I watched Max and Lance continue to chat and laugh, feeling genuinely happy for them. As I observed their interactions, I couldn't help but wonder about my own past relationship with Felix.
I thought about our past. I wondered if we could put our differences aside and be friends, like Max and Lance.
As I looked at Max and Lance, I saw the ease with which they communicated and how comfortable they were with each other. I couldn't help but feel a sense of jealousy, wondering if I and Felix could ever have that kind of relationship.
Despite my doubts, I felt a glimmer of hope. Seeing Max and Lance reminded me that time really could heal all wounds. Maybe, someday, I and Felix could move past our differences and be friends too.
But for now, I was content to watch Max and Lance interact, feeling grateful for their ability to be civil with each other. I knew that their positive relationship would make things easier for everyone in our social circle, and I couldn't help but admire their maturity.
As I said goodbye to Max and Lance, I made a mental note to reach out to Felix and see if we could talk. I didn't know if it would lead to a friendship like Max and Lance's, but I was willing to try now.
Walking away, I felt hopeful for the future. I knew that healing takes time, but seeing Max and Lance reminded me that it was possible. Maybe, just maybe, I and Felix could find a way to be friends again.
"What are you thinking?" Mom ask me while we were watching Lily play with her cousins.
"You're right, mom. I really should talk to Felix about Lily." I sigh.
"Haven't I told you that already?" she said.
I nod my head, feeling guilty for not taking my mom's advice sooner. "I know, mom. I just didn't want to stir up any old feelings or cause any drama."
Mom puts a hand on my shoulder. "Sometimes, the difficult conversations are the ones that need to happen. And it's better to address any potential issues sooner rather than later."
I take a deep breath, feeling a sense of determination. "You're right, mom. I'll reach out to Felix and see if we can talk about Lily and how we can both be involved in her life."
Mom smiles at me. "I'm proud of you, sweetie. It takes courage to confront difficult situations."
As Lily runs up to us, giggling and waving, I feel a sense of hope. Maybe Felix and I can find a way to navigate this new chapter in our lives and work together for the sake of our daughter. It won't be easy, but I'm ready to try.
I scooped Lily up into my arms, giving her a tight hug. As she rests her head on my shoulder, I feel a renewed sense of purpose. I want to be the best mom I can be for her, and that means being open to difficult conversations and making sure she has a relationship with both of her parents.
I know it won't be easy, but I'm ready to have a conversation with him about Lily's future and how we can both be involved in her life. It's time for us to put our differences aside and focus on what's best for our daughter.
I dialed Red's number, and he answered on the first ring.
"Hey, Iris," he answered, "Can I ask you something?" I ask him.
"Yeah, sure, what is it?"
"Do you have Felix's phone number?" I ask.
"Why, Iris?"
"I'm thinking of talking to him," I said, feeling nervous.
"You're going to tell him about Lily?" he asks.
"Yeah. I think it's time, I'm very nervous about having a conversation with him but I think I should try. I'm doing this for Lily," I said.
Red sighed. "Iris, are you sure this is a good idea? I mean, you guys haven't talked in years, he might get too shocked when you mentioned Lily to him. What if he doesn't acknowledge Lily as his daughter?"
"I know, Red, but I can't keep avoiding the situation. Lily deserves to have a relationship with her father, and I want to make sure that happens."
"Of course, Iris. Just be careful, okay? And let me know how it goes."
"I will, Red. Thanks again."
Red was quiet for a moment before finally responding. "Okay, I understand. I do have Felix's number. I'll text it to you."
"Thanks, Red. I appreciate it."
As I hung up the phone, I felt a mix of emotions. I was nervous about talking to Felix, but I knew it was the right thing to do. For Lily's sake, I needed to put my feelings aside and try to have a productive conversation with him.
When I received the message from Red. I quickly save his number on my phone. It was so hard for me to dial his phone number, but I know I have to do this even though I knew he would be shocked to know that he had a daughter with me.
Taking a deep breath, I dialed Felix's number. After a few rings, the phone call ended.
I tried calling him again, but it went straight to voicemail. Disappointed, I hung up and wondered what to do next. Should I leave a message or try calling again later?
I took a deep breath and told myself I'll call him again tomorrow.
When I woke up the next day, I stared at my phone, wondering if I should call Felix again. I went to my contacts, contemplating if I should dial his number or not. But with too much nervousness in my chest, I frustratedly put down my phone.
"Why is it so hard?" I ask myself.
"It's hard because it's a difficult situation," my mom's voice chimed in from the doorway. "But that doesn't mean you should give up. You're doing the right thing by trying to reach out to Felix."
I sighed. "I know, but what if he doesn't want to talk to me? What if he doesn't want to be involved in Lily's life?"
Mom sat down next to me. "Those are possibilities, but you won't know until you try. And even if he doesn't want to be involved right away, that doesn't mean he won't change his mind later on."
I nodded, taking in her words. "I just wish this wasn't so hard."
"I know, sweetie. But sometimes, the hard things are the most worthwhile. Just take it one step at a time, and remember that you're doing this for Lily."