“Yes, even then. And even if one of us moves away.” I looked out of the corner of my eye to see Julia coming to stand beside me.

“Roxy’s actually pretty good at long-distance friendship. If you don’t mind the occasional ghosting.” Julia laughed. “I’m joking. She doesn’t do it anymore.”

Eyebrows raised, Jenna stuck out her hand. “I’m Jenna. And you are?”

“I’m Julia. Roxy and I go way back, but I’ve been studying in England so we haven’t seen each other.” I saw Julia tense her hand after it dropped to her side. It was one of the subtle signs of social anxiety for Julia, who hid her nerves much better than I. “So, Jenna, you’re the extroverted neighbor?”

Jenna flashed her perfect white teeth in a smile. “Loud and proud.”

We all laughed as Jeff appeared and pulled me into his side.

“You two are adorable, almost nauseously so,” Jenna said with a teasing smile, and then her expression became more serious. “Fresh start, Roxy?”

Putting my finger to my lips, I pretended to think about it for a moment. “Um, absolutely. Yes. I am, after all, making a list of New Year’s resolutions in my head already.” Jenna laughed, while Julia rolled her eyes.

And Jeff … he planted his warm lips on my temple before asking for another dance.