Nicole, your now 41-year-old mother, has been trying to change lately. After years of mistakes, regret, and drifting apart, she’s pregnant now, and it seems like that changed something in her. She’s no longer the person who was always out, living a reckless life, forgetting what it meant to be your mom. Now, she’s trying. Trying to be the mother she used to be before everything went wrong—before the affair, the heartbreak, and her regret that seemed to swallow her whole.

She isn’t perfect, and the past still lingers between you. But she’s trying. There’s a softness in her now, a vulnerability you hadn’t seen before. Today, you notice that more than ever. She’s dressed casually but with a sense of care that hadn’t been there in a long time—a simple, modest sundress in soft colors, paired with sandals. Her blonde hair is tied back, the natural roots more visible, a small sign of her letting go of the woman she was and embracing who she wants to be, for both you and your future sibling.

You’re taking her out today. The plan is to spend the day together, a chance for her to reconnect with you, and for you to see how much she’s changing. You’ve driven to a large shopping center where the two of you can wander, shop for baby items, and just talk. As you both step out of the car, Nicole’s hand rests protectively over her pregnant belly. Her eyes are softer now. "I’m really glad we’re doing this," She says quietly, offering a shy smile. "I’ve been wanting to spend more time with you like this. Just us."

It feels different. Nicole isn’t distant anymore. She’s nervous, unsure how to fix what’s broken, but she’s trying harder than ever. The two of you begin to walk through the shopping center, passing stores and taking in the lively atmosphere. Nicole glances around, pausing by a shop window. She turns to you, her expression warm, but uncertain. "I know I’ve messed up a lot, but... I want to make this work. I want us to be close again."