where are you trying to fly to and from?

Reading between the lines sounds like money is tight and miles are tight which I certainly can relate to the tight money part. Is there any way that the other companion can get the credit card? Then you could both use miles one way and a companion fare the other way. Or you might be able to find a one way award for both of you for 12.5K each which the 25K you got from the new card should cover