What if Tim had a daughter?

Part 23

Tim woke up early the next morning, as usual, before Olivia. The house was still quiet, and the familiar routine of his workout in the basement was a welcome distraction from the whirlwind of thoughts that had kept him up longer than he'd care to admit. He focused on the weights, trying to push Lucy out of his mind, but it was impossible. The memory of their banter from last night played on a loop—her teasing, the challenge in her words, the easy flow of their conversation.
Just keep it cool, he reminded himself as he finished his last set, wiping sweat from his brow.
After a quick shower, he made his way to the kitchen to start on breakfast, knowing Olivia would be up soon. He moved automatically, cracking eggs, flipping pancakes As Tim set the pancakes on the table, Olivia shuffled into the kitchen, rubbing her eyes and yawning.
Olivia- Morning, Dad.
She greeted sleepily, sliding into her chair.
Tim- Morning, sweetheart.
Tim replied, pouring her a glass of juice. He leaned against the counter, watching her with a smile.
Tim- So, I talked to Lucy yesterday. She's coming with us to mini-golf.
Olivia's face lit up instantly.
Olivia- Really? That's great!
Tim- Yeah.
Tim said with a grin.
Tim- I figured it wouldn't hurt to have a little backup. Y'know, in case the moms get too intense.
Olivia giggled, nodding in agreement.
Olivia- They can be a lot sometimes.
Tim took a sip of his coffee, then casually added.
Tim- Speaking of which, I was thinking... maybe we could grab lunch before meeting everyone at the mini-golf course. What do you think?
Olivia perked up.
Olivia- Yeah, that sounds fun! Is Lucy gonna come too?
Tim shrugged, keeping it casual.
Tim- I didn't ask her, but I can text her and see if she's up for it. If you want to.
Olivia paused, her fork hovering over the pancakes for a moment as she seemed to think it over. She then put her fork down and looked up at Tim with a small smile.
Olivia- Actually, Dad... maybe don't ask Lucy to join us for lunch.
Tim raised an eyebrow, a bit surprised.
Tim- Yeah? Why not? I thought you liked hanging out with her.
Olivia nodded quickly.
Olivia- I do! I really like her. But...
She hesitated, her eyes meeting his.
Olivia- I kinda just wanna spend some time with you, you know? Just us, like we used to.
Tim felt a warmth spread in his chest at her words. It was easy to get caught up in their busy schedules and how fast Olivia was growing up, but moments like these reminded him of how important their one-on-one time (not counting the evenings) still was to her.
Tim smiled, leaning back against the counter as he looked at his daughter.
Tim- I'd like that, too. Just the two of us.
Olivia grinned, clearly relieved he understood.
Olivia- Great! We can ask Lucy next time... but today, it's just you and me.
Tim gave her a nod, a soft chuckle escaping his lips.
Tin- Deal. We'll keep it a father-daughter lunch. And don't worry, you'll have plenty of time to hang out with Lucy at mini-golf.
Olivia giggled again, going back to her pancakes.
Olivia- I'm definitely going to beat everyone, though.
Tim smirked, feeling that competitive edge spark again.
Tim- We'll see about that, kiddo.
Tim and Olivia had a relaxed morning after breakfast, doing a few things around the house together. Olivia helped her dad with some light chores, and they even spent some time watching a show together. It was easy, simple, the kind of quiet Saturday morning that Tim cherished. No work pressures, no distractions—just time with his daughter.
By 11:30 AM, they left the house, heading toward Olivia's favorite sushi bar for their lunch date. Tim glanced over at Olivia as they drove, her face glowing with excitement.
Olivia- I'm definitely getting extra eel rolls today. You're not gonna steal them all like last time, right?
Tim chuckled, shaking his head.
Tim- Hey, I can't help it if you have good taste in sushi. But don't worry, today I'll order them myself.
They arrived at the sushi bar and settled into a booth, Olivia eagerly browsing the menu even though she knew exactly what she wanted. Their conversation flowed effortlessly, bouncing between school, her friends, and their plans for next week.
Tim- So, you're really confident about winning today, huh?
Olivia grinned, eyes twinkling.
Tim- Of course! I've got skills, Dad. Just wait and see.
Tim smiled, loving how sure of herself she was.
Tim- Alright, we'll see. But just remember—I'm not going down without a fight.
They spent the next hour savoring their sushi and each other's company, sharing stories and laughs, the bond between them clear and strong. By 12:40 PM, they wrapped up lunch and headed back to the car, Tim feeling more relaxed than he had in a while.
Tim- Ready to pick up Lucy?
Olivia nodded excitedly.
Olivia- Yup! Let's go.
They drove to Lucy's apartment, pulling up outside. Tim sent her a quick text to let her know they were there. A minute later, Lucy emerged, looking effortlessly beautiful in casual jeans and a jacket, waving as she approached the car.
Lucy- Hey! Ready to lose today?
Tim grinned, rolling his eyes playfully.
Tim- You're all talk. Get in, I've got a game to win.
Lucy laughed as she climbed into the car, Olivia chiming in from the backseat.
Olivia- Dad's nervous, Lucy. I can tell.
Tim shot a mock glare at Olivia through the rearview mirror.
Tim- Nervous? Please. I'm just mentally preparing for the inevitable victory.
Lucy smirked, her competitive side coming out.
Lucy- Yeah, sure.
With the playful tension in the air, they arrived at the mini-golf location just before 1 PM, meeting up with a few of Olivias friends and their moms.
As Tim, Olivia, and Lucy arrived at the mini-golf course, they were greeted by the familiar buzz of families, the cheerful hum of conversations filling the air. Olivia quickly spotted her friends—Mia and Dylan (siblings), Lily, and Harper and James, two of Mia's friends.
Mia was the first to wave them over, bouncing on her heels with excitement.
Mia- Olivia! Over here!
Olivia rushed over to join her friends, leaving Tim and Lucy to follow at a more leisurely pace. Tim smiled as he watched Olivia fall easily into conversation with her group, her happiness contagious.
As Tim and Lucy approached the mini-golf course, the familiar buzz of families and the cheerful atmosphere surrounded them. Olivia had already joined her group of friends—Mia, Dylan, Lily, Harper and James—and they were all chatting excitedly about the game ahead.
Before Tim and Lucy could make it to the group, Claire and Nicole, two of the moms Lucy had met the day before, were the first to greet them. Claire offered a quick smile, but there was a slight edge to her friendliness, as if she was still sizing Lucy up.
Claire (Mia and Dylan's mom)- Hey, Tim! Hi again... Lucy.
Her tone was casual, though her curiosity was evident.
Claire- Glad you made it.
Nicole, standing next to her, gave a brief nod of acknowledgment, her expression polite but a little distant.
Nicole (James's mom)- Hi, Tim. Lucy...
Her voice was calm, though there was an unspoken question behind her words.
Lucy returned their greetings with a friendly smile, though she could sense something slightly off in the way they interacted with her. Before she could dwell on it, another woman, Leah, Mia's mom, came over, a wide, genuine smile on her face. (Leah was one of Tim's friends, but Lucy didn't know much about her beyond the fact that she seemed kind.)
Leah (Lily's mom)- Hey there! Good to see you two.
She greeted Lucy warmly, giving her a quick, easy nod.
Leah- I don't think we've met yet. I'm Leah, Lily's mom.
Her tone was upbeat, her attitude much more relaxed than the others.
Lucy smiled back, appreciating Leah's friendliness.
Lucy- Nice to meet you, I'm Lucy. I'm here to make sure Tim doesn't embarrass himself. And to win the bet, of course.
Tim chuckled, shaking his head.
Tim- I think you're setting yourself up for disappointment there.
As they shared a laugh, Claire and Nicole exchanged quick glances, clearly not willing to let the moment pass without digging deeper.
Victoria (Harper's mom)- Hey guys, nice to see you.
Victoria says, eyeing Lucy from head to toes. (By the way Victoria and Tim know each other and she wants something from him, like the others accept Leah. It's just that Olivia and Harper aren't really friends. )
Claire- So, Tim,
She started, her tone light but laced with curiosity.
Claire- We weren't expecting Lucy to join. We thought today was more of a parent-and-kid thing?
Nicole nodded in agreement, her brow slightly raised.
Victoria- Yeah, isn't this supposed to be kind of a family outing?
There was an unspoken accusation in their words, though they tried to cover it with casual smiles. Leah, however, simply watched, her arms crossed, as if anticipating Tim and Lucy's response.
Tim and Lucy exchanged a glance, a familiar look of mischief flickering between them. Without needing to speak, they both knew they were about to mess with Claire, Nicole and Victoria just a little. Maybe a lot.
Tim leaned against the counter casually, a playful smirk tugging at his lips.
Tim- Oh, Lucy?
He shrugged, feigning nonchalance.
Tim- She's just...
He let his sentence hang in the air, glancing at Lucy for effect.
Lucy picked up the cue without missing a beat, nudging Tim with her elbow as she added,
Lucy- Yeah, we're just... you know...
She trailed off dramatically, keeping her expression perfectly straight but with a glint of amusement in her eyes.
The moms leaned in slightly, clearly eager to know more.
Tim- Friends.
His tone was casual, though the humor in his eyes said otherwise.
Lucy- Totally normal, everyday friends.
She shot Tim a quick, conspiratorial glance, her lips twitching into a smile, stepping a little closer to Tim. They were standing way to close by now.
Claire, Victoria and Nicole exchanged confused looks, clearly unsure of whether to believe them or if they were being teased.
Claire- Just friends?
She tilted her head, trying to keep it casual but clearly not convinced.
Nicole- Right...
She gave a polite smile, though her curiosity hadn't been satisfied.
Leah, who had been watching this exchange with a knowing smile, finally chimed in.
Leah- We're here for the our kids.
She winked at Lucy, catching on to the playful banter.
Leah- Doesn't matter if you're a parent or not.
Lucy grinned, appreciating Leah's laid-back vibe.
Lucy- Right. Besides, someone has to keep Tim in check.
Tim chuckled, shaking his head.
Tim- Sure, if by "keep in check" you mean trying not to lose to me.
He shot her a teasing look.
As the group headed toward the mini-golf kiosk to pick up their gear, Lucy excused herself, mentioning she needed to go to the restroom. She started to walk off, but before she could get too far, Leah caught up to her, leaving Lily with Tim and Olivia for a moment.
Leah- Mind if I join you?
She asked casually, her tone friendly.
Lucy- Sure, come on.
The two women walked side by side, falling into an easy conversation as they made their way to the restroom. Leah seemed curious but not in the same nosy, judgmental way as the other moms. It made Lucy feel more comfortable.
Leah- So.
She began, her voice light, but there was an underlying curiosity.
Leah- What's really going on with you and Tim?
Lucy chuckled softly, appreciating that Leah wasn't prying in the same way as Claire or Nicole. She shrugged, glancing at Leah with a smirk.
Lucy- Honestly? We're just friends.
She paused for a moment, thinking about how to explain.
Lucy- We work together, and we've gotten close over the last few months. But really, it's more about Olivia. I've become close with her, and yesterday I went to her Mother's Day thing at Olivias school...
She trailed off with a smile.
Lucy- Messing with the moms? That's just a fun bonus. I think I can't stop it anymore.
Leah laughed, clearly amused by the situation.
Leah- I love it. They're so quick to jump to conclusions. You're handling them perfectly.
Lucy grinned, appreciating Leah's easygoing nature.
Lucy- Yeah, they seem to have made up their minds about me already, so might as well have some fun with it.
As they approached the restroom, Leah suddenly paused, a look of realization crossing her face.
Leah- Oh, shit! I left my purse with Lily.
She gave Lucy an apologetic smile.
Leah- I don't suppose you happen to have a tampon or something?
Lucy laughed softly, already digging into her bag.
Lucy- Lucky for you, I'm always prepared.
She handed Leah what she needed, and Leah gave her a grateful smile.
Leah- You're a lifesaver.
They headed into the restroom, chatting a bit more about life, work, and the kids. Lucy found Leah easy to talk to, and it didn't take long for them to click. Leah's laid-back attitude made her feel less like an outsider compared to the way the other moms treated her.
On their way back to the group, Leah turned to Lucy, her expression thoughtful.
Leah- You know, it's really nice that you're so close with Olivia. I think Tim appreciates that more than you realize.
Lucy shrugged, feeling a bit shy about the compliment.
Lucy- She's a great kid.
As they reached the group, they were greeted by Tim, Olivia, Lily, and the others, all holding their mini-golf gear, ready to start. Tim smiled at them, raising an eyebrow as they approached.
Tim- Took you long enough. Thought you'd gotten lost.
Lucy rolled her eyes playfully. The other mom's laughing way too hard at his crappy comment.
Lucy- We were having an important conversation... About how you're gonna lose and how bad you'll feel while you pay off your bet-depth.
Leah gave him a grin, leaning in to grab her gear from Lily.
Leah- You wouldn't understand, Tim.
Tim chuckled, handing Lucy her putter and ball.
Tim- Oh, I'm sure it was way over my head.
As the group gathered around, preparing to start the game, Lucy felt a newfound sense of camaraderie with Leah. It was nice to know that not all of the moms were on edge around her, and Leah's support made the day feel a little lighter.
As the mini-golf game kicked off, the group spread out across the course. The kids were already in full swing—Olivia confidently lining up her shots while the others chatted excitedly, strategizing their moves. Tim kept things playful, making little comments here and there to keep the energy light, and Lucy found herself occasionally exchanging amused glances with Leah as they watched.
A few holes into the game, Lucy and Leah ended up a little further from the group, walking side by side as they waited for their turn. The atmosphere between them was easy, relaxed—something Lucy appreciated after dealing with the scrutiny from some of the other moms.
As they neared the next hole, Lucy decided to address something that had been on her mind. She glanced over at Leah, trying to keep her tone casual but curious.
Lucy- So...
She hesitated for a beat, her voice light.
Lucy- You and Tim seem really close. Are you guys like... an unofficial thing?
Lucy immediately felt the need to backtrack, realizing how that could have come off. She raised her hands slightly, ready to apologize.
Lucy- I mean, I'm just asking because—well, I was teasing the other moms earlier, and I didn't want to get between anything.
Leah's reaction was instant—she burst out laughing, her easy, carefree attitude making it clear she wasn't offended in the slightest.
Leah- Oh my god, no! Me and Tim?
She waved her hand dismissively.
Leah- We're just friends. Nothing more.
Lucy let out a relieved laugh, about to apologize again when Leah cut her off.
Leah- And for the record...
She gave Lucy a friendly nudge with her elbow.
Leah- He's not my type. I'm not really into men.
Lucy blinked in surprise before a grin spread across her face.
Lucy- Oh! Well, that clears that up.
She couldn't help but laugh, but then quickly turned apologetic again.
Lucy- I'm so sorry for assuming—
Leah waved off her apology, still grinning.
Leah- Lucy, you're fine! Don't even worry about it. Honestly, I'm flattered you thought so. But yeah, Tim and I are just good friends.
She shrugged, her tone light.
Leah- And honestly, watching you, like getting under their skin. Best thing I've seen in a while.
Lucy sighed, clearly relieved that Leah had taken her question so well.
Lucy- Well, that's good to know. You're way cooler than the other moms.
Leah laughed again, giving Lucy a playful wink.
Leah- Thanks. I like to think I'm the "cool mom" around here.
They caught up to the group, the tension from the earlier interactions with the other moms seemed to lift even more. Leah's  attitude made Lucy feel more at ease, and they continued to chat, now on much friendlier terms.
As they approached the next hole, they were greeted by Tim, Olivia, and the others, who had already finished their shots and were waiting.
Tim- What took you guys so long? You strategizing over there?
Lucy rolled her eyes, playfully waving him off.
Lucy- Just talking. You wouldn't get it.
Leah smirked, exchanging a knowing glance with Lucy.
Leah- Yep. Tim, this one's way out of your league.
Tim chuckled, clearly used to being the target of their teasing by now.
Tim- No way, I'm out of her league.
Lucy raised an eyebrow at Tim, a smirk playing on her lips as she crossed her arms, ready to throw his comment right back at him.
Lucy- Out of my league?
She gave him an exaggerated once-over, her tone dripping with playful sarcasm.
Lucy- Please, Tim. If anything, you should be taking notes.
Leah laughed, clearly enjoying the banter. She leaned in slightly, mock-warning in her voice.
Leah- Watch it, Tim. You're treading dangerous waters now.
She gave him a teasing smile.
Leah- You've got two women ganging up on you—you sure you're ready for that?
Tim leaned in closer, lowering his voice just enough so that only Leah and Lucy could hear, his eyes gleaming with mischief.
Tim- You know, if you two keep ganging up on me, I might have to call in reinforcements.
He tilted his head slightly toward where Claire, Victoria, and Nicole were standing.
Tim- Should I go get them? Even the odds a bit?
Leah immediately snorted, shaking her head, but Lucy wasn't backing down. She leaned back, crossing her arms with a smirk, her eyes daring him.
Lucy- Oh, go ahead. Get them.
She shrugged, pretending to be casual but clearly enjoying the challenge.
Lucy- I'd love to see how that turns out for you.
Leah bit her lip, holding back laughter as she watched the exchange, while Tim's grin faltered just slightly. He glanced back at the other moms for a brief second, then quickly returned his attention to Lucy, shaking his head with mock defeat.
Tim- Okay, you got me. Not worth the risk. They're probably more dangerous than you two combined.
Leah- Smart choice.
She shot Lucy a wink.
Leah- But, it's good to know you're scared of us.
Tim- Not scared. Just... cautious.
He flashed a quick smile.
Tim- I've learned when to pick my battles.
Lucy laughed, clearly pleased with his retreat. The light banter between the three of them kept the mood playful and relaxed as they moved on to the next hole, their teasing continuing to flow effortlessly.
As they reached the final hole and finished their game, the whole group decided to head to the small restaurant nearby for drinks and ice cream. The air was filled with the hum of chatter and laughter as they sat around the tables, waiting for their orders. Tim sat at one end of the table, carefully counting up the points from their mini-golf game.
Tim- Alright, everyone. Here we go. First place... Olivia!
Olivia beamed proudly, earning a round of applause from the group.
Tim- Second place... Leah.
Leah gave a triumphant little cheer, clearly pleased with her performance.
Tim- Then Claire, followed by Dylan, then... me.
He glanced at Lucy with a grin before continuing.
Tim And... Lucy, tied with me for fifth.
Lucy immediately narrowed her eyes at him, disbelief written all over her face.
Lucy- Wait, what?
She leaned forward, looking skeptical.
Tim- Then we have Lily, James, Victoria, Harper, Mia and Nicole
Lucy- Are you sure you didn't miscalculate?
She gestured at the paper in his hand.
Lucy- It seems very odd that we ended up with the same points.
Tim smirked, clearly enjoying her reaction, and held the paper out for her to see.
Tim- Go ahead, check for yourself.
Lucy snatched the paper from him, quickly scanning their scores and recounting his and her points. She frowned, then sighed in frustration.
Lucy- Ugh, how could that happen?
Tim just leaned back in his chair, grinning like he'd pulled off some master trick.
Tim- Guess we're evenly matched.
Lucy- Yeah, yeah...
She gave him a mock glare, but there was no denying the playful amusement in her eyes.
Lucy- Since it's a tie, I guess that means neither of us has to pay our bet debt.
Before Tim could respond, Leah, who had been observing this exchange with a knowing smile, raised an eyebrow.
Leah- Hold up. What bet?
Lucy shot Tim a glance, and he raised his hands in mock innocence.
Tim- It's nothing... just a friendly wager...
Lucy- Yeah, not important.
Leah leaned forward, clearly not letting this one go.
Leah- Oh no, no. If there was a bet, both of you are paying up. Tied or not.
She gave them a teasing but firm look.
Leah- So, what was it?
Tim and Lucy exchanged another glance, both clearly trying to come up with an excuse. Lucy tried to wave it off casually.
Lucy- It's really nothing. Just... who would be better.
Leah, now enjoying herself way too much, smirked.
Leah- Well, neither of you is better than the other, so I guess you're both losers. That means you both have to pay up.
Tim- But Leah—
Leah cut him off, giving him a mock stern look.
Leah- No excuses. A bet is a bet.
The rest of the group, now intrigued by the back-and-forth, began chiming in, egging Tim and Lucy on. Even Olivia was watching, clearly amused.
Lucy- Alright, fine. But I still think it's unfair.
Tim shook his head, laughing under his breath.
Tim- You heard her. Guess we're stuck paying up.
Leah grinned victoriously, crossing her arms with satisfaction.
Leah- That's right. Now, what's the penalty?
Lucy and Tim exchanged sheepish glances, knowing there was no getting out of this one. Whatever the bet was, they were going to have to face it—together.
Leah- What was the bet you two had going on for mini-golf? Don't think you're gonna get away without telling us.
Tim shot Lucy a side-glance, his fingers drumming on the table.
Tim- It's not that big of a deal.
He said casually, though the slight twitch of a grin betrayed him.
Lucy, sensing the eyes on them, bit her lip to hide her own smirk.
Lucy- Yeah, we can't tell you.
She said, shaking her head in mock seriousness.
Lucy- But...
She leaned a little closer to Leah, her voice just above a whisper but loud enough for everyone to hear.
Lucy- I'll tell you later.
The table erupted in a mixture of laughter and mock gasps, Leah included. But across the table, the trio of Nicole, Claire, and Victoria were less amused, exchanging glances that screamed irritation.
Claire, her voice a touch too sweet, leaned in, eyes flickering between Tim and Lucy.
Claire- Oh, come on, don't be shy. We all want to know. What kind of bet could you have possibly made with Tim?
Nicole, clearly unimpressed, added.
Nicole- Yeah, what could it be? Whoever lost had to clean up after Olivia's mess?
Olivia, sitting next to Tim, rolled her eyes dramatically, shooting Lucy a look that said, Here we go again. She leaned closer to her dad, whispering,
Olivia- Why are they always like this?
Tim gave her a reassuring smile, trying to deflect the tension, but before he could respond, Lucy leaned forward, her expression shifting to one of fierce determination.
Lucy- Just so we're clear, what Olivia does—or how she handles her life—is absolutely none of your business.
Her voice was steady, but the intensity was palpable. The trio blinked, taken aback by her boldness.
Lucy- She's a kid, and if you feel the need to pick battles, you should do it with people your own age. Leave the girl out of it.
The other moms exchanged startled looks, clearly thrown off by Lucy's sudden aggression.
Nicole tried to recover, her smile turning icy.
Nicole- Relax, Lucy. We were just making a joke. No need to get defensive.
Lucy shot her a look that was unyielding.
Lucy- Jokes at Olivia's or any child's expense aren't funny. So if that's what you're aiming for, you might want to rethink your approach.
Victoria, finally chiming in, crossed her arms and leaned forward, her tone sharp with thinly veiled annoyance.
Victoria- Oh please, Lucy. You're acting like we just committed a crime. It was harmless. Maybe if you didn't take everything so seriously, you'd actually have some fun for once.
Lucy kept her gaze steady, unshaken by Victoria's attempt to dismiss her. She tilted her head slightly, her expression calm but resolute.
Lucy- Harmless? Making a child the punchline of your so-called jokes isn't harmless. It's mean. And I'm not going to sit here and pretend that's okay just because it's easier for you to laugh it off.
Nicole, clearly frustrated now, rolled her eyes.
Nicole- You're overreacting. Are you on your period or something?
The remark hung in the air like a slap, but Lucy didn't flinch. Instead, she let out a small, amused breath, looking almost disappointed. She glanced around the table, catching the uncomfortable expressions on the faces of some of the others who had been listening in. Then, she leaned in slightly, her voice calm but laced with a steely edge.
Lucy- Wow. You went there. Honestly, Nicole, right? I don't know. But what I do know is this—if this is the level we, you are at, I feel sorry for the kids. It's embarrassing. You want to act like you're better than everyone? Fine. But leave Olivia—and every other kid—out of your games.
The sharpness in Lucy's words cut through the tension, silencing any retort Nicole might have had. The trio exchanged glances, trying to hide their discomfort, but the damage had been done. They were cornered, and they knew it.
Claire, sensing the weight of Lucy's final words, made one last attempt to save face, her tone defensive.
Claire- We weren't trying to be mean. It was just a joke, Lucy. Don't make this bigger than it needs to be.
Lucy shook her head, her gaze unwavering.
Lucy- No. This is exactly as big as it needs to be. If you can't see why this isn't okay, then maybe it's time you do some thinking about what you're teaching your own kids. I don't care if you want to pick at me, but leave Olivia out of it. She's just a kid.
There was a long pause, the weight of Lucy's words settling in. The trio didn't respond, too taken aback by how quickly the tables had turned on them. Lucy had made her point, and there was no coming back from it.
With that, Lucy leaned back in her chair, her expression neutral but firm, signaling that the conversation was over. Tim, though silent throughout, gave her a look of appreciation, while Olivia, sitting next to him, smiled softly, clearly touched by Lucy's defense of her.
Lucy caught Olivia's soft smile, her protectiveness immediately softening into something warmer. She gave the girl a subtle nod, as if to say, I've got your back. Olivia's eyes gleamed with gratitude.
Lucy's gaze then shifted toward Tim, who had been watching her silently throughout the exchange. His expression was one of quiet appreciation, a hint of pride in the way his eyes softened as they met hers. He didn't say anything, but the look spoke volumes—Thank you.
Lucy returned his gaze with a quick, knowing smile before she casually reached for her drink. She took a slow sip, the conversation around the table resuming with a more cautious tone, though no one dared to push the subject any further. She set the glass down, feeling the tension dissipate just enough for the atmosphere to start easing back into normalcy.
The group finished their drinks, while the kids polished off the last of their ice creams. Conversations around the table gradually shifted to lighter topics, but there was an air of restraint. No one brought up the earlier tension again, and soon, it was time to part ways.
As everyone stood to leave, goodbyes were exchanged with easy smiles, though Lucy noticed Nicole, Claire, and Victoria were quick to slip away, their usual airs of superiority dimmed. Leah, Tim, Lucy, and the two girls, Lily an Olivia headed toward the parking lot together.
Once at the cars, Leah and Lily said their goodbyes, with Leah offering Lucy a quick wink, silently acknowledging how she had handled things. Lucy smiled back, appreciating the unspoken support, before Leah and Lily climbed into their car and drove off.
In Tim's car, Olivia hopped into the backseat, fiddling with her seatbelt as Lucy and Tim stood outside. Lucy hesitated for a moment, glancing at Tim. She let out a small sigh, feeling the need to address what had happened.
Lucy- I'm sorry about earlier, Tim. I didn't mean to cause a scene, but I just couldn't let them get away with talking about Olivia like that.
Before she could continue, Tim shook his head, cutting her off gently.
Tim- Don't apologize, Lucy. Seriously, thank you for what you did. I've wanted to say something to them so many times, but... well, you know how it is. Things can go bad real quick when it's me calling them out.
Lucy looked at him, understanding dawning. She knew the unspoken dynamics of those social circles, and how quickly people—especially certain women—could turn on someone like Tim for speaking out. His gratitude made her feel even more certain that she had done the right thing.
Lucy- I get it. It's tricky when it comes to situations like that. But honestly, they needed to be put in place. Olivia shouldn't have to deal with their nonsense.
Tim smiled, his eyes warm with appreciation.
Tim- You have no idea how much that means to me, Lucy. It was great, the way you handled it. I don't think they'll be trying that again anytime soon.
Lucy gave him a half-smile, feeling a little more at ease. She at Olivia, who was contentedly scrolling through her phone.
Lucy- I hope so. But if they do, I've got her back.
Tim nodded, clearly reassured by her words. The two of them shared a moment of quiet understanding before Tim opened the door of the driers side. As Lucy slid into the passenger seat and Tim took the wheel, they settled into a companionable silence. The tension from earlier had faded, leaving only the comforting sense of solidarity between them.
As they pulled out of the parking lot, Olivia spoke up from the backseat, her voice casual.
Olivia- So... can we get dinner on the way home?