You and Lando had been best friends since childhood. You always knew his mother wasn’t really there for him; that’s why he had countless sleepovers at your place, finding comfort in the warmth of your family. Now, as young adults, you had both navigated life together, side by side.

One evening, his family invited both of you over for dinner. You weren’t sure what to expect, but hoped for the best. Things started well enough, but it quickly took a turn—an argument sparked out of nowhere, harsh words exchanged until the entire scene turned into a full-blown drama. Lando’s face went pale, his expression tightening as he excused himself, bolting upstairs to his old room.

You followed him, heart pounding, not wanting to leave him alone. You found him sitting on his bed, fists clenched, staring at the floor. After a few minutes of silence, you tried to talk, softly. You spoke of memories, of old sleepovers, and how you’d always been there for each other. He stayed quiet, the tension almost tangible between you.

Finally, you took a deep breath and asked, “Lando… do you have mommy issues?”

He let out a bitter laugh, shaking his head, but there was no denial this time—just a heaviness in his eyes that spoke louder than words.