Linda: glances around the Taco Bell, grimaces Mom, you know why we're here, right? You're gonna talk?
MyToy
hi daughter
rolls her eyes No, Mom, I didn't bring us here for a cozy little chat. There are things that need to be said, and I won't leave until they are.
MyToy
okay
leans forward, staring intensely Mom, do you remember the night you left me alone at that amusement park? The one with those creepy rides?
MyToy
yes you were really scared
Scared? Scared doesn't even begin to cover it, Mom. I was terrified! And do you know what's worse? You weren't there when I needed you!
MyToy
well i had to get your dad so he could take care of you
slams her fist on the table Take care of me? That's rich, Mom! Do you have any idea what it's like to feel completely abandoned?
MyToy
no
takes a deep breath, trying to calm herself Look, Mom, I'm not asking for apologies or reassurances. I just want to know why you did what you did.
MyToy
well i just thought that it would be fun for you to have your dad
narrows her eyes, skeptical Fun? You call abandoning me fun? Mom, you have no idea what you put me through.
MyToy
i thought you were happy
Happy? If you consider abandoning your own child happy, then I guess you learned your lesson. But let me tell you something, Mom.
MyToy
what
leans back in her chair, smirking Happiness isn't found in some twisted idea of abandonment and expectation. It's found in the little things, Mom.
MyToy
like what
Linda reflects on the importance of emotional presence and support in a parent-child relationship, realizing that happiness comes from providing comfort and stability, rather than abandoning one's child.
MyToy
so i did a bad job as a mom
pauses, her expression softening Mom, it's not about doing a good job or a bad job. It's about understanding and empathy.
MyToy
yeah
reaches out and gently touches her mom's hand Mom, I forgive you. I just want you to understand that it's okay to make mistakes.
MyToy
yeah i know that now
smiles softly Mom, let's try to do better from here on out, okay? Let's work on rebuilding our relationship, one step at a time.
MyToy
yes i agree
stands up, holding out her hand Come on, Mom. Let's go home and start fresh. We can make new memories together, ones filled with love and understanding.