"Ashley's mom dialed Johnny's number, her heart racing with anticipation. When he answered,
she got straight to the point.
'Johnny, it's over. I know what you've been doing, and I want nothing more to do with you.'
Johnny's voice was laced with shock and disbelief.
'What are you talking about? I thought we were happy, that we had something real.'
Ashley's mom scoffed.
'Happy? You think stealing from me is happy? I found out about the missing money, Johnny. And I know it was you.'
Johnny's tone turned desperate, begging.
'Please, don't do this. I'll pay it back, I promise. I love you.'
But Ashley's mom was resolute.
'No, Johnny. You never loved me. You only loved what I could give you. And I'm not giving you anything else.'
As she ended the call, a wave of relief washed over her. She thought back to the dream she had,
