Page 30 of From Maybe to Baby

Ryan again:

Just had a brilliant idea - what if we pivot your whole brand?

No

Picture it: 'Adventures in Step-Parenting'

Absolutely not

'How to Travel with Tiny Humans: A Reluctant Guide'

I'm blocking you

Just think about it. And get me that coffee date story.

Back to Mom:

Remember what I always say about adventures, honey?

That they're better than stability?

That the scariest ones are usually worth taking

Mom, this isn't an adventure. This is a complication

Same thing, honey

Lucy sends the Instagram story. They're all laughing like it's the best moment ever.

Still not interested, Lex?

I hate you, Lu

No you don't. You hate that I know you better than you know yourself

When did this become a therapy session?

Around the time you started making excuses instead of admitting you like him

One more message from Mom:

Just promise me something, Alexa

What, Mom?

Don't say no because you're afraid of saying yes

I look at my phone, at all these people who know me too well, then at the dead laptop that started this mess. Through the balcony, I look at the pool where my life took this unexpected turn.

My phone buzzes one last time. It's Jonas, and my heart jumps into my throat.

This is bad. So, so bad.

Kids wanted to know if you like chocolate chip or blueberry pancakes better

I stare at the message for a long moment before replying:

Guess you'll find out tomorrow

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