My Mister

Chapter 8

Mia, sensing Amanda's growing frustration, hastened to clarify her intention, assuring her friend that she wasn't aligning herself with Harley but rather offering a perspective for consideration. However, Amanda's anger only intensified at the suggestion that Harley might be right.

Recognizing that Mia's words came from a place of genuine concern and love, Amanda chose a different path. Instead of erupting in anger, she took a deep breath and calmly shared the untold chapters of her journey with Harley. Amanda revealed that during her pregnancy, Harley was absent, and when Ethan was born, Harley wasn't there to help. She bore the responsibility of raising Ethan on her own until he turned seven.

Mia, listening empathetically, acknowledged the immense effort and sacrifice Amanda had made as a single mother. However, she gently reminded Amanda that now that Harley was showing willingness to be involved, it was crucial not to let Ethan slip through the cracks of their evolving co-parenting arrangement.

Amanda, shaking her head in frustration, insisted that she wasn't neglecting Ethan. She argued that Harley, despite his newfound willingness, lacked the essential qualities of a father and was unable to fulfill the role that Ethan needed. The complexities of their dynamic, entangled with past grievances and evolving circumstances, painted a challenging picture for Amanda.

As the brunch unfolded, the conversation between Mia and Amanda delved into the intricacies of parenthood, love, and the delicate dance of co-parenting.

The lingering tension from their previous conversation gradually gave way to a more lighthearted atmosphere. Amanda, always quick to navigate the shifting currents of conversation, changed the topic, steering towards Mia's experiences from the previous night.

She playfully inquired about the mysterious man Mia had been staring at in the club. Mia, caught off guard, insisted that she didn't know who he was, attempting to dismiss the idea that there was anything more to the encounter. Amanda, with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, claimed that she saw it all – the supposed "lust" in Mia's eyes as she watched him ascend the stairs. Mia couldn't help but laugh at the exaggerated observation.

Amanda, undeterred, shifted the focus to Liam, the charming man Mia had connected with at the club. Amanda was curious about the dynamics between them. Mia, reflecting on the encounter, admitted that Liam was cute. She shared a few details about him, revealing that they seemed to have some common interests – he was dragged out by Noah, he preferred staying in, enjoyed pineapple on pizza, and had a low alcohol tolerance.

Amanda, seemingly satisfied with the newfound information, laughed contentedly. The brunch table, once fraught with complex emotions, now resonated with a lighter energy as Mia and Amanda navigated the intricate dance of friendship and shared experiences.

The day unfolded, filled with laughter, revelations, and the complexities of friendship. As Francis closed its doors, Mia took charge and drove Amanda back to her place. Amanda, having indulged in the mimosas, was a bit worse for wear, but Mia stayed with her for a while to ensure she was settled.

After making sure Amanda was comfortable, Mia called for an Uber to take her back home. The night had taken its toll, and as Mia stepped into her apartment, fatigue washed over her. She found herself lying on her bed, the weight of the day settling in. Exhaustion enveloped her, and the solitude of her apartment became a cocoon for reflection.

Without Amanda around, Mia contemplated the weekend ahead. The prospect of spending it alone, surrounded by the comforting glow of her favorite romantic dramas, seemed both comforting and isolating. Mia, a romantic at heart, couldn't help but reflect on the relationships that had shaped her past – relationships that, unfortunately, had been marred by heartache.

As she lay there, the echoes of the night and the day's conversations reverberated in her mind.