“Don’t even start.”
“I’m just saying, he’s cute.” I took his place beside her. “And caring too.”
“I’ve told you before, we’re just—”
“Friends,” I cut her off, leaning against the backrest. “I hear you.”
We laughed lightly, our shoulders trembling in sync.
“Howareyou?” she asked, her voice soft and tender.
My smile gradually vanished from my face, replaced by something plastic. “Never better.”
I sounded just like Adrik.
Fuck.
She took my hand, her eyes boring into mine. “You do realize that as your mother, I’m the one person who can see through your lies.”
I hesitated. “I’m not lying.”
“Your eyes.” She placed a palm on my cheek. “They don’t seem as bright anymore.”
I pressed my lips into a thin line, refusing to let those emotions back in.
“Do you know what I see when I look at you?”
“What?” I asked, curious.
Mom held my gaze. “A strong, independent woman who’s survived what’s killed others.” She paused, watching me closely. “But that’s what’s on the outside.”
“And on the inside?” I indulged her.
“You’re lonely.”
I felt my tear glands start to fill up and began rapidly blinking.
“Just like I was before Greg,” she continued, her fingers locked around mine. “You’re too young to be alone, Emi—too young to carry the weight on your shoulders.”
I lost the battle against my tears.
“I’m sorry,” she murmured. “I’m sorry that I’m not strong enough to help you with this weight.”
“What’re you talking about?” I burst into sobs.
“I wasn’t born yesterday,” she answered. “I know you can’t tell me what’s eating you up because you’re worried about my health.” She wiped my tears with her thumb. “I wanna hear you out so badly. But I know my daughter. No matter what I say, you won’t speak until you think I’m ready to handle it.”
I drew a deep, long breath, trying to be strong. “It’s nothing serious, Mom.”
“It has something to do with that young man, doesn’t it?” she asked. “The one you came here with months ago.”
I hesitated. “We’re…we’re not really on speaking terms.”
“Can I ask why?”
I chuckled, gently squeezing her fingers. “Let’s save it for some other time.”
“I’ve never met someone as secretive as you.” She tapped my face.
