Page 67 of Manic

I find myself smiling at the thought of him, of the way he's stepped up for Tindra.

"Earth to Meghan," Dasha's voice breaks through my reverie. "You okay? You zoned out for a second there."

I blink, focusing on her concerned face. "Yeah, sorry. Just... thinking."

She leans forward, a knowing look in her eyes. "About a certain tall, dark, and handsome biker, perhaps?"

I feel heat creep into my cheeks. "Maybe," I admit reluctantly.

Dasha's smile softens. "It's good to see you happy, Meg. You deserve it."

I swallow hard, fighting back a sudden wave of emotion. "Thanks," I manage. "It's just... complicated, you know?"

She reaches across the table, squeezing my hand. "Love always is. But from what I've seen, that man adores you and Tindra both."

I nod, unable to deny it.

Tor has been nothing short of amazing, seamlessly integrating himself into our lives.

It’s no shock to me that we’re making up for lost time, but he’s determined to be the best father he can be.

"He really has stepped up," I say softly. "Sometimes I look at him with Tindra and it's like... like we never really ended, you know? Like we just picked up right where we left off."

Dasha's eyes shine with understanding. "That's rare, Meg. Don't let fear hold you back from something good."

I take a deep breath, her words hitting home. "You're right. I'm trying. It's just..."

"One day at a time," she finishes for me, echoing my own mantra.

I smile gratefully. "Exactly."

The sudden chime of the door opening startles us both. I glance at my watch, realizing how much time has passed.

"Shit, we need to get ready to open," I say, sliding out of the booth.

Dasha nods, following suit. "I'll start on the job postings this afternoon. We'll have this place running even smoother in no time."

As we move to our tasks, I feel a renewed sense of purpose.

Between the success of the café and the unexpected joy of my reunited family, life is looking up.

I just hope I can hold onto this happiness, despite the nagging fear that still lingers in the back of my mind.

The clock strikes noon, and I breathe a sigh of relief as I untie my apron.

Tindra's already waiting by the counter, her eyes bright with excitement.

"Ready for our shopping date?" I ask, grabbing two lattes to go.

She nods eagerly, accepting her drink. "So ready. Thanks, Mom."

I look around the shop, "Did your dad leave already?"

Tindra nods, "Yeah, said he had to get back to the club. So, he walked me in and then left."

As we step out into the warm Tallahassee sun, I can't help but marvel at how much my life has changed in such a short time.

The drive to Governor's Square is filled with Tindra's excited chatter about the latest fashion trends she's been eyeing online.

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