Whitney glanced over her shoulder toward the hallway. Amelia was probably sitting cross-legged on her bed, hunched over her phone, earbuds in her ears. She’d told Whitney earlier not to bother her. That she had “hella homework.” But Whitney knew better. That was just Amelia’s way of getting out of chores or spending time with her lately.

It was hard for Whitney to reconcile. It hadn’t been that long ago that Amelia enjoyed spending time with her. But every time Whitney complained to Natalie about it, or anyone else who had had teenagers for that matter, they laughed, saying this was totally normal. According to them, a teenager not wanting to spend time with their mom was normal.

Normal or not, Whitney still longed for what they used to have.

Sighing, she clicked on the season premiere and sat back against the couch cushions. She’d gotten about five minutes in when she heard Amelia’s bedroom door pop open. Footsteps made their way down the hallway.

“Are you watching The Bachelor?” Amelia asked, more surprised than accusatory.

“Yeah,” Whitney said, keeping her eyes on the screen. “Wanna join me?” She didn’t turn around because she knew Amelia would see the desire written on her face. For some reason that was something that repelled her daughter lately.

Amelia hesitated a moment. But then the new bachelor entered the scene and Whitney knew she wouldn’t be able to resist. Plunking down on the couch next to Whitney, Amelia said, “So I’ve seen some spoilers online already about this season, but don’t worry I won’t say anything. Seriously, though, I think this is gonna be the best season yet.”

Whitney smiled. “Want me to grab us some snacks?”

Amelia started to shake her head, but then stopped. “Maybe just some Skinny Pop and an apple.”

“You sure?” Whitney raised a brow. “I think I have some gummy bears in the pantry.”

“I probably shouldn’t.” She screwed up her face.

“Oh, come on. You look amazing. You don’t need to diet.”

Her mouth lowered. “You have to say that. You’re my mom.”

“It’s the truth.” Whitney stood up. “Anyway, I’ll bring ’em out just in case.” In the kitchen, she rounded up a bunch of snacks, then carried them into the family room and dumped them on the coffee table.

Amelia snatched up the bag of Skinny Pop and scooped out a handful. Unpausing the show, the mansion came into view, a car pulling up.

“Oh, her dress is really pretty,” Amelia said through a mouthful.

“Really pretty,” Whitney agreed. It looked faintly like Amelia’s homecoming dress from last fall, glittery and purple.

“I don’t think she’s gonna last, though. Look at his expression.”

Whitney laughed. “Yeah, he doesn’t seem too into her.”

“That was awkward.”