Chapter CHAPTER 70
You’re a good worryin
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“Dear, you look good,” she replied warmly, gesturing for me to sit.
“What will you have?” She inquired, as I lowered myself into the seat.
“Just iced tea, please.”
“That’s not enough,” she chided, frowning. “You need to eat something. We’ll be talking, and I want you to have something in your stomach.”
“I’m really not hungry, Ma,” I insisted.
But she wouldn’t budge. “Order something, Arielle.”
I gave in, and a waiter appeared, and we placed our orders. And while the waiter was getting our orders, Jared’s mother started a conversation.
“How have you been?”
“I’ve been fine,” I responded, feeling a little awkward. I was divorced from her son, yet she was being nice to me.
Our food arrived, and we dug in. While we ate, I impatiently waited for Jared’s mom to state the reason for the meeting, but the older woman had other plans. She didn’t utter a word until we were done eating.
She cleared her throat, looking at me intently. “Arielle, I know you’re wondering why I asked you to meet me.”
I nodded, “Yes, ma.”
She gave me a knowing smile. “It’s all over your face.”
I looked down, feeling a flush spread on my cheeks. Had I been that obvious?
“But before I proceed, you have to do away with the “ma” title. You used to call me mum; if you don’t feel comfortable calling me that anymore, Mrs. Smith can suffice.”
I was momentarily dumbstruck for a while, before nodding meekly. Words falled me.
“First, I want to apologize to you for what happened between you and Jared -my son. Trust me, as much as I love Sofia I am not in support of what transpired. I like her, and her family too, and Frankly speaking, she probably wouldn’t have ended up with Jared if she didn’t travel abroad. Their bond was that strong, and our families wanted it to happen. But life happened, and they both chose different partners. Believe me, Arielle, I never regretted Jared getting married to you because you’re a
-ZE BONILS
You’re a good woman
good woman. We might not share the same bond I share with Sofie, but it doesn’t mean I do not like you. I like you, respect you even. You’re a good women, and I hope you forgive Jared and understand he went after his heart.”
After she was done talking. I just remained mute. Not because I wanted to but because I didn’t have anything to say. There was silence for a while until I blurted,* What do you want, Mrs Stone, and why are you telling me all this?”
“Because I do not want you to hate Jared or me. I want you to please forgive him.”
“But you’re not Jared,” I pointed.
“But I’m his mother.”
That’s right. I let out a sigh. “I have nothing against you, Ma. Like you said, we were not close, but you treated me so well. As for Jared, it’s hard not to want to hate him. but I’m learning to let go. It might take a while, but I’ll get over it. Thank you for bringing me out here, and the meal, but if you don’t mind, I’d like to return to work. My break is over,” I said, stealing a glance at my wristwatch to make a point.
She nodded. “Alright, dear. Thank you for agreeing to have lunch with me. It means a lot to me.”
I nodded, “You’re welcome,” and rose to my feet.
“Arielle?” She called as I turned to leave.
I swirled back, brows raised.
“You’re a good woman, always remember that.”
I stared at her for a while, unblinkingly, before breaking the gaze. “Thank you,” I mumbled, turned back around and walked away.