The mere thought of embarrassing herself in front of them made Bettie reconsider. With newfound clarity, she declared, "No! Alright, Let's head home!"

“That's right!" As Sabrina helped her, she informed their peers, “Bettie's had a bit too much. We're heading off now."

Others nodded understandingly, but not without a reminder. "Hey Bettie, remember Bradley's autograph!"

“Of course! I've got it in mind!"

Reaching the underground parking, Sabrina assisted Bettie into the back seat, mentioning, "We're going to pick up Jennie. Feel free to nap back there if you need to."

Bettie didn't say anything.

After leaving the room, a sudden wave of sadness washed over her.

Later in the drive, as Sabrina focused on the road, a soft whimper caught her attention.

Glancing through the rearview mirror, she saw Bettie, tears streaming down her face.

Sabrina's heart raced as she nearly missed braking for the upcoming red light. "Bettie, talk to me. What's going on?"

In all their years of friendship, Sabrina had never seen Bettie shed tears so profoundly.

Through her tears, Bettie whispered, “Why did he return? After Leaving so decisively, why come back?"

Sabrina remained silent, letting her speak.

It was clear that running into Lance tonight had resurrected painful memories from years past.

For the three years Sabrina had known Bettie, Lance's name had never crossed their conversations, as if he was a stranger.

Bettie had always been the embodiment of joy, energy, and optimism every time they met over the past few years.

Everyone harbored some pain, but Bettie chose to lock hers away, presenting a brave face to the world.

Those old wounds might have stayed concealed, lost in the recesses of her heart, if not for tonight's reunion.

Now, Sabrina pieced together why Bettie loved scrolling through pictures of attractive men online, and why she opted for male servers to keep her company over drinks and songs, yet never genuinely gave her heart to someone.

Perhaps she hadn't moved past Lance, or maybe the hurt was so deep that love seemed Like a far-fetched dream.