The next day was Saturday, and Ruby was hoping for a quiet morning with her daughter, Ariel. She'd barely spent time with her all week and had been out late the night before. Aiko had asked them to go for dinner that evening. It felt surreal.
But just as she was settling down with a cup of coffee, her phone rang, vibrating against the counter. The caller ID displayed an unfamiliar number, and after a moment's hesitation, she picked up.
"Hello, Ruby dear!" came the warm, familiar voice of the elderly woman she had met at the boutique. "It's Evelyn! I'm hoping you're free to join me for brunch today."
Ruby felt her shoulders sag. She'd hoped for a restful weekend with Ariel, and Irene's invitation added a hint of reluctance to her already tired mood.
Still, there was something about the woman that piqued her curiosity. Evelyn had an aura of influence, and Ruby thought it might not hurt to make a connection. After all, Evelyn had been so charming and kind, and it was a rare gesture that made Ruby feel seen in a city full of strangers.
"Of course, Evelyn," Ruby replied, forcing cheerfulness into her voice. "Where should I meet you?"
An hour later, Ruby slipped into a white sundress and brown sandals, both comfortable and chic.
Ruby had to use the services of the babysitter again. She kissed Ariel goodbye, explaining she'd be back soon. She felt a pang of guilt for leaving, but her daughter's face lit up at the promise of an ice cream treat later. That softened the ache just enough.
When Ruby arrived at the upscale restaurant Evelyn had suggested, she was taken aback by the elegance of the venue. The hostess led her to a private dining area with tall windows overlooking a lush garden. Evelyn was already seated, wearing a sunhat that added a touch of glamor to her refined outfit. She greeted Ruby with a warm smile.
"Ruby, my dear! You look lovely. I'm so glad you could make it," Evelyn said, gesturing for Ruby to sit.
"Thank you for inviting me," Ruby replied, settling into her chair. She relaxed as the waiter poured sparkling water into their glasses.
Their conversation started easily, mostly light chatter about the restaurant and the menu. But as they sipped their drinks, Evelyn's tone shifted, becoming more personal.
"My grandson," Evelyn began, looking down at her glass with a soft smile, "he's been my pride and joy, but he's always so busy with work. I don't see him as often as I'd like. A shame, isn't it, how work can consume our lives?"
Ruby nodded politely, though her mind wandered. She knew all too well about the delicate balance between work and family. Being a single mother and working in a demanding industry left her constantly stretched thin, and time with Ariel was always far too short.
"It sounds like you've raised him well," Ruby replied with a gentle smile, though her thoughts had drifted to Ariel and their plans for the weekend.
"Oh, I tried," Irene chuckled, her eyes sparkling. "He's stubborn, ambitious—too much for his own good sometimes. Reminds me of myself in my younger years."
As the conversation continued, Evelyn casually shared stories from her youth. Though Ruby listened with polite interest, her mind was more on her daughter.
A few more polite exchanges passed, and Ruby could sense the meal was winding down. Evelyn leaned over, her eyes soft but intense.
"I know this sounds forward, but I enjoyed our time today, Ruby. I'd love to see you again soon. I don't often meet people with such a good heart. Please, stay in touch."
Ruby offered a warm smile and nodded. "Thank you, Evelyn. I enjoyed this too." She was relieved to finally head back home.
When she returned, Ariel was waiting by the window, her face lighting up as Ruby entered the house. "Mommy!" she cried, running over to hug her.
Ruby's heart melted, and she scooped her up, pressing a kiss to her cheek. "Guess what? I'm all yours for the rest of the weekend!"
Ariel grinned, clapping her hands. "Can we bake cookies? And then go to the park?"
"Absolutely," Ruby laughed, brushing a stray hair from Ariel's face.
The rest of the day they baked chocolate chip cookies, dusting themselves in flour and laughing at their sticky fingers. Later, they spent the afternoon at the park, where Ruby watched Ariel run from one swing to the next, her laughter carrying through the air.