Page 13 of Second Chance with the Single Dad Goalie
Keith groans. “Rosa, come on…”
“No, no,” I cut in, eyes still locked on hers. “Let’s hear it.” I wave a hand, signaling her to continue. “Go on. Tell me more.”
Rosa lifts a shoulder, feigning innocence. “What? I am just saying what we were all thinking. We’ve all talked about this and agreed that we were going to have a conversation with you about thisinfluencingthing.”
I blink, then let out a small, amused chuckle. "Oh? So, this is a group effort? Please, tell me more about this family meeting I wasn’t invited to." I rest my chin on my hand, feigning deep interest. "Wow. Should I have brought snacks?"
Janet sighs. "Whitney, we’re serious."
"So am I," I say lightly, reaching for my juice. "But please, continue."
Rosa sits up. "Look, we just think it’s time you start taking life more seriously. We all have careers. We work real jobs. Meanwhile, you’re out there making videos and posting pictures - you prance around, traveling from one place to another like life is some kind of endless vacation…"
"And working with global brands," I correct smoothly. "Don’t forget that part."
She rolls her eyes, while Edward sighs. "Come on, Whitney. You’re the only one doing something that…” He then pushes forward. "…that none of us can really be proud to talk about." hesitates but
I blink, then let out a short, humorless laugh. "Oh, this just keeps getting better."
"We just think - no, know - that you’re wasting your potential." Janet says. "It’s just…, social media influencing isn’t a real career. It’s not sustainable. One day, the trends change, the algorithm moves on, and then what?"
Edward nods, arms folded. “She is right, Whitney. We are just worried about you, baby sis.”
I turn to look at Keith who hasn’t said anything since. “Do you also think so? Do you support everything they are saying?”
“I…, I… Look Whit…,” he starts but mum cuts him off with a long-suffering sigh. “Sweetie, enough of the gallivanting. It’s time to stop,” she says with finality in her tone.
Dad’s brows pull together. "Gladys, and the rest of you, stop all of this, this instant. She literally just got back. Cut her some slack. Let her even rest. This conversation can be held sometime later."
Mom shakes her head. "No, Desmond. She has to hear this now. There’s help needed in the company and factory, and she is very much available, so…?" She gestures at me, like it’s an obvious solution.
I exhale slowly, then look at her. "Am I?" I press a hand to my chest, feigning surprise. "Wow, I had no idea I was unemployed and desperate for work. Thank you for letting me know."
Janet groans. "Whitney, come on, that’s not what she means…"
"But it is what she means," I say gently. "And honestly? This is exactly why coming home early was a bad idea."
I glance at my mom, expression softer now. "Mom, I know you worry. I know this isn’t what you expected for me. But Ilovewhat I do, and Iworked hardto get here. It might not be a jobyoucan proudly explain at dinner parties, but it makes me happy. And it pays my bills - very well, might I add."
I turn to Rosa, my voice light but firm. "And by the way? I do deal with difficult clients. Just because I don’t have someone storming into an office demanding last-minute changes doesn’t mean I don’t handle stress and negotiations." I flash a small smile. "But hey, I get paid to travel the world and work on my own terms. So, really…, who’swinninghere?"
The room falls silent.
Having had enough, I sigh and push up from my seat, adjusting my shirt. "Well, this has been so much fun. A lovely welcome home conversation, everyone. Truly heartwarming."
"Where are you going?" Keith and Dad ask at the same time.
I flash them both a small, tired smile. "Outside. I need a little fresh air before all this judgment suffocates me."
And with that, I walk out.
****
The evening air is crisp, cool against my skin. I shove my hands into my pockets and walk, not really thinking about where I’m going - just needing to be anywhere…, somewhere. My feet lead me down familiar streets, past houses with glowing windows, past the old bookstore, cafés I used to frequent, and some new stores.
Before I know it, I am standing in front ofSweet Bean Café,the cozy little coffee shop, which is one of the best cafés in town.
The bell above the door chimes as I step inside. The rich scent of roasted beans and warm pastries wraps around me like a hug. I exhale, already feeling better.
