Chapter 57

"No, it's not a lie," Nichole said, her eyes hardening. "And I don't care what you think about it. Max and I are happy, and that's all that matters. I'm sorry if this upsets you, but I'm not going to let your feelings stand in the way of my happiness."

Carmela felt like she'd been punched in the gut. Nichole's words were like a knife to her heart, and she felt the sting of betrayal. How could Nichole do this to her?

Carmela let out a bitter laugh, shaking her head in disbelief.

 "I'm happy for you and Max," she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "But I'm not happy that my husband married my best friend. There's a lot you haven't told me, it seems."

Nichole's face remained impassive. 

"There's a lot we need to talk about," she said, her voice cold. "But I'm not going to do it out here.”

Max cleared his throat, his eyes darting between the two women.

 "This is really uncomfortable," he said, his voice strained. "I just want us all