From the outset

Ten

Claire's POV:

As I knocked gently on Ryan's door, My heart filled with concern. I couldn't shake off the feeling that something was bothering my son.

"Ryan, sweetie, can I come in?" I asked.

The door creaked open, and I entered his room. Morning sunlight streamed through the window, illuminating his somber expression.

"Good morning baby" I said with a bright smile.

"Good morning Mom," Ryan said, his voice subdued.

I sat beside him on the bed.

"What's going on, honey? You seem troubled," I asked, studying his face.

Ryan sighed, rubbing his eyes.

"It's just... everything. Victoria, Scarlett... my heart's a mess."

My maternal instincts kicked in.

Victoria? Could it be my doubts about her were true I wondered.

Scarlett? I asked a little surprised wasn't expecting him to mention her.

"Tell me more," I encouraged.

Ryan hesitated, then opened up about his suspicions of Victoria's infidelity and his growing feelings for Scarlett.

"Ryan, remember that you deserve someone who loves and respects you fully," I said, holding his gaze. "Don't settle for anything less."

Ryan nodded, his expression resolute.

"I won't, Mom. I'll talk to Victoria today."

I smiled, proud of his determination.

"And what about Scarlett?" I asked, curiosity getting the better of me.

Ryan's cheeks flushed.

"I don't know, Mom. I really like her, but I don't want to hurt her either."

My heart swelled with love for my thoughtful son.

"You'll figure it out, sweetie. Just be honest with yourself and Scarlett."

Ryan's eyes locked onto mine, searching for guidance.

"What should I do, Mom?"

I took a deep breath.

"First, confront Victoria. Get closure. Then, take time to heal. And when you're ready, explore things with Scarlett."

Ryan nodded, determination etched on his face.

"Thanks, Mom. I'll do it." He said with a smile.

I smiled, proud of my son's resilience.

I kissed my son goodbye, then headed to the kitchen to prepare breakfast, feeling a mix of emotions. Sadness lingered, thinking about Victoria's infidelity and the pain she'd caused Ryan. But happiness and hope blossomed, knowing Ryan had developed feelings for Scarlett. She seemed like a lovely girl, genuine and kind.

"Could she be the one to bring happiness back to my son?" I wondered, cracking eggs into a bowl.