CHAPTER THREE🥀

Emily walks into her home, the warmth of familiarity wrapping around her like a comforting blanket. The small house is simple yet cozy, filled with the soft scent of freshly baked bread mingling with the faint aroma of lavender from her mother’s diffuser.

The sun has begun to set, casting a golden hue through the small windows, reflecting off the worn wooden floors. A collection of knick-knacks, family photos, and handmade decorations dot the living room, each one holding a memory, a piece of their life together.

Emily hangs her backpack on the wooden coat rack by the door, its hooks slightly bent from years of use. She can hear the faint clatter of pots and pans coming from the kitchen, along with the gentle hum of her mother’s favorite radio station playing in the background. The soft, soulful voice of a classic singer fills the air, creating a serene atmosphere.

Emily takes a deep breath. Her mind drifts back to the day she had—how different it was, how light and warm she felt for the first time in a long while.

She’s eager to share this feeling with her mother.

As she steps into the kitchen, she finds her mother, Maria, standing at the stove, stirring a pot of soup.

The kitchen is small but efficient, with every space utilized. The countertops are cluttered with ingredients, bowls, and utensils, a testament to the baking that likely took place earlier in the day.

Maria is a petite woman in her early forties, with gentle lines etched into her face from years of hard work and worry, yet her eyes still hold a youthful sparkle. Her dark hair is pulled back into a loose bun, and she’s wearing a floral apron that has seen better days.

Emily pauses for a moment, watching her mother, her heart swelling with affection and a tinge of guilt. She knows how much her mother has sacrificed for her, how hard she works to keep things afloat. The thought of disappointing her, or worse, worrying her, is a constant shadow in the back of her mind.

“Mom, I’m home,” Emily finally announces, stepping further into the kitchen.

Maria turns, a warm smile spreading across her face at the sight of her daughter. “Hey, sweetheart. How was school today?” she asks, her voice carrying that soft, nurturing tone that always makes Emily feel safe.

Emily smiles back, moving to the small wooden table in the corner of the kitchen. She pulls out a chair, the legs scraping slightly against the floor, and sits down. “It was…different,” she begins, her tone reflecting her mixed emotions.

Maria raises an eyebrow, turning off the stove after dinner was prepared and wiping her hands on her apron before joining Emily at the table. She sits across from her, her eyes filled with curiosity and concern. “Different how? Did something happen?”

Emily fidgets with the hem of her sweater, trying to find the right words. “Well, I spent most of the day with a new friend,” she says slowly, watching her mother’s reaction. “Her name is Elena Ortega. She’s new to our school, and…she’s been really nice to me.”

Maria’s eyebrows lift slightly at the mention of a new friend. She leans back in her chair, folding her arms across her chest. “Elena Ortega? That’s a beautiful name. Is she the reason you’re smiling so much today?”

Emily nods, her smile widening as she thinks about the day. “Yeah, she’s amazing, Mom. She’s confident, smart, and really kind. I’ve never had a friend like her before. She treated me like real person and listened to my thoughts. It was a great experience .”

Maria’s expression softens, but there’s a hint of concern in her eyes. “That’s wonderful, Emily. I’m so glad you’ve found someone who treats you well. But…” She hesitates, choosing her words carefully. “You mentioned she’s new. Do you know much about her? Where she’s from, her family?”

Emily bites her lower lip, feeling the weight of her mother’s unspoken worries. “She’s from a wealthy family…really wealthy. They’re originally from Spain, but they’ve lived in America for a very long time too. Her father is a big deal in business, and she’s got two brothers,one younger and one older. That’s, well, basically all I know about her”

Maria nods slowly, processing this information. “I see. It sounds like she comes from a very different world than ours.”

Emily nods, her gaze dropping to the table. “Yeah, but She doesn’t treat me like I’m any different. She doesn’t care that I don’t have fancy clothes or a big house. She just…likes me for who I am and that’s a breath of fresh air.”

Maria reaches across the table, placing her hand over Emily’s. Her touch is warm, reassuring. “That’s good to hear, sweetheart. It’s important to have friends who see you for who you really are. But just be careful, okay? Sometimes, people from different backgrounds might not fully understand what it’s like to live the way we do. And…you know how things can be.”

Emily knows what her mother is hinting at—the difference in their social status, the potential for misunderstandings or even pity. It’s a concern she’s had herself, but she doesn’t want to let it dampen the excitement she feels about her new friendship.

“I know, Mom,” Emily replies softly. “I thought she was only putting on an act but it turns she’s different. She doesn’t make me feel small or out of place. She even offered to give me a ride home today. I have to admit that I was a little skeptical of her finding out where I lived.”

Maria’s eyes soften further, a mix of concern and sadness crossing her features. “Oh, Emily. You don’t have to be ashamed of where we live. This is our home, and it’s filled with love. That’s what matters most. If she’s really your friend, she won’t care about that.”

Emily nods “You’re right, Mom. She didn’t care and it meant a lot. She would have come in but she had some issues to take care of”

Maria squeezes her hand gently. “That’s good. I’m glad you found an amazing friend. The constant smile you have on right now suits you. You deserve to have good people in your life, Emily.”

Emily feels tears prick at the corners of her eyes. Her mother’s unwavering support and wisdom always touch her deeply. “Thanks, Mom. I needed to hear that.”

Maria smiles warmly, her eyes shining with love. “Just remember, you don’t have to hide who you are from anyone. You’re a wonderful, brilliant, kind-hearted young woman, your status shouldn’t matter and anyone who can’t see that isn’t worth your time.”

There’s a moment of silence as Emily absorbs her mother’s words.

Maria studies Emily’s face for a moment before her expression shifts slightly. “Oh, by the way,” she begins, her tone changing to something more lighthearted, “Liam stopped by earlier today.”

Emily’s eyes widen slightly in surprise. “He did? Why didn’t he text me?” she asks, leaning forward with curiosity.

“He came by this afternoon, asked about you,” Maria explains, a playful glint in her eyes. “I told him you were at school, of course. He stayed for a little while and even helped me with some of the housework. You know how he is—always willing to lend a hand.”

Emily can’t help but smile at the thought of Liam helping her mom around the house. “That sounds like him,” she says fondly. “He’s always been so thoughtful.”

Maria nods in agreement. “He really is. He’s such a nice guy, and you know, his hard work is starting to pay off. He mentioned something about getting more gigs with his music. It seems like things are finally moving in the right direction for him.”

Emily feels a swell of pride for Liam. He’s been working tirelessly on his music, pouring his heart and soul into it despite the challenges. “That’s great news! I’m so happy for him,” she says sincerely.

Maria’s eyes twinkle mischievously as she leans in a bit closer. “You know, I’ve been thinking…Liam is such a sweet boy, always so considerate and helpful. I can’t help but wonder if he might have a little crush on you.”

Emily’s cheeks flush at her mother’s words, and she immediately shakes her head in frustration. “Mooom, no, he doesn’t! We’re just friends, that’s all. Liam has been my friend for over a year now. There’s nothing more to it.”

Maria laughs softly, clearly amused by Emily’s reaction. “Oh, sweetheart, I’m just teasing you. But you never know, sometimes feelings can develop over time, especially when two people care about each other as much as you and Liam do.”

Emily sighs, trying to suppress her frustration. “Mom, please. Liam and I are just friends. We’ve never been anything more than that.”

Maria nods, her expression softening again. “I understand. I just want you to be open to the possibility that things could change, that’s all. But if you’re happy with the way things are, then that’s what matters most.”

Emily takes a deep breath, letting her mother’s words sink in. She knows her mom only wants the best for her, but the idea of Liam having a crush on her feels so strange. She’s never thought of him that way…he’s always just been her dependable, loyal friend.

“I know you’re just looking out for me, Mom,” Emily says softly. “But trust me, there’s nothing romantic between Liam and me. We’re just good friends.”

Maria smiles warmly. “I know, sweetheart. And I’m glad you have a friend like Liam in your life. He’s a good one.”

Emily nods, returning her mother’s smile. “He really is,” she agrees. “And I’m lucky to have him.”

“So, tell me how classes had been” her mom prompts gently.

She nods and begins to describe how the few classes had gone and the chicken she had….all the time, with Elena by her side.

As she talks, Maria listens attentively, her eyes filled with warmth and pride. It’s clear that she’s happy to see her daughter finding joy and connection, something that has been missing from Emily’s life for far too long.

After her conversation with her mother, Emily headed to her room to freshen up before dinner.

The room was small but cozy, with soft yellow hue walls adorned with a few posters of her favorite books and movies. Her bed, neatly made with a faded quilt, sat against one wall, while a small wooden table cluttered with textbooks and notes occupied the opposite side.

She walked over to her closet and pulled out her nightwear—a simple, light blue cotton pajama set with tiny white stars scattered across it. The fabric was soft and comfortable.

After changing out of her school clothes, she slipped into the pajamas.

Emily then moved to the small mirror atop her dresser. She looked at her reflection, noting the tiredness in her eyes, the way her glasses had slightly indented the bridge of her nose.

She reached up and carefully removed her glasses, folding them neatly and placing them on the dresser. Without them, she could still clearly although not as good as with the glasses influence, but she was used to it by now. She ran a hand through her dark brown hair, smoothing it down from where it had become slightly tousled during the day.

With a satisfied yet tired sigh, Emily glanced at her phone, which sat charging on her nightstand. She picked it up, pressing the button to check the time.

It was just past 7:00 PM—still early enough for dinner, but late enough that she knew she’d be winding down soon afterward. No new messages or notifications, just the simple, familiar lock screen image of a sunset over a calm lake, a picture she had taken on one of the rare family outings when her father was still alive.

Satisfied that she still had a bit of time before dinner, Emily set her phone back down and took one last look at herself in the mirror.

She suddenly remembers something and feels a mix of emotions—the Club invitation. She felt nervous about it,  uncertain of her mother’s reaction to it, and a small but growing curiosity about what she might experience if she went.

Taking a deep breath, she headed back to the kitchen to join her mother for dinner.

The kitchen is cozy, with the soft hum of the refrigerator filling the space. The scent of warm, homemade vegetable stew lingers in the air, mingling with the aroma of freshly baked bread that Maria prepared earlier in the day.

The small wooden table is set for two, with mismatched plates and simple utensils. Outside, the crickets chirp their nightly tune, and a gentle breeze rustles the leaves of the trees nearby.

Emily and her mom are seated at the table, bowls of stew steaming in front of them. They’ve just finished saying their prayers, and now the quiet clinking of spoons against bowls fills the air as they begin to eat.

There’s a comfortable silence between them. But beneath the surface, Emily is feeling more nervous, knowing she needs to bring up the invitation Elena gave her earlier in the day.

As they eat, Maria glances at her daughter, sensing that something is on her mind. “You’re quiet tonight, Emily,” she observes gently, her eyes filled with warmth and curiosity. “Is everything okay?”

Emily swallows her mouthful of stew and nods, but she can’t quite meet her mother’s gaze. “Yeah, everything’s fine,” she says quickly, but there’s a hint of hesitation in her voice. She takes a deep breath, deciding it’s now or never.

“Actually, there’s something I wanted to talk to you about.”

Maria hesitates but sets her spoon down and leans forward slightly, giving her daughter her full attention. “Of course, sweetheart. What is it?” she asks, her voice soft and encouraging.

Emily fiddles with the edge of her napkin, trying to find the right words. “Well, today when I was dropped off, Elena invited me to something,” she begins slowly, watching her mother’s expression carefully. “It’s… it’s a party. At a club. She said she usually doesn’t go to these kinds of things, but she thought it might be fun if I went with her.”

Maria’s eyes widen slightly in surprise, and she leans back in her chair, considering her daughter’s words. “A club?” she repeats, her tone neutral but with a hint of concern. “That’s… unexpected. Have you ever been to a club before?”

Emily shakes her head quickly. “No, never,” she admits. “And honestly, I’m not sure if it’s really my thing. But Elena was really encouraging about it. She thinks it could be a good experience for me, you know, to get out of my comfort zone a little.”

Maria is quiet for a moment, her eyes searching Emily’s face for any signs of doubt or fear. “I see,” she says slowly, her voice thoughtful. “And how do you feel about it, Emily? Do you want to go?”

Emily hesitates, biting her lower lip as she considers her answer. “I don’t know,” she says honestly.

“Part of me is curious, but another part of me is nervous. I’ve never really been to any social event like that, and I’m not sure I’d fit in. Most of the people there will probably be more like Elena—wealthy, confident, outgoing. I don’t know if I’d really belong.”

Maria reaches across the table, gently placing her hand over Emily’s. “Sweetheart, it’s natural to feel that way,” she says softly. “You’ve always been a bit more introverted, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But sometimes, stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to new experiences, new opportunities. I’m not saying you have to go, but it might be worth considering.”

Emily looks down at her mother’s hand on hers, feeling the warmth and love radiating from the simple touch. “I just don’t want to feel out of place,” she murmurs. “And I don’t want you to worry.”

Maria smiles gently, giving her daughter’s hand a reassuring squeeze. “Emily, I’ll always worry about you, no matter what” she says with a soft laugh. “But I also trust you to make good decisions. If you decide to go, I want you to be careful and listen to your instincts. If at any point you feel uncomfortable, you have every right to leave. But if you do go, try to have a little fun too. You deserve that.”

Emily smiles back, feeling a wave of relief wash over her. “Thanks, Mom,” she says quietly. “I’ll think about it. I’m still not sure, but it’s nice to know you’re okay with it.”

Maria nods, her eyes understanding. “Of course, Darling. I want you to have experiences and enjoy life. You’ve spent so much time focused on school and helping out at home, and I’m proud of you for that. But you’re young, and there’s a lot out there for you to see and do. Just remember that you don’t have to be anyone but yourself.”

Emily’s smile widens, and she feels a sense of peace settle over her. “I will, Mom. And I’ll let you know what I decide.”

They both return to their meal, the conversation leaving a warm, comforting feeling in the air.

As they eat, Maria’s mind drifts, considering the possibilities for her daughter. She knows Emily has always been cautious, but she also knows that Elena’s friendship has brought a new spark into her life. Maybe this invitation is a chance for Emily to experience something different, to see the world through a new lens.

After a few minutes of quiet eating, Maria looks up at her daughter again, a thoughtful expression on her face. “You know, Emily, I think it’s good that you’re making friends like Elena,” she says softly. “She seems like a positive influence, and it’s clear she cares about you. It’s important to have people in your life who encourage you to try new things.”

Emily nods, her heart warming at her mother’s words. “Yeah, Elena’s been really great. I didn’t expect to make a friend like her, especially so quickly. She’s so different from anyone I’ve ever known, but in a good way.”

Maria smiles, a hint of pride in her eyes. “I’m glad to hear that. And who knows? Maybe this party will be a chance for you to see another side of life. Just remember that you don’t have to do anything you’re not comfortable with. You’re in control of your own choices.”

Emily nods again, feeling more confident now. “I’ll keep that in mind, Mom. Thanks.”

“Anytime, sweetheart,” Maria replies warmly. “Now, let’s finish this delicious stew that I took time to prepare before it gets cold.”

The conversation shifts to lighter topics as they continue their meal. Now Emily was reassured that whatever she decides, she has her mother’s support.

After dinner, Emily and her mother worked together to clear the table and wash the dishes. The familiar routine was comforting, and they exchanged a few words here and there, enjoying the quiet evening. Once the last dish was dried and put away, Maria turned to Emily with a warm smile.

“Thanks for your help, sweetie. I’m going to head to bed now. Goodnight,” Maria said, giving her a gentle hug and kiss on her forehead.

“Goodnight, Mom,” she replied, hugging her back.

They each went to their rooms, and the house grew still. Emily entered her room, feeling the quiet settle around her. She slid under the covers of her bed, the softness of the sheets soothing her.

As she lay back, her thoughts drifted to Elena’s invitation. The idea of going to the club made her feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. Would she fit in? What would Elena’s friends think of her?

Emily stared up at the ceiling, her mind racing with questions. She wondered if she should step out of her comfort zone and say yes, or if it was safer to decline. The decision weighed heavily on her as she turned onto her side, trying to imagine what the night might be like.

With a sigh, Emily closed her eyes, knowing she needed to give Elena an answer tomorrow. The thoughts continued to swirl in her mind until sleep finally took over, leaving the decision unresolved for now.

.

To be continued…

…Authoress Cass🤍