Amelia: Pouring coffee "Busy, as always. Work is picking up, and Liam keeps me on my toes."

Sophie: "I don't know how you do it all."

Amelia: "One day at a time."

They settled at the kitchen table.

Sophie: "Have you heard from...?"

Amelia's smile faded slightly.

Amelia: "No. Not for a while."

Sophie: "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have brought it up."

Amelia: "It's okay. I've come to terms with it."

Liam ran into the kitchen, holding a drawing.

Liam: "Mommy, look! I drew us!"

Amelia took the drawing, her eyes softening.

Amelia: "It's beautiful, Liam. Is this you and me?"

Liam: "Yes! And this is our house, and that's our dog!"

Amelia: Laughing "We don't have a dog, silly."

Liam: "But I want one!"

Sophie: Teasing "Maybe for your birthday?"

Liam: Eyes widening "Really?"

Amelia: Amused "We'll see."

Liam beamed and ran back to his toys.

Sophie: "He's such a happy kid."

Amelia: "He is. I'm grateful for that."

Sophie: Reaching across the table to touch her hand "You know, if you ever need anything, I'm here."

Amelia: "I know. Thank you."

They sat in comfortable silence for a moment.

Sophie: "So, tell me about work. Any exciting stories?"

Amelia: "Well, I've been freelancing for a few magazines. It's flexible, which is great for Liam's schedule."

Sophie: "That's fantastic. I always knew you'd make it on your own terms."

Amelia: Smiling "It's been a journey, but I wouldn't trade it for anything."

Liam returned, tugging at Amelia's sleeve.