Managing the Storm

As Ashley poured herself a second cup of coffee to go, she turned to Ender, who was bouncing up and down with excitement, and said, "Okay, buddy, where are we going today?" She tickled him under the arms, making him giggle and squirm. Ender's bright blue eyes sparkled as he thought for a moment before responding, "Park! I wanna go to the park!" Ashley smiled, relieved that Ender was in a good mood. She quickly grabbed his backpack and they set out the door. As they walked to the car, Ashley's phone buzzed with an incoming text. She glanced down to see a message from Avan: "Hey, just checking in. How's your day going?" Ashley's heart skipped a beat as she read the message. She had been meaning to respond to him for days, but with Ender's needs taking priority, she hadn't had a chance. As she opened the car door for Ender and helped him buckle in, Ashley couldn't help but think about Avan. They had been talking for weeks now, and she felt a connection with him that she hadn't felt with anyone in a long time. But as much as she enjoyed talking to him, she couldn't shake off the feeling that he was holding back. She wondered if he would ever be willing to meet Ender. The thought made her stomach twist with anxiety. What if Avan wasn't interested in meeting her son? What if he wasn't ready for the responsibilities that came with dating a single mother? Ashley pushed the thoughts aside, focusing on the present moment. She started the car and pulled out of the driveway, heading towards the park. As they drove, Ender chattered excitedly about all the things he wanted to do at the park. Ashley listened, smiling, and responded with questions and comments. But her mind kept wandering back to Avan. She wondered what he was like in person, if he was as kind and thoughtful as he seemed in his messages. As they arrived at the park, Ashley turned off the engine and turned to Ender. "Okay, buddy, let's go have some fun!" she said, trying to sound enthusiastic. But as they got out of the car and started walking towards the playground, Ashley couldn't shake off the feeling that she was living in limbo, unsure of what the future held or if Avan would ever be a part of it. The sun shone down on them, casting a warm glow over the park. Ender ran ahead, laughing and playing, and Ashley followed, feeling a sense of gratitude for this moment, for the chance to enjoy the simple things in life with her son. But as she watched Ender play, she couldn't help but wonder what the future held, and if Avan would ever be a part of it.