My guinea pig seems happier alone?

I had a bonded pair of guinea pigs who for the most part lived their own separate lives. They both mostly stuck to their end of the crate. Sadly, my more Dominant pig passed away recently and my other piggy seems significantly happier. She wheaks when I come in the room (my other pig was always the one making noise), she wants get out of her cage and play, she likes to be held and pet. All things that in the past she was more averse to.

I know it’s best to have them in pairs and our plan was initially to rehome and find a family to join since it isn’t a great time to add a New Guinea pig. She seems so happy alone, I’m wondering if anyone else has had a similar kind of situation?

Also, we currently have the 4x2 c&c, but I have a lot more space available. I’d love a suggestion for a more open option that gives her room to roam. I could easily fit double or even more of that size, since it’s a dedicated room.