The evening stars

An evening at an Italian restaurant.

Sophie nervously glanced at her reflection in the mirror, adjusting the hem of her black dress. It was elegant and simple, with a slight cutout on the back that accentuated her slender figure. Combined with the bright red lipstick she applied, the look was striking and stylish. Sophie usually couldn't dress up for outings, but today she wanted to make an impression. The meeting with Rachel was a special event that she had been eagerly anticipating.

Leaving home, Sophie took a taxi to a small cozy Italian restaurant on the corner of a busy street. The evening coolness filled the air, giving the atmosphere a sense of lightness and charm. Upon entering the restaurant, Sophie instantly felt the aroma of fresh pasta and garlic, mingled with hints of Italian spices. Soft jazz was playing in the hall, creating a relaxed atmosphere.

Rachel was already waiting for her at the table by the window. She smiled, watching Sophie as she approached.

— Sophie, you look absolutely amazing! — exclaimed Rachel, hugging her friend. — This dress and red lipstick are just a winning combination!

— Thank you, Rachel. "You look wonderful too," Sophie replied, feeling her tension dissipate.

They settled at a table, the waiter brought the menu, and the girls quickly placed their order. They chose pasta and a bottle of red wine that was recommended to them. While the waiter was leaving, Rachel turned to Sophie, looking at her intently.

— Sophie, — Rachel began, pouring wine for both of them, — tell me how you've been; we rarely have heart-to-heart conversations, don't we? The last time we talked about your relationship, you said that nothing came of it. How did this happen?

Sophie sighed and thought it would be better to take a sip of wine before answering.

— Yes, everything is still the same. Jason and I broke up. He didn't want a serious relationship, didn't talk about family, children... I wasn't ready to waste my time on something that has no future. Perhaps I am too demanding. But it seems to me that I just have different priorities.

Rachel nodded sympathetically.

— I understand you, Sophie. We are all looking for someone who will meet our expectations. And sometimes it takes time. But don't worry, you will definitely find your person. I am sure of it!

— Thank you, Rachel, — Sophie smiled, feeling her friend's support. — And how are you? Tell me how you and Alex managed to build such a strong family?

— Oh, Alex... — Rachel smiled, her eyes shining with warmth. — He is an incredible person. We met when I was still studying at university. He was so passionate about his idea for a startup in the IT field. From the very beginning, it was clear that he was determined and ambitious. I believed in his dream, and we started working together. At first, it was difficult, but now he has a successful company, and I am so proud of him. But most of all, I am happy to be Sam's mother. This truly makes me happy.

Sophie listened to Rachel, feeling her own heart fill with warmth. Their conversation felt as if it had been transported back in time, to when they were still students dreaming about the future. Now this future has become a reality, and they could share their successes and joys with each other.

— You and Alex make a wonderful couple, — Sophie remarked, feeling genuine happiness for her friend. — And Sam seems to be such a sweet girl. I am happy that she will be in my class.

The evening continued in a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. Sophie and Rachel reminisced about the past, discussed the present, and dreamed of the future, enjoying delicious pasta and red wine. This evening became a reminder for them that true friendship withstands the tests of time and distance, remaining unchanged in its warmth and support.

When the conversation smoothly shifted to discussing future plans, Rachel suddenly frowned, looking at her glass of wine.

— Sophie, — she began thoughtfully, — I keep thinking that Sam needs to do something besides school. I want her to have some hobbies so that she can find herself and grow.

Sophie smiled and replied:

— That's a great idea. Children should have something that brings them joy and helps them grow. Have you thought about what Sam could be doing?

"To be honest, no," Rachel admitted. — I just don't know where to start. In New York, she had several circles, but now we are in a new city, and everything needs to start over.

Sophie paused for a moment, and then her face lit up with a smile:

— You know, I often go ice skating on weekends. This is one of my favorite activities. Maybe Sam would like to try figure skating? There are wonderful coaches there, and it's a great way to stay in shape and develop discipline.

Rachel immediately became excited about the idea. Her eyes sparkled, and a joyful smile appeared on her face.

— That sounds amazing! — she exclaimed. — Sam loves watching figure skating competitions. I think she will like it. Could you take her to the ice rink?

Sophie nodded enthusiastically.

— Of course! We could go to training together. This will be fun and beneficial for both of us. I am sure that Sam will be happy to try something new.

— Thank you, Sophie, — Rachel said gratefully. — I am so glad that Sam will have such support and the opportunity to engage in something interesting. You always know what to suggest.

They continued to discuss the training plan and the time when they could start. Rachel was already imagining Sam gliding on the ice in a beautiful costume, while Sophie felt joy from being able to help her friend and her daughter. This idea seemed like a great start for their new life in Chicago and another way to strengthen their friendship.