Riley, a 32-year-old single mom, stood torn as she prepared to leave her son Roy, 8, for a rare night out. Since her ex had vanished during her pregnancy, Riley had raised Roy alone, building a life centered around him—yet still longing for love. Every time she met someone promising, the moment they learned about Roy, they vanished.
Mitchell felt different—kind, genuine. Tonight’s date was Riley’s chance to see if love was still possible, but she feared revealing her son too soon. As Roy protested going to his friend Kyle’s for a sleepover, Riley reassured him gently, hiding her guilt.
At the restaurant, Mitchell greeted her with a warm smile. Nervous at first, the two soon found an easy rhythm, joking about the menu and sharing stories. For the first time in ages, Riley felt seen. But as they walked after dinner, the secret of Roy weighed on her.
Testing the waters, she asked how Mitchell felt about kids. He dodged the question, and Riley’s hope dimmed. Just then, a call came—Roy was hurt, and she had to go. Guilt rushing in, Riley confessed everything: she had a son, and she had hidden it.
To her surprise, Mitchell smiled and admitted he had a 12-year-old daughter. He understood. Then he offered to drive her to get Roy.
When they arrived, they found Roy perfectly fine—he’d faked being hurt just to see his mom. Riley hugged him tightly, touched by his longing. On the ride home, Mitchell joked about their “non-crisis” and suggested their next date include the kids.
Riley smiled, her heart finally hopeful. “I’d like that,” she said.
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