{"id":1048,"date":"2024-11-22T03:08:59","date_gmt":"2024-11-22T03:08:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/momentsunfolded.com\/?p=1048"},"modified":"2024-11-22T03:09:02","modified_gmt":"2024-11-22T03:09:02","slug":"my-daughter-left-college-for-a-boyfriend-my-age-until-he-arrived-at-my-door-with-shocking-secrets-story-of-the-day-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/momentsunfolded.com\/archives\/1048","title":{"rendered":"My Daughter Left College for a Boyfriend My Age Until He Arrived at My Door with Shocking Secrets \u2013 Story of the Day"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class='\"PostImage_post-image-container__PlDZN' postcontent_thumb-image__ih052>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"' data-testid='\"thumb-image\"'><picture><img decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' postimage_post-image__xnmzf src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/6a3b02d0620d231dc6ec0887ae45793df4edfca0227e4ee955afda45e5687d47.png%5C%22" alt='\"Thoughtful' woman standing by the window source: midjourney>\n\n<div class='\"PostContent_thumb-title__SoMYI\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>Thoughtful woman standing by the window\n<div>\n<div class='\"ContentRenderer_content-container__XYPLT\"' data-io-article-url='\"https:\/\/amomama.com\/441132-my-daughter-left-college-for-a-boyfriend.html?m=doa\"'>\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36' contentrenderer_paragraph-first___d_vf>I thought I had built a strong, independent life for myself and my daughter Megan. But when she arrived one evening with Grayson, a man older than me with secrets of his own, I felt my world tilt. I never imagined how deeply he would change everything for both of us.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I spent years building my life: a successful career, a cozy seaside home, and raising my daughter, Megan, all on my own. But sometimes, in the quiet moments, I felt the ache of something missing\u2014maybe the comfort of a partner, a steady shoulder to lean on when life felt heavy.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>That night, I had planned a warm evening with Megan. I set the table carefully, lit candles, and waited with a hopeful heart.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/TDQI8nu7i9vaDCkal7XG74QEmE625Sf4NqHPKzVjAjw\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNDI0MTcwMmFkOWVkMTYwYmUzNzA4NTZhYjliOTdlN2VhZTk4YzA2ODkyZTIxM2QxOTYwNzQ0M2E4NjI5NzE0Mi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/4241702ad9ed160be370856ab9b97e7eae98c06892e213d19607443a86297142.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMom, this is Grayson,\u201d Megan said a few hours later, clinging to the arm of a man who looked older than me.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He was tall, with a polished suit and a steady, confident smile.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cErica, pleasure to meet you,\u201d he said, extending his hand.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cLikewise, Grayson. Megan didn\u2019t mention\u2026 a guest,\u201d I replied, forcing a polite smile.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Megan laughed, but it sounded strained. \u201cI thought it would be a nice surprise.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/ISTBrBNZfZYnvo-L8gYgwW5dOuod9xEXgryC57-xgu8\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vM2U5ZTQyYzQyMjc4OTBkYzdhNTczMTRiMmExZWQzMzFkYTc1Y2JjNjIzNzVhZjkzOGNjZmY5YmUyZjdjNGFiMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/3e9e42c4227890dc7a57314b2a1ed331da75cbc62375af938ccff9be2f7c4ab3.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Grayson\u2019s eyes scanned the room as if assessing its worth.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I sat across from them, feeling an uncomfortable silence growing.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cSo, Grayson,\u201d I ventured, \u201cwhat do you do?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cFinance. Investments,\u201d he answered smoothly, taking a sip from his glass without another glance.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cFinance, huh?\u201d I murmured, glancing at Megan. \u201cAnd Megan, how\u2019s university?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<blockquote class='\"ContentRenderer_blockquote__DAX00\"'>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMom\u2026 maybe university isn\u2019t the answer to everything.\u201d\n\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/4QbBtUMzNeaJE0jDjzWRe8CIKrX76Wix8JHJis2Rrn4\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNTA0NGQ3ZTdlYmQ1ZDQ1MGFhMWM0YTFjM2VmNGI1ZDY0Y2QzNzM5Yjg0MjI0OTlkN2VkYWViM2U4YzU1M2Y5MC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/5044d7e7ebd5d450aa1c4a1c3ef4b5d64cd3739b8422499d7edaeb3e8c553f90.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhat are you saying?\u201d I asked, trying to keep calm. \u201cWe worked so hard to get you there, remember?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<blockquote class='\"ContentRenderer_blockquote__DAX00\"'>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWith Grayson, I feel free. He understands me in a way no one else does.\u201d\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>My irritation bubbling up. \u201cAnd how long has\u2026 this been going on?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Grayson stood, adjusting his cufflinks with a slight, dismissive smile. \u201cIf you\u2019ll excuse me, I\u2019ll step outside for a moment.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/_2G70c2M_2B9L20xfwOq7v-1VH8XwLZYHT-M7viz_nI\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNmU1NjAxYTE2MDI0Mjc0OWE3Yzk5NTE0YjcyOTUwMDdhY2EzNTc1ZTMxMzExZTVkNGIyNWZjZTRjOTFiNWE3OC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/6e5601a160242749a7c99514b7295007aca3575e31311e5d4b25fce4c91b5a78.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>As soon as he was gone, I turned back to Megan, the words spilling out.\n\n</p><div>\n<blockquote class='\"ContentRenderer_blockquote__DAX00\"'>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMegan, what are you doing with him? He\u2019s\u2026\u201d\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cOlder?\u201d she shot back, with a stubborn look in her eyes. \u201cMaybe that\u2019s exactly what I need.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cBut, Megan\u2026 he\u2019s not just older. He\u2019s from a different world. You barely know him!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI know enough. With him, I don\u2019t have to worry about grades or career plans. I can just\u2026 breathe.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/zEoaX5xxENZNvHGi-RueUn3-aUMuN7fxxkDuDEsbVKo\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTY5NzI3ODAxYWM2NGIwM2E3MGQ1MDQ5MzQyNDQ5MDBiM2FmMDMxZjMxMDQ4YTE2YTkwYWE5NDQ3NjIwN2M5ZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/a69727801ac64b03a70d504934244900b3af031f31048a16a90aa94476207c9d.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<blockquote class='\"ContentRenderer_blockquote__DAX00\"'>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cBut we\u2019ve worked so hard for your future. You\u2019re almost done with university, Megan. Don\u2019t throw it all away for someone else\u2019s dreams.\u201d\n\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_1\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_01\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_1-0\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>She rolled her eyes. \u201cThat\u2019s the thing, Mom. Maybe your idea of a future isn\u2019t the same as mine. Grayson understands that. He\u2019s lived. He\u2019s seen the world. He knows what it means to enjoy life instead of always planning for the next step.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cEnjoy life? Megan, you must make your own way, or you\u2019ll always depend on someone else,\u201d I said firmly. And if you drop out of college\u2026 don\u2019t expect me to support you financially. You\u2019ll be on your own.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/yNhTG7nLQFXYMHMWZDeM5qDiXVjhxV1N93KvxO0FCWY\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMjQ1MGI1YmFkOWZjM2ExNDQ3NDJjNjAxNzUxZjkzNDE3YTNmZTdjMGMxMjU3MjZlMjQyYTljNWE1YzQ2NjVhMC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/2450b5bad9fc3a144742c601751f93417a3fe7c0c125726e242a9c5a5c4665a0.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<blockquote class='\"ContentRenderer_blockquote__DAX00\"'>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cPfft, great! I have Grayson\u2019s money. I don\u2019t need yours.\u201d\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cLet\u2019s see how long that lasts,\u201d I replied, hoping she\u2019d realize what she was risking. \u201cYou two should leave in the morning.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_2\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_02\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_2-1\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Megan&rsquo;s face flushed, and she turned without another word, storming off.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>That evening, we sat in silence, barely touching our meals. Despite everything happened, Megan seemed to hope I would soften toward Grayson. Suddenly, a sharp knock shattered the silence.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/Tj7K3cIe3xSsmyUueTXwI2QWKYEmv4hWWIB-L6EBSLw\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZjRjYWZmMjIxMzQ5YTNjMjMzNjc1ODE2ZjU2MWFkNWYyYWMwZDBiZmFhNzRkYmZlODlmYmExZjNlZTkwOGMwNS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/f4caff221349a3c233675816f561ad5f2ac0d0bfaa74dbfe89fba1f3ee908c05.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Megan opened the door, and there stood a young woman, her face flushed, eyes rimmed red as if she\u2019d been crying for hours.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>&ldquo;Rachel?&rdquo; Grayson whispered. Her gaze was locked onto him.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYou!\u201d Rachel spat. \u201cYou promised me. You told me I was the only one!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_3\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_03\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_3-2\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Grayson\u2019s face paled. \u201cRachel, please\u2026 not here. This isn\u2019t the time&hellip;\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/yTfl5RM2qEhpOZVuAptA46gC2fsomq7m_rkPEDfo0dE\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZmY4NjVmMjBlNWJiOGM4MGFhNzBlZTIxNzcyMjI4MWIxZjZhMjE5Nzg4NDdmNzU3YmVjZDRkZWNmNDRhOTk5MS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/ff865f20e5bb8c80aa70ee217722281b1f6a21978847f757becd4decf44a9991.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cNot the time?\u201d she interrupted, her voice climbing higher with each word. \u201cI had to track you down! I put a GPS on your car because I couldn\u2019t get a straight answer from you!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Her words turned into sobs. Megan\u2019s face twisted in shock. I felt a pang of relief. That was the truth she needed, even if it was painful.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cIs this true?\u201d Megan\u2019s voice was cold. \u201cYou lied to me?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/L1QFq56Rw7qrLP2Km0tY9fryJdtRp-c25H6wOI90k9Y\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vODgxYzNhYzQ4N2I1MWMzNTY2YjNmNjU1NDYwZDllMDcxM2ZhZmNlMjU2NjM1YjMwNjM0NzRmMmJiZjU3NTc2MS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/881c3ac487b51c3566b3f655460d9e0713fafce256635b3063474f2bbf575761.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMegan, listen. It\u2019s\u2026 complicated. I didn\u2019t mean&hellip;\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cComplicated? You thought you could just\u2026 keep lying, jumping between us? How many others are there, Grayson?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He opened his mouth, but no words came. Megan stepped forward, her hands pushing him back toward the door.\n\n</p><div>\n<blockquote class='\"ContentRenderer_blockquote__DAX00\"'>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYou need to leave. Now. I don\u2019t want to see you ever again.\u201d\n\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/6S1pY5ihH_6BA625MoqOdf0vLbopDqwzqgi2fiHRXbk\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZTQ4MzA5ODQzODQyMjU2ZWZmMmFmNzFlNmRhZDhkMDA2OWMyMTMwNGU4ZDQ3ZjNmMmYxY2IzMjY2ZWE0NGQ1Ny5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/e48309843842256eff2af71e6dad8d0069c21304e8d47f3f2f1cb3266ea44d57.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Grayson stumbled toward the door; he was nothing to Megan now.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I watched in shock as he staggered down the driveway. At that moment, the blinding headlights of an oncoming car rounded the corner, its tires screeching in a sharp, desperate attempt to stop.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_1\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_01\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_1-4\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The sickening sound of impact tore through the night as Grayson crumpled onto the pavement, motionless. My hands flew to my mouth, horror flooding through me as I stared.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/7-zQAqYLS6yg3ErJ0XHZwsUBBx-bwADPRD1yxZPLbpo\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTE4ZDA5YWEzYWZmZDJmMWVlN2NmYmY4MzM3MTM5YjE5MTU2MjFhMWE5YTc3MjM4NWUzZmJhODYwNDA0MThjYi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/a18d09aa3affd2f1ee7cfbf8337139b1915621a1a9a772385e3fba86040418cb.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only The doctor at the hospital said Grayson wasn\u2019t in any condition to travel far, at least not for a while. Normally, I would have suggested he stay at a hotel, but our town\u2019s only one was closed for repairs.\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I couldn\u2019t bring myself to send him out onto the street with no other options. So, despite everything, I offered him a place to stay.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>And honestly, I had started to feel a hint of sympathy for him. There was a sadness in his eyes, a deep loneliness that made him seem not as terrible as I\u2019d first imagined. I saw someone who seemed genuinely unhappy and maybe even a little lost.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"AdvTitle_wrap__wIGWH\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_2\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_02\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_2-5\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/i8viCBAOiVoriE7RYBB0hdrN1cb6HzTEaTmAY57NwLU\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjY2NWFhNDViMmQzYzc2MGMzZDhiMzMzODFmOGRlMDY0M2Q1YTAxZmRiZjk4ZWY1NGQ1Zjg3Y2UzZTk5MTk0OC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/6665aa45b2d3c760c3d8b33381f8de0643d5a01fdbf98ef54d5f87ce3e991948.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>But Megan\u2019s reaction took me by surprise. The very next morning, without so much as a backward glance, she decided to leave. She didn\u2019t say goodbye or ask how he was doing.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYou\u2019re better at this, Mom,\u201d she said flatly, slipping Grayson\u2019s bank card into her bag. \u201cI never loved him. I was just using him for the money, and he didn\u2019t care. He loved showing me off like a trophy. It was all just business between us.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Her words stung, even though I\u2019d suspected their relationship wasn\u2019t real. Hearing her admit it so bluntly cut deeper than I\u2019d expected. And just like that, she was gone, leaving me alone with Grayson.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/En4pykXr-Ie7imv8bfZU9a6D4tUeyRX5_xyFkWbQq6M\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMmI3NWYzOWQwZDA2Nzc5MTdhNjZhN2FlNzVhOGE0NmIwZWI1NzkzMWExZTdmODk2YmFhNmM2ZTJjZWU0YjY2ZS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/2b75f39d0d0677917a66a7ae75a8a46b0eb57931a1e7f896baa6c6e2cee4b66e.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The first few days were filled with silence. Grayson stayed mostly in the guest room, moving slowly with the aid of a walker. I did the bare minimum, bringing him meals and helping him with bandages.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>One afternoon, he surprised me by asking, \u201cDo you play chess?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I blinked, caught off guard. \u201cI\u2026 used to. Years ago.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWell,\u201d he said, with a faint smile, \u201cmaybe you could refresh my memory.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/TCXXlIxu__NB37eASEinC86BxM29cYb-HNTT3a3X_0s\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vOTZjZWZiZGJjNmJiNTEyNjNkMDE5MzdiNmNiZGYxYzQ2N2M4M2M1YjFjYjkwZjQ5MTg1Nzc4ZjVhZTk1ZWM1Ni5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/96cefbdbc6bb51263d01937b6cbdf1c467c83c5b1cb90f49185778f5ae95ec56.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI haven\u2019t played in years,\u201d I admitted, setting up the board.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cSame here,\u201d Grayson replied, his hand hovering over the pieces as he tried to remember the opening moves.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>And from that day on, we found ourselves lingering over the chessboard, spending hours each afternoon in quiet conversation. Grayson began to open up, revealing sides of himself I hadn\u2019t expected.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He had a gentle charm, refined manners, and a surprisingly kind heart. I couldn\u2019t help but wonder how he had become the brazen man my daughter had brought home, the one who seemed so shallow and careless.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/qxDV3lyrLR9kihxl421w0MDsS1qrr9qoCp5YS-9JYg0\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vODU2MzI2MmIxYTUzZmQ5YjhmZTRhZDcwYjg0OThmZWY5MmU5ZTU3YTNhZmFiMTVjYzMyODIxZjFjY2JkMTNjMy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/8563262b1a53fd9b8fe4ad70b8498fef92e9e57a3afab15cc32821f1ccbd13c3.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>One day, after a long pause in the game, Grayson looked out at the ocean and sighed. \u201cYou know\u2026 I lost my wife when we were young. She was everything to me. After she passed\u2026 I just drifted.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<blockquote class='\"ContentRenderer_blockquote__DAX00\"'>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cThat must\u2019ve been\u2026 hard.\u201d\n\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_1\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_01\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_1-8\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n<div id='\"google_ads_iframe_\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_01_3__container__\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cIt left a hole. One I couldn\u2019t fill. Not with work, or travel\u2026 or people.\u201d He glanced at me, a faint, sad smile touching his lips. \u201cThe younger women\u2026 they were never what I needed.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>His honesty was something real. There was a man who\u2019d spent years running from his heartbreak while I had built walls to keep from feeling anything too deeply.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/KvS7YYiAC4ufY8PuvOBZhBGsTbLFgJDlcz4UjLTlwpo\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNDhiZTFhZGI4YmZmOGEzYTgyYTAwMzA3ZmJlMTJiZWQ5ZTcxOGNkNDY4ZTEwYWRhZDhiYTMxYTVmYmNmYzRlNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/48be1adb8bff8a3a82a00307fbe12bed9e718cd468e10adad8ba31a5fbcfc4e7.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Time passed, and by the time Grayson had fully recovered, I was already hopelessly in love with him. He was a man who had simply needed real companionship, someone who\u2019d been missing from my life as much as I\u2019d been missing from his.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He carried a deep sense of guilt over everything that had happened with Megan. One day, he suggested gently, \u201cLet\u2019s go into town and talk to Megan together.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"AdvTitle_wrap__wIGWH\"'><span class='\"AdvTitle_text__hRK31\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_2\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_02\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_2-9\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u0410 part of me worried about how she\u2019d react, but having Grayson by my side made me feel ready to face whatever came next.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/Da9EL9zbeiWAQ-96AXeggIEEMyvkTQ4YbbcD_jjq9OU\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMTIxMDAxYmQzZTkzODJhMTdiYWQ4MzM1ZDk1MDYzMTI0ZGUxYWVmZjIwYzBlY2ZlYzc0ODE5OTllYjRkZDdmNi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/121001bd3e9382a17bad8335d95063124de1aeff20c0ecfec7481999eb4dd7f6.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1456\"' height='\"816\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>We found Megan at a small caf\u00e9 downtown due to her friend&rsquo;s instructions.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhat are you two doing here?\u201d Megan asked, her tone colder than I\u2019d hoped.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Grayson smiled calmly. \u201cJust wanted to talk. Maybe have a coffee together?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Megan rolled her eyes, but she didn\u2019t walk away. \u201cFine. Five minutes.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>We settled at a table. Megan listened, her gaze flicking between us.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/OrYVX5BEGvdyO2eMS9VzVmQ0wSZ7Jwh3z9gVulW8ceA\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vOTBlNGZlOWM2N2Q1NTU4ZjBhNzQ4ZjMxZDg5MzYwNWFhYWUwNzhiYmQ2Y2ZhZDY3M2I1NTQ3MDgxZGVjODQ5Zi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/90e4fe9c67d5558f0a748f31d893605aaae078bbd6cfad673b5547081dec849f.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhy are you even here, Grayson?\u201d she finally burst out. \u201cIs this some attempt to act like a father figure?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<blockquote class='\"ContentRenderer_blockquote__DAX00\"'>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cNo, Megan. I\u2019m here because I care about you. And because you deserve the chance to decide what you really want without pressure from me or your mom.\u201d\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWell, I already know what I want. I have enough money on your card to get by until I find someone else. Someone younger this time.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Frustration rose in me, but Grayson\u2019s hand gently squeezed my arm under the table, a silent reminder to stay calm.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/XlhSvlJvheH2jcsAmvq9OuJ_RkxHms8gaGzI9V8yzgM\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYWZiZjMwZmE4MTEyZjlkN2Y5ZmY0NGM2OWVhYzcwMTg0OWIyZjcxNGI4MDc4YmQ5ZWY4YzY1NTY2ZTk1ZTliNC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MjA0OCZoZWlnaHQ9MjA0OA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/afbf30fa8112f9d7f9ff44c69eac701849b2f714b8078bd9ef8c65566e95e9b4.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"2048\"' height='\"2048\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMegan,\u201d I said quietly, \u201cwe\u2019re here to remind you of who you are\u2014someone who\u2019s always been brave, smart, and independent. I don\u2019t want you to give up on your potential.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_4\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_04\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_4-11\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>For a long moment, Megan didn\u2019t say anything. Then she reached across the table, picked up my coffee cup, and took a sip as if to stake her own ground.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYou know what? I\u2019ll think about it,\u201d she muttered.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Grayson offered a gentle nod. \u201cThat\u2019s all we wanted, Megan.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/wHF4rV4xFLT1-2MGjbCrmhzvPsKjB45ycwsKD6jkbm0\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYzc1YzdhZWExMDE4N2E4MzllN2ZkNDhiMWExMTUyODYyNWRiOTc1MDczNmIyYzQ3ODBkZDA3MzM4NTljMmNhNi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/c75c7aea10187a839e7fd48b1a11528625db9750736b2c4780dd0733859c2ca6.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cFine, but don\u2019t expect any miracles. I\u2019m not ready to fall into line just because you two showed up out of nowhere.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>A few days later, I got a call from Megan.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMom\u2026 Maybe you were right. I don\u2019t have access to Grayson\u2019s card anymore, and I can\u2019t find a stable place to live. None of these men take me seriously. I\u2026 I miss my old life, my friends, the campus.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>She paused, then added, \u201cI&rsquo;m so sorry. I think I want to go back to college. I promise to try this time, Mom.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/E8YewEk-fTCJlXMkerIraxBoTmwJtTeN-2HVXYV3mNo\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMjY3Yzg4NDYzYTA4ODM4NDgyYWU3MjEzM2IxZjk0YTIwMjVlNGQ3NzAyNzljZjRkY2IyMjMwZGFhNTI1Yjk4Mi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/267c88463a08838482ae72133b1f94a2025e4d770279cf4dcb2230daa525b982.png%5C%22" alt='\"For' illustration purposes only source: midjourney width='\"1456\"' height='\"816\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>For illustration purposes only\n\n\n</p><div>\n</div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></blockquote></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></span></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></blockquote></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></blockquote></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></blockquote></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></blockquote></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></blockquote></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></blockquote></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></blockquote></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div>