But then her expression softens, and she steps closer, her voice dropping to something quieter, something real. “Kerry, listen to me. I know your dad, and I can be… a lot. We meddle, we push, we joke too much. But it’s because we love you. Always have. We’re proud of our sweet little unemployed daughter.”

“Mom!” I groan, swatting at her playfully.

“Sorry, couldn’t help myself.” She chuckles, then grows serious again. “But seriously, you’re amazing, Kerry. And though we pressure you with our dreams of happiness for you, you don’t owe us a thing. You don’t owe anyone anything—not your time, not your sacrifices, not your well-being, and definitely not your happiness.

“If you ever felt like you had to stay with Cory or put your dreams on hold just to keep us or anyone else happy… I’m sorry for that.” Her words land with a weight I didn’t expect, stirring up feelings I’ve kept buried under layers of stubbornness and pride.

“Mom…” I start, but my voice catches.

She gently cups my cheek, brushing away a tear I hadn’t even realized had fallen. “You survived the hell Cory put you through, and you’re still standing tall. You’re strong. Stronger than you give yourself credit for. All your dad and I want is for you to be happy, whole, and confident. And you define what that looks like, what it feels like. No one else.”

I blink back tears and pull her into a hug. “Thank you, Mom. That means more than I can say.”

She pulls back just enough to meet my eyes, hers filled with pride. “You’re beautiful, you know that? You remind me of myself at your age—all fire and determination. Tonight, I want you to have fun. Celebrate your friend’s success. And remember, yours is right around the corner.” Her words wrap around me like armor.

“You think so?” I whisper.

She nods, pressing a kiss to my forehead. “I know so. Now, go out there and enjoy yourself. No overthinking. No talking about jobs or bills. Just have fun.”

I give her one last squeeze, grab my pink satin clutch, and step out into the crisp evening air—a renewed sense of confidence blooms within me.

Sure, I’m unemployed and on the brink of a meltdown, but it’s not the end of the world. Everyone deserves a stress-free night of fun, and maybe tonight will be the distraction I need. Or better yet, the turning point I’ve been waiting for.

But as the cool air hits my skin, my stomach tightens as a grim realization hits. I’m probably going to have to face him.

Cory Martin. My shitty ex-husband.

Still, I square my shoulders, my heels clicking against the pavement with purpose. Mom’s right. I don’t owe anyone a damn thing.