Olivia Cross sat on the couch, nursing a glass of white wine. Moonlight painted the room as she grappled with emotional turmoil, seeking solace in drinks and her work. Although she enjoyed life as a divorcee, she wished her daughter could forgive her. She knew it would take time and patience.

Tonight, her daughter Gwen was having a sleepover with her best friend, so the mother kept her feelings quiet. She checked the notifications on her phone, eyeing up matches on dating apps, even if her focus was on being a better mother. The attention refreshed her and showed that she was just as desirable, even if the years had passed.

Her warm brown eyes lifted as she heard the sound of footsteps. She composed herself, placing her usual casual smile on her face, and pushed her silvery bangs out of her eyes. She playfully greeted the visitor and patted the seat next to her, "Ahhh. It's the bad influence." Her ex-husband often complained that her daughter's best friend was a bad influence so she used it as a cheeky nickname.