, the more I couldn't help but laugh.
"Let's not bring up the past, okay?" I took a sip of red wine. "Right now, I just want to find a good job, make a lot of money, and then…"
"And then marry a great husband and have an adorable kid?" Lila finished my sentence.
That was the dream for most women. It had been my dream once too.
"Not anymore," I said. "I'd rather rely on myself than depend on a man. Besides, I can't just leave my mom behind."
Her eyes lit up instantly. "Now that's what I'm talking about! That's the right mindset! Men are the most unreliable creatures on this planet."
We talked about all sorts of things, and before we knew it, night had fallen.
"Time flies." I sighed. "I should head back."
"I'll drive you home," Lila offered.
"No need. I can just grab a cab."
"No way. It's late. It's not safe," she said. "Besides, I want to keep chatting with you for a bit longer."
I couldn't argue with her, so I agreed. We walked side by side, and our shadows stretched long under the streetlights.
The evening breeze was cool, but it felt refreshing.
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