It Had To Be You!

Part 17

The atmosphere inside the car was heavy with tension, creating a palpable silence that seemed to stretch on endlessly. Mon and Sam sat rigidly in their seats, their gazes fixed firmly ahead, avoiding any eye contact that might spark an uncomfortable conversation. The only sound breaking through the thick quiet was the gentle melody of a children's music playlist playing softly from the speakers. It was a deliberate choice; the familiar tunes were meant to ease Zoe's restless mood. She sat in the backseat, her little brows furrowed in frustration, but as the cheerful songs gently filled the space, a hint of calm washed over her. As the catchy rhythms bounced around the car, the adults remained lost in their own thoughts.

Sam sat in the car, the weight of the silence pressing heavily between her and Mon. The quiet felt suffocating, and she could no longer ignore the growing ache of regret in her chest. She had wanted to reach out, to break the uncomfortable stillness that had settled over them, yet the right words eluded her. The thought of apologizing for her behavior gnawed at her conscience, especially considering how dismissive she had been when Mon was trying to explain herself.

It dawned on her just how hurtful it was to leave Mon in the lurch, especially at a time when she needed her girlfriend to believe in her.

In that moment, Sam acknowledged her own shortcomings. She had allowed Jane's words to cloud her judgment, twisting the situation in a way that painted Mon as the villain. It was so easy to get caught up in the drama of the moment, but Sam recognized the truth—she had known Mon for years, long enough to see past any lies or manipulations. Deep down, she had faith in Mon's character. She knew Mon would never intentionally harm anyone!  

As Sam settled into the car, she couldn't shake the feeling that it would be best to discuss everything with Mon once they arrived home. Zoe, usually cheerful and full of energy, was acting unusually fussy. Sam observed her daughter's furrowed brow and the way she clutched her favorite stuffed animal tightly, sensing that the whirlwind of events they had just experienced might be weighing heavily on the little girl's mind.

The day had been a rollercoaster of emotions—filled with laughter and excitement, but also some stressful moments that could easily overwhelm a child. Sam leaned back in her seat, contemplating the conversation she would have with Mon. It was important to her that Mon felt supported and understood. First and foremost, she needed to ensure that Zoe was comfortable and feeling secure after such a hectic day. Once they reached home and settled in, she would definitely take the time to talk to Mon about everything that had happened.

But first, she needs to make a stop...

Sam: Do you mind if I stop at my apartment for a few minutes? They have finished renovating it, and I need to check it before they leave. It will only take about twenty minutes.

And just like Sam has thought Mon only nooded her head. She was still looking out of the window. Sam could tell she was upset and disappointed with her.

But Sam was also determined to fix it after they get home.

Everything would be alright. She thought!

***

As they arrived at Sam's apartment building, the attendant from the Valley parking service immediately sprang into action upon recognizing their boss's vehicle. With a courteous demeanor, he swiftly approached the car and opened the door;. Sam stepped out, her presence commanding yet approachable, and with an air of familiarity, she moved to the passenger side to open the door for Mon.

Mon wanted nothing more than to remain in the comfort of the vehicle; but the moment her eyes landed on Sam, standing with the car door wide open and a welcoming smile, her resolve crumbled.