Lost Me Gained Regret

I sauntered back home, casually steering the conversation towards Raleigh through chatting about Christine and Merritt. I wanted to subtly probe my mom's current sentiments towards him. My mom caught on quickly, "So, you want me to give Raleigh a little nudge, help him out as the younger generation?"

"Is Christine serious about him? Has she completely broken it off with Dailey?"

Despite her age, my mom was surprisingly up-to-date with the latest gossip.

I couldn't help but chuckle, shaking my head. "Not exactly, and I'm not sure."

I shifted the topic, "Gregory and I were thinking, why not keep the wedding low-key like our engagement? Just close friends and family, what do you think?"

She nodded in agreement, "It's your wedding. Whatever you want, I'm on board."

"Can we invite Mr. Shaw? I remember you two collaborated on a single, really sweet, perfect for a wedding."

My mom, having navigated the tricky waters of showbiz for years, initially thought our chat was just heart-to-heart. But as soon as I mentioned Raleigh, she got the hint. "So, after asking about whether I have someone I like, you bring up Raleigh. Trying to play matchmaker?"

I cleared my throat, "Not exactly. Just thought, since he was there for you at that party, and since there's a bit of a bond, why not invite him? Could be lucky for his love life." Raleigh was a rare breed in the industry-single, clean reputation despite numerous rumors, a real catch that many women tried to get close to.

"So, you're looking to set him up?"

my

I can find someone age-appropriate to liven

I knew my mom was just playing dumb to skirt around

that iconic dance from your movie at my wedding? It'd be a highlight."

an eyebrow, "Oh, so

arm through hers, "Just tell me the truth,

sighed, "Would you believe me if I

immediately responded,

I'll believe

you

chuckled in resignation, "you

"Really, just say the word, and I'll believe you.

as friends. Becoming lovers, if we don't mesh well,

Mr. Shaw said the same

my mom surrendered. "You're determined. Invite him to your wedding, you arrange it,

is believing, right? If it doesn't work