Chapter 6: A Conversation of Trust

Chapter 6: A Conversation of Trust The sound of footsteps outside the art room had long since faded, and Maya and Eric had emerged from their hiding spot, their hearts still racing from the close call. They had decided that it was time to be honest with Eric's mom, Sandy, about their relationship. Maya had always felt a little guilty about keeping it a secret, and Eric had assured her that his mom was open-minded and would understand. As they walked into Sandy's living room, Maya could feel her nerves building up. She had always liked Sandy, who had a warm and welcoming smile, and a kind way of making everyone feel at ease. Eric took Maya's hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze, before they both sat down on the couch next to Sandy. "Mom, we need to talk to you about something," Eric said, his voice a little shaky. Sandy looked at them with a curious expression, her eyes flicking from Eric to Maya and back again. "What is it, sweetie?" she asked. Maya took a deep breath before speaking. "Eric and I, we've been seeing each other for a while now," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. Sandy's expression didn't change, but Maya could see a flicker of surprise in her eyes. "Okay," she said, her voice calm and even. "I had a feeling that something was going on between you two, but I didn't want to pry." Eric let out a sigh of relief, and Maya felt a weight lift off her shoulders. "We're glad we can be honest with you," Eric said, his voice filled with emotion. Sandy smiled and put a hand on Maya's knee. "I'm glad you can be honest with me too," she said. "And I have to say, I'm not surprised. You two are meant to be together." Maya felt a surge of happiness at Sandy's words, and she smiled at Eric, who was grinning from ear to ear. "Speaking of which," Sandy said, "Eric's birthday is coming up, isn't it?" Eric nodded, his eyes lighting up. "It's on Saturday," he said. Maya's eyes sparkled with excitement. "I was thinking of planning a surprise trip for him," she said. "A cabin in the middle of nowhere, just the two of us." Sandy's eyes raised an eyebrow. "That sounds like a lot of fun," she said. "I'm sure Eric will love it." Maya nodded, her mind already racing with plans. "I've been packing his favorite clothes, and mine too," she said. "Mostly lingerie for me, and no swimsuit, because who needs one in the middle of nowhere?" Sandy chuckled. "You're going to make sure he has a memorable birthday, aren't you?" she said. Maya grinned mischievously. "I plan on them being naked most of the time," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. Eric's face turned bright red, but Sandy just laughed. "Well, I won't pry," she said. "But I'm sure you two will have a great time. Just be safe, okay?" Maya nodded, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. She was glad that she had been able to be honest with Sandy, and that she was supportive of their relationship. As they left Sandy's house, Maya turned to Eric with a smile. "I'm so excited for our trip," she said. Eric grinned back at her, his eyes sparkling with desire. "Me too," he said. "I have a feeling it's going to be a weekend to remember." Maya's heart skipped a beat as she thought about the weekend ahead, and all the things she had planned for Eric's birthday. She couldn't wait to get started.