"A Mother's Blessing"

Maya walked into the kitchen, where Sandy was busy preparing lunch. The aroma of freshly baked cookies and roasting vegetables filled the air, making her stomach growl with hunger. Sandy smiled as she caught Maya's eye, and gestured for her to take a seat at the counter. "Hey, help yourself to some water or juice," Sandy said, wiping her hands on a towel. "I'm almost done with lunch." Maya nodded, pouring herself a glass of iced tea from the fridge. She took a seat at the counter, watching as Sandy expertly assembled sandwiches and salads. "So, Maya, I have to say, I'm really glad you and Eric are together," Sandy said, her voice sincere. "He's a great kid, but he can be a bit of a handful sometimes." Maya laughed, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. "I can imagine," she said, smiling. "But I really care about him, and I'm happy to be with him." Sandy nodded, a warm smile on her face. "I can see that," she said. "You two are meant to be together. And I have to say, I'm really impressed with you, Maya. You're smart, kind, and beautiful... what more could a mom ask for?" Maya blushed, feeling a sense of gratitude towards Sandy. "Thanks, Sandy," she said. "That means a lot coming from you." Sandy leaned against the counter, her expression turning serious. "Maya, I want to tell you something," she said. "While you're Eric's teacher, and I know there are some concerns about that, I have to say... you're a way better girlfriend for him than his ex, Allison." Maya's eyes widened in surprise. "Really?" she asked, curious. Sandy nodded. "Yes, really," she said. "Allison was a manipulative, controlling person who only cared about herself. She broke Eric's heart, and I'm so glad he's out of that toxic relationship." Maya felt a pang of sympathy for Eric, and a sense of gratitude towards Sandy for sharing this with her. "I'm so glad Eric is out of that relationship too," Maya said, smiling. "And I'm happy to be with him, to support him and care for him." Sandy smiled back, her eyes shining with tears. "I know you will, Maya," she said. "You have a good heart, and I trust you to take care of my son." As they finished lunch, and Devon and Phil began to clear the table, Maya felt a sense of belonging wash over her. She was grateful to be a part of Eric's life, and to have his family's support. As they sat down to eat, Eric reached out and took her hand, smiling at her. Maya smiled back, feeling a sense of happiness and contentment wash over her. She knew that she and Eric still had challenges ahead of them, but with his family's support, she felt like she could face anything.