YOU WHAT?! Samantha Barigha stared astounded into her best friend's face, or rather, what used to be her best friend, the incredulity evident in her tone.

Gracie made a pout. 'Please be happy for me. This means so much to me.'

Obviously, Samantha thought, trying to keep her expression neutral.

Gracie wasn't one to take discouragement. She didn't think anything mattered as long as her mind was set on something. And this was one something.

She pouted good-natured, one of her strong winning points. 'I thought you'd understand. You know how important this is to me. I just want you to be happy for me.'

Sighing more out of exasperation...