Fake Love

2

Miranda was busy packing her suitcase, folding clothes and tossing them into the bag while Callie, her friend and colleague from the hospital, sat on the bed.

"So, spill the beans" Callie said, raising an eyebrow. "What's this master plan of yours for the trip?"

Miranda paused, looking up from her packing with a mischievous smile. "Well, the idea is to make Tucker a little jealous, you know? Show him that I've moved on and that he's not the center of my world anymore."

"Ah, the classic jealousy game. And what's the end goal here? Make him realize he messed up and that you could do better?"

"Exactly. I want him to see that he lost something good and that I don't need him to be happy."

Callie chuckled, shaking her head in amusement. "Oh, Miranda. Always the strategist. So, who's the lucky guy you're bringing along?"

Miranda hesitated for a moment before answering. "Benjamin Warren, the anesthesiologist."

"Does this mean you're using poor Ben as your pawn in this little game?" Callie asked

"Of course not, let's just say Ben is a very convenient choice. He's sweet, reliable, and he's been my friend for a while now. Plus, he's easy on the eyes."

Callie laughed outright at that. "So, what you're saying is, you see Ben as an upgrade from Tucker?"

"I never said that. But let's just say Ben has qualities that Tucker lacks. Like patience, kindness, and a sense of humor that doesn't involve making snide remarks."

"Oh, Miranda, you're terrible. But you know what? If this plan of yours makes Tucker realize what he's missing out on, then more power to you."

"Exactly more power to me" she nodded and continued her packing "And Ben is great, but we're just friends. This trip is just about making Tucker jealous, remember?"

Callie laughed, teasing Miranda gently. "Uh-huh, sure. Just friends who are going on a romantic getaway together. Sounds totally platonic to me."

Miranda rolled her eyes but couldn't help but smile. "You know what I mean, Callie. Ben is just playing along to help me out. He knows the deal."

Callie shrugged, still grinning. "If you say so, Miranda. But you better be careful. Sometimes these master plans have a way of backfiring, and you might end up realizing that what you thought you wanted isn't what you actually need."

Miranda sighed, feeling a twinge of doubt but pushing it aside. "Thanks for the advice, Callie. But don't worry, I've got this all figured out."

Miranda returned to her packing, both women knew that the upcoming trip would be filled with surprises, revelations, and maybe even a little bit of drama.

"Miranda, have you ever considered actually moving on from your divorce? I mean, really moving on?"

Miranda paused, setting down the shirt she was folding as she thought about Callie's question. "I have moved on, Callie. I'm not hung up on Tucker anymore, if that's what you're asking."

Callie raised an eyebrow, sensing there was more to Miranda's story. "I mean, moving on in the sense of dating again. Have you thought about opening yourself up to that possibility?"

Miranda sighed, running a hand through her hair. "Honestly, Callie, I barely have time for anything outside of the hospital and taking care of Tuck. Dating just feels like one more thing to add to my plate."

"I get it, Miranda. Between your demanding job and being a single mom, it's hard to find time for yourself, let alone for dating."

Miranda smiled gratefully at Callie's understanding. "Exactly. And besides, I'm content with where I am right now. Tuck is my priority, and as long as he's happy and healthy, that's all that matters to me."