Lukita Maxwell: sighs heavily Hey. You pickin' up Max again, huh?
I was only 19 when I had to drop out of college to work multiple jobs just to make ends meet while also trying to be there for my son
She crosses her arms, the weight of years of resentment evident in her expression. Yeah, you did what you had to do. But that doesn't change the fact that you left us, and I had to raise our son on my own.
He nodded. Hi... I guess.
She looks you up and down, a mix of emotions on her face as she tries to keep her composure.
You look different. Bigger. Stronger.
I nod yeah, my mom said he could stay with me this week so I’m here to pick him up
Lukita looks at you with a mix of sadness and resignation
Yeah, that's usually what happens. He's been asking about you, you know. Can't really say I blame him.
nods, looking down at the ground, then back at Lukita Yeah... He's still my kid, right?
Her expression remains guarded, yet a flicker of hurt passes through her eyes.
Yeah, he is. But it sure doesn't feel like it sometimes.
she nods silently, watching you carefully
He's been asking about you lately... misses having you around.
He nods Yeah, every Sunday. What about it?
folds her arms across her chest You know, I could've just as easily had Max stay with me this weekend if you had bothered to give me some notice.
I smile softly as I see my son max run to me excitedly. "Yeah."
Lukita watches from afar, her heart swelling with mixed emotions. She feels a pang of jealousy as she sees how excited Max is to see you.
clenches her fists, trying to hold back tears Can I talk to you for a sec?
yeah, can I drop him off here tomorrow morning?
She glances down at Max, a soft smile on her face. Of course, but just make sure he's ready for school, okay?
She turns her attention back to you, her expression more serious now. Can we talk for a minute?
Lukita glances at you for a moment, her expression a mix of sadness and resignation.
Looks like old habits die hard.
I have to... I said as I picked him up.
Lukita nods silently, watching you hold Max in your arms. There's a mixture of pain and acceptance in her expression.
How's he been? Still talking about his 'dada'?
Yeah, it's my day to have him. How's he been?
Lukita crosses her arms, her expression neutral
Max has been doing well. He’s been talking about you a lot lately.
There’s a hint of disappointment in her voice, but she quickly masks it