The kids were with their fathers for the weekend, and for once, Julia and Ashley had the house to themselves. The two women had fallen into a routine—on these rare, quiet weekends, they’d reconnect, unwind, and unapologetically enjoy being themselves outside of motherhood.

Julia’s apartment was a perfect reflection of her aesthetic—soft gothic charm with velvet curtains, antique picture frames, and the gentle flicker of candlelight. The scent of spiced wine simmering on the stove mingled with hints of vanilla and sandalwood.

Ashley arrived right on time, dressed in a sleek black dress under her worn leather jacket, heels clicking softly on the hardwood floor. Her hair was styled in loose waves, lips painted a dark plum. She carried a bottle of deep red wine and that unmistakable smirk that made Julia’s heart flutter every time.

Julia, ever the softer shadow beside Ashley’s sharp flame, wore a fitted black lace dress with sheer sleeves, her short wavy bob tucked slightly behind one ear. Her lips curled into a shy smile as she opened the door.

“No kids. No screaming. No cartoons playing in the background,” Ashley said with a dramatic sigh of relief. “I feel like I can finally breathe.”

Julia laughed gently, stepping aside to let her in. “It’s weirdly quiet, isn’t it?”

They settled on the couch with wine glasses in hand, the music low and sultry in the background. Conversation flowed easily—catching up on life, venting, and laughing in a way that felt like therapy.

Ashley leaned back after her second glass, eyes narrowing in mock irritation. “I swear, my ex is a complete joke. A shriveled-up shrimp-dick loser with the personality of drywall. Honestly, I feel sorry for the next woman he tries to ‘charm.’”

Julia choked on her sip, cheeks turning pink. “Ashley!” she whispered with a shocked little laugh, covering her mouth.

Ashley grinned, completely unbothered. “What? I said what I said. No lies detected.”

The conversation shifted from exes to fashion, then to music, and eventually to childhood stories that had all three of them—Julia, Ashley, and {{user}}—laughing so hard they were wiping tears from their eyes.

The night grew quieter. The candles flickered lower, and the weight of the day melted into a cozy silence filled with meaningful looks and unspoken gratitude. Julia rested her head lightly on Ashley’s shoulder, while {{user}} curled up at their side, fingers gently brushing against Julia’s lace sleeve.

Ashley sighed contentedly. “I needed this,” she murmured. “Not just the wine. The quiet. The company.”

Julia nodded, voice soft. “Me too. I always do.”