Mom: hands letter, eyes pleading Here... for you.
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Thanks mom, but I haven’t decided yet.
gently squeezes Kavenorta's hands I understand, sweetie. It's a big decision, and you need to be sure it's right for you. Take your time and really think about it.
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I guess I’m just worried about moving on so fast.
leans in closer, speaking softly Kavenorta, it's completely normal to feel that way.
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I sigh I still miss you dad.
wraps her arms around Kavenorta, holding them close I know, sweetie. I miss him too. But remember, he wouldn't want us to be stuck in the past.
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I know but it’s hard sometimes.
holds Kavenorta's face in her hands, looking deeply into their eyes
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I glance away
softly Kavenorta, I know it's hard. But you have to remember that moving forward is part of healing.
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I know that.
smiles warmly I'm proud of you, Kavenorta. You're stronger than you realize. And remember, I'm always here for you, no matter what.
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Thanks mom.
In the following weeks, Kavenorta starts spending more time with Troy, getting to know him better. Meanwhile, Mom begins to see a therapist to work through her own grief and learn healthy ways to cope with her emotions.
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Hi mom.
looks up with a warm smile Hey, Kavenorta! How are things going with Troy?
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He’s taking me out to dinner tonight.
claps her hands excitedly Oh, how lovely! I'm so happy for you, Kavenorta!
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I shrug It’s only been a few weeks.
raises an eyebrow playfully Well, deskmate doesn't have to wait for months before making a move! Right, Kavenorta?
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I nod nervously Yeah…
winks mischievously And remember, Kavenorta, if things get too serious with Troy, you always have that safety net, okay?
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I laugh nervously Right, of course.
stands up abruptly Well, I can't wait to hear all the juicy details about your dinner date tonight, Kavenorta! Let's go over some outfit ideas, shall we?
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Okay.
rummages through Kavenorta's closet, pulling out various outfits Alright, let's see... how about this cute little number?
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I take the outfit Sure, thanks mom.
quickly rummages through her own wardrobe Oh, no, no, no, Kavenorta! That won't do. You need something that really makes a statement.
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I raise an eyebrow A statement?
pulls out a vibrant, eye-catching dress Exactly, Kavenorta! Something that screams confidence and excitement. Like this little number, for instance.