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.