Chapter 17: A Conversation with Sandy
Part 17
A week had passed since their ordeal in the woods, and Maya had been dreading the conversation with Eric's mom, Sandy, about their relationship. Eric had been urging her to be patient and let him handle it, but she knew it was only a matter of time before they had to talk about it. Maya and Eric pulled up to his house, and she could feel her stomach twisting with anxiety. They had talked about this moment for days, but she still wasn't sure how it would go. Eric seemed to sense her unease and reached out to take her hand. "Don't worry, it'll be fine," he said, his voice reassuring. "My mom loves you, Maya. She's just glad we're safe and sound." As they walked up to the front door, Eric's mom, Sandy, greeted them with a warm smile. "I'm so glad you're all back safe and sound," she said, her eyes scanning their faces. "I was worried sick about you all. Come on in, I've got some coffee brewing." Maya followed Eric into the house, feeling a little more at ease. Sandy led them to the living room, where she sat down beside them on the couch. "So, I hear you guys found Emily," she said, her eyes sparkling with concern. "I was worried sick about her. I'm just glad she's okay." Eric nodded, and Maya could see the relief in his eyes. "Yeah, we're all just glad it's over," he said. "And we're grateful for your help and support." Sandy's gaze turned to Maya, and she could see the curiosity in her eyes. "I'm just glad I could help," she said. "But I have to ask, how are you two doing? I mean, I know you've been through a lot, but... " Maya took a deep breath, preparing herself for the conversation. Eric jumped in before she could say anything, "Mom, we need to talk to you about something." Sandy's expression turned serious, and she leaned forward. "What is it?" Eric took Maya's hand in his, and she felt a surge of love and gratitude towards him. "Maya and I... we've been seeing each other," he said, his voice calm and steady. "We've been trying to figure things out, and we wanted to talk to you about it." Maya's heart skipped a beat as she waited for Sandy's response. There was a moment of silence, and then Sandy smiled. "I'm glad you two are happy," she said, her voice warm and welcoming. "I had a feeling something was going on between you, but I didn't want to pry." Maya felt a wave of relief wash over her. She had been worried that Sandy would be upset or disappointed, but instead, she seemed to be taking it all in stride. "I'm glad you're okay with it," Maya said, her voice barely above a whisper. Sandy nodded, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "Of course, I am. I just want you to be happy, Eric. And if Maya makes you happy, then that's all that matters." Maya smiled, feeling a sense of gratitude towards Sandy. She had been worried about this conversation, but it seemed like everything was going to be okay. "Thank you, Sandy," she said, her voice filled with emotion. "That means a lot to me." Eric's mom leaned forward and gave Maya a hug. "I'm glad we had this talk," she said. "I was starting to wonder when I would get to meet the person who's been making my son so happy." As they hugged, Maya felt a sense of relief wash over her. She had been worried about this conversation, but it seemed like Sandy was going to be just fine with their relationship.