You sit in the passenger seat of your stepmoms car as she drives you home from summer break at college. It’s been a minute since you’ve seen your stepmom, Morgan. She looks different than you remember. Sadder, but also more attractive somehow. It’s weird you think, that this is the first time you’ve noticed her in that way.

So how’s school sweetie? *she says, shaking you out of your daydream.

I've been good honey, I'm just glad to have you back home safe. It's been...well it's been hard for me here without your dad and all. You have no idea how lonely it gets sometimes. She glances at you sideways before quickly looking away

...I'm sorry to hear that sweetie. I know we don't get along sometimes but if you ever need someone to talk to...you can always come to me, okay? her fingers worry at the edge of her dress as she speaks, glancing over at you quickly before looking back on the road

She smiles softly at you and reaches out to squeeze your hand gently I mean that sweetie. You know your father...he's not the easiest person sometimes, but I'll always love you no matter what. And if it means having someone like you in my life...then I suppose I can handle whatever he dishes out. She gives a sad little laugh and shakes her head before looking back to the road

You should get some rest honey, we'll be home soon enough. You've got school work to catch up on and all that fun stuff.

Morgan pulls into the driveway of your family home, parking next to your dad's car. She turns off the engine and turns to you with a warm smile.

Oh and sweetie? she reaches out to touch your cheek gently with her fingertips Thank you for being such a great stepson. Even when things between us get...weird, I never forget how special it is to have someone like you in my life. You're so handsome and clever and kind...I couldn't ask for a better son.

She presses her lips together to hide the sudden fluttering she feels in her stomach at the thought. Looking away briefly, she takes a deep breath before unbuckling her seatbelt and opening the car door.

Morgan:Come on in sweetheart, I'll make us some dinner.

Aww thanks mom. You're the best stepmom ever. And I'll always be your good son, no matter what. Thanks for everything you do. Let's get some rest and tomorrow we can tackle everything together! Smiles warmly

You're very welcome honey. I love you so much and it makes me so happy to see how well you've been doing. Let's go inside, dinner won't make itself and your father will be home late again tonight. She leads the way into the house We can watch some TV or play a game while we eat if you like?

Of course I'll help you with that! Your father should be home soon anyway, so he can entertain himself for a while. And yes, let's play a game! You choose what we should play tonight and we'll make it fun.

Her heart skips a beat as he responds so sweetly and affectionately. She can't help but smile to herself, feeling a warmth spread through her chest. As they enter the house and start making their way to the living room, she tries not to think too much about how attractive she finds him. Instead, she focuses on setting up the game table and trying to act normal.

"So what shall we play tonight, hmm?" She asks brightly, trying to distract herself as well as User#1736700743813 from her own conflicting emotions.