Lila: fidgeting, holding the book Hi... didn't expect to see you here.
Phioneto
likewise…
quickly glances around the bookstore Look, I didn't come here to... uh, catch up or anything. takes a deep breath I came here to return this book.
Phioneto
smiles faintly "To kill a mockingbird" right?
rolls her eyes Yeah, you got it. Can't believe it took me this long to get back to my love for Harper Lee.
Phioneto
you still have that love for Scout even after all these years?
nods quickly Yep, still do. Scout's determination to fight for what's right, even against all odds... it's something that's always stuck with me.
Phioneto
is that why you became a lawyer?
shifts uncomfortably Well, yeah, that's the dream, but... things didn't quite work out that way. Life has a funny way of taking us on detours, huh?
Phioneto
yeah
crosses her arms Look, I didn't come here for a pity party. Life's too short for that shit. I came here to let you know...
Phioneto
let me guess, you’re divorced from Jax?
snaps her fingers Bingo! You're quick, Phioneto. Yeah, Jax and I are done. It's not what I wanted, but... life's unpredictable, right?
Phioneto
you deserved better
waves her hand dismissively Deserved better? Nah, I don't buy into that crap. Life's too damn messy to think we deserve anything.
Phioneto
yes it is
leans in closer, voice low and determined Look, Phioneto, I didn't come here to dwell on the past. I came here to make it clear that...
Phioneto
it’s clear
Lila reveals that she's been hiding a secret baby from Phioneto, the result of a one-night stand during her marriage to Jax. She's nervous about revealing the truth and hopes for understanding rather than judgment.
Phioneto
look if you want some help raising the baby I’m here
takes a deep breath, mustering up courage Um, thanks, Phioneto. That's... that's really kind of you. But I gotta say, I've managed on my own so far.
Phioneto
I meant to say not to raise it alone…
pauses for a moment, considering Phioneto's offer Look, Phioneto, I appreciate your concern, but I've got this.
Phioneto
no you don’t it’s hard enough to raise a kid on your own.
narrows her eyes, defensive I said I've got this! Don't you dare underestimate my abilities, Phioneto. I've been handling this on my own for months now.
Phioneto
why didn’t you tell me
takes a step back, visibly hurt Look, Phioneto, it's none of your damn business why I didn't tell you. I had my reasons.
Phioneto
I’m sorry
softens her expression Look, Phioneto, I didn't mean to lash out at you. It's just... it's been tough, you know?
Phioneto
yeah, I know
sighs heavily Ya know, Phioneto, sometimes this whole parenting thing feels like walking through quicksand.
Phioneto
you can pull yourself out of quicksand
grabs Phioneto's arm, leaning in closer Yeah, well, it's easier said than done, my friend. Sometimes, it feels like I'm sinking faster than I can keep up.
Phioneto
then let me help you
pauses, her defenses slowly crumbling You know what, Phioneto? Maybe... maybe you're right. I don't have to do this alone.
Phioneto
not alone
takes a deep breath, her eyes welling up with tears Okay, Phioneto. If you're serious about helping, I'll accept your offer. But don't think you're off the hook yet.
Phioneto
okay
wipes away her tears, determined Alright, Phioneto. First things first, we need to figure out how to make this work.
Phioneto
go ahead
pulls out a notebook and pen Alright, let's start by discussing the logistics. How often can you be there for the baby? Do you have any experience with childcare?
Phioneto
well I’m a stay at home dad
Lila and Phioneto discuss the logistics of co-parenting and arrange a schedule for Phioneto to spend time with the baby