Chapter 11
I sat there, stunned, as Ethan’s words hung in the air. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. My three–year–old son was analyzing people’s behavior, testing their character, and making judgments about who would make a good father figure.
As I looked at Ethan, I felt a mix of emotions. Pride, amazement, and a hint of guilt. Guilt for not realizing sooner how smart and perceptive my son was. Guilt for not being able to provide him with a stable and loving family environment.
I thought back to my marriage with Harris. I had been so blinded by love and the promise of a happy family that I had ignored all the red flags. And now, my son was paying the price for my mistakes.
As I reflected on my past, I realized that I had been given a second chance. A chance to make things right, to provide Ethan with the love and stability he deserved.
And then there was Russo. Ethan’s words had sparked a curiosity in me. Who was this man, really? Why had he played along with Ethan’s charade? And what did he want from us?!
As I pondered these questions while looking at Ethan.
“Ethan,” I said, breaking the silence. “Let’s go home, okay?“}]
Ethan nodded, and we continued driving in silence. But my mind was racing with thoughts and questions, and I knew that I wouldn’t be able to rest until I had some answers.
At night, after making Ethan get to sleep I picked up my phone and searched Russo’s profile. Soon, my newsfeed got filled with Russo’s pictures, signing big deals in seven star hotels, shaking hands with the president of several countries, hosting charity auctions and inaugurating his funding company for poors.
This was the moment I realized the man I met today was not an ordinary person. I searched more about him and came to know that he was not just the richest billionaire in our country, but in the whole continent. He was tagged as “The most eligible bachelor of USA” by many magazines. Russo had a powerful personality, more than I expected.
“Sorry, Ethan,” I whispered in a low voice, “Uncle Russo can’t be your Daddy. He is out of our league.“}
The next day, Ethan asked me if I considered Russo. I gently refused him and said anyone can be his Daddy but him. He didn’t talk to me for three days and agreed to let it go only if I create a profile in an online dating app.
Though hating the idea of blind dates, I gave up on my son and created an account on one of the dating apps, selected by my son. Ever since that day my phone was filled with messages like->
“Hey beautiful, are you a magician? Every time I look at your profile, everyone else disappears“>
“Hi, I’m Max. Saw your profile and thought you seemed interesting. What do you like to do for fun?“}
“Hey, I’m not going to beat around the bush. I think you’re gorgeous and I’d love to take you out for a drink. When are you free?“>
“Hi, I saw that you like hiking. I’m actually planning a trip to Yellowstone next month. Have you been?“}
“Are you a fan of cosplay? I have a great Darth Vader costume and I’m looking for someone to share it with”
“Hi, how’s it going?“}
“I must say, your profile is absolutely captivating! I’m a writer and I’d love to write a story about someone as fascinating as you. Would you like to chat more?“}
I didn’t reply to any of these messages until my son got my phone and fixed my date with a random guy, telling me on the day of our date. I couldn’t ghost a guy after inviting him on a date. So, I had to go.
Ethan even called a beautician at home and forced me to get some makeover done on my face.
I stood in front of the mirror, staring at my reflection. I was feeling nervous as I hadn’t been on a date in years.
Just as I was starting to feel anxious, I heard a tiny voice behind me, “Mommy, Aunt Jenna has arrived. She will make you look more beautiful”
Jenna, my friend who was also a beautician, arrived, armed with her makeup bag and hair styling tools. Ethan watched with great interest as she worked her magic, transforming me into a radiant and confident version of myself.
As Jenna finished up, Ethan clapped his hands in excitement.
‘Mommy, you look beautiful!” he exclaimed.”
I smiled, feeling a sense of pride and gratitude towards my son.
“Thank you, baby,” I said, hugging him tightly. “I couldn’t have done it without you.“}]
***
I was standing in front of the five star restaurant, the other person had selected us for our date. My phone buzzed with my son’s message. I smiled reading his message. He wished me luck, I sent him a heart emoji and then walked in.§
I was looking for the table booked for us that my gaze landed on a person I wanted to see the least at the moment. It was Harris, having dinner with Cindy and Layla. His eyes met mine. Following his gaze, Cindy turned to look at me as well. They both stared at me from top to bottom before Cindy stood up from her chair and walked up to me, saying, “
