But what would make her kick you out? She has no right to do that!
Sloane
I had a drinking problem when I was a teenager, and during one blackout, I did something bad. Something I don’t want to talk about. She’s held it over my head ever since, and when she thought I was drinking again, even though I wasn’t, she threw me out.
Mandy
That bitch!
Sloane
That’s not all…
I pause before typing anything else, knowing that once I say it, she’ll see a part of me no one here knows. I just hope she doesn’t start looking at me differently after this—or worse, think I never trusted her at all.
Sloane
When I was seventeen, I had a baby. His name is Milo and she has him. She says I can’t get him back until I have my own place, and clearly, I don’t.
A response doesn’t come, and I think that’s it, she hates me.
Until my phone dings again.
Mandy
She took him from you? Oh, hell no. We’re going to get him back.
I blink back the tears, a smile etching. I never should’ve doubted her.
Sloane
Trust me, I’ve tried. She hates me.
Mandy
Why don’t you ask Kirill for help? I bet he would.
Sloane
I really don't want to get him involved unless I have to. Just promise me you won't say anything.
Mandy
Of course not, but you shouldn't have to do all of this alone, babe. You have people who care about you. Let us help.
I grip the phone against my chest, grateful that I have her.
Sloane
I love you, Mandy. I don’t say that enough, but I do.
Mandy
Shh, stop making me cry ova here. I love you too. You’re like a sister to me.
Sloane
Now I’m the one who’s crying. Sheesh. Okay, let me go down for breakfast before Kirill thinks I’m slipping on my nanny duties.
