The next few weeks were filled with small steps forward. Jade picked up a few freelance projects to pay the bills, and she started prioritizing her mental and physical health. She joined a local yoga class, and every morning, she spent a few minutes journaling, sorting through her thoughts. The routines brought her a quiet sense of control, helping her feel grounded.
One morning after class, Jade noticed Camille waiting by the coffee shop next door. "Fancy seeing you here!" Camille said, grinning as she handed Jade a coffee. "You're glowing. I think all that inner work is paying off."
Jade laughed, genuinely touched by her friend's support. "It's been rough, honestly. But I think I'm finally starting to figure out what makes me happy."
Camille nodded knowingly. "That's all that matters, really. Everything else is just noise. Keep doing what makes you feel like yourself."
Their friendship felt like a lifeline, a reminder that she wasn't alone. And with Camille's encouragement, Jade began to explore more creative outlets, even starting a blog where she documented her journey.