And Savannah had to cope with two, alone.
A tsk slides from my lips.
‘Oh my goodness. I can’t even imagine,’ Abby clucks. ‘I used to moan if Callum was away for the night. I would have cracked up with two on my own.’
‘It was tough.’ Savannah pauses. ‘But I wouldn’t be without the girls for anything in the world.’
‘How are you finding things now? You’re certainly setting a stellar example to all the single mams of the country.’
‘Things are easier in some respects, but every age brings a different set of challenges. At least the girls are at an age where they can tell me what’s wrong, if they’re in pain or need something. Sometimes I wish there were two of me, so I can shower them both with more attention, but I give everything I can, and I think it’s important that they see Mammy following her own dreams too.
‘I try to set the example that women can be and do whatever they want to be, whether they’re working or a stay-at-home mother, whether they’re married or single.’
‘You are a wonderful role model, for your daughters, and for women in general,’ Abby says.
I like Abby. Specifically, I like the way she didn’t limit Savannah’s influence to just single mothers.
‘Thank you.’ Savannah clears her throat.
‘You have your blog, and your book, and your fabulous infant clothing range. Your success is inspirational. And now, I believe you have some exciting news to share with us.’
‘Yes. Yes, I do.’ Savannah clears her throat. ‘I’m so excited to announce I’ve been appointed the role of ambassador for Coral Chic. I absolutely adore their swimwear range. It’s soflattering for women of all shapes and sizes. It’s elegant. It’s durable. And it’s more sculpting than a pair of Spanx.’
‘Congratulations,’ Abby coos and offers a round of applause. ‘What a privilege.’
‘Thank you. I’m excited to work with them.’
‘I’ll bet,’ Abby says. ‘Lucas Beechwood is fairly easy on the eye as far as bosses go. Tell us, Savannah, would you consider dating?’
Eugh. Lucas fucking Beechwood.
There’s silence for a long beat.
‘I…. err…’ Savannah stammers.
My heart pounds like a war drum, every cell in my body willing her to admit that she’s mine. That there’s something between us.
‘Sorry, that was awful of me,’ Abby backtracks. ‘What a position to put you in! You’re Single Sav. Of course, you’re not considering dating. I get carried away sometimes, trying to matchmake everyone since I found Callum.’ Abby laughs and after a short pause Savannah joins in.
‘So, if there’s one bit of advice you could give to the women of the country, whether they’re mothers or not, what would it be?’ Abby gets back to the interview.
Savannah exhales a breathy hum like she’s considering her answer carefully. ‘I have two pieces of advice. The first being, don’t get stuck being the person other people want you to be. Don’t put limits on what you want to achieve. Don’t let anyone put you in a box and expect you to stay there because that’s what they’re comfortable with. You can achieve anything you put your mind to. Anything. Test yourself. Push your own boundaries. Reach for the stars. Anything is possible.’
‘That’s wonderful advice.’ Abby’s awe-filled tone swamps the car.
Even through my disappointment, I feel like givingSavannah a standing ovation. She’s an amazing role model for women.
‘What was the second thing?’ Abby asks.
Savannah chuckles, sounding way more comfortable with this line of conversation. ‘Always have something prepared for dinner. Hanger is real. When the twins get hangry, all hell breaks loose.’
Abby’s laughter mingles with Savannah’s.
‘So, what’s for dinner in your house tonight, Savannah?’
‘Hell’s wrath, unless I can throw together something really fast.’ She snorts. ‘I was away this weekend and am still reel– recovering from it, so I’m not as prepared as I usually am.’
Was she about to say reeling from it?