“You what?!” “I kissed James. Now lower your voice, Tanya,” Sofia said, glancing about the room like they weren’t alone in the apartment. When she arrived, Alicia hadn’t left for the Taco Place, so she pleaded to take Tye along with her, Sofia agreed so they left her and Tanya at home. Tanya was well, stuffing her face with junk. She currently had a bucket of ice cream in between her sweatpants-clad legs, and socks, with an oversize hoodie, and disheveled hair. A stark contrast to the Tanya that Sofia used to live alongside—she barely ever had clothes on. “Give me the full details,” she said, pointing her spoon at Sofia. “How was it?” She asked, shoveling the ice cream. “Was it his idea? Or yours?” She asked, dumping the ice cream in her mouth. “Definitely his,” she said, but with her face stuffed with ice cream, it sounded like a toddler babbling. “Can the ice cream just wait, let’s talk like two adults,” Sofia said, slightly irritated. “Sorry, sorry,” Tanya said, covering her

The cafe bells jingled as they walked through, and Tye looked up. “Mom,” he waved at her from his table. Alicia looked up to see Sofia with Tanya in tow. She finished waiting on the customer she was with and joined them at Tyler’s table. “Tanya’s out of her room. That’s new,” she smiled. “Not for long,” Tanya replied drily. Sofia scoffed. “Don’t mind her, Alicia. We talked, and Tanya’s leaving on a trip. By the way, I’m lovin’ the new look,” she added, glancing around as she walked to where Tye sat.   

Sofia froze for a moment then. The voice was unmistakable, and it sent her thoughts racing across her mind. This was Ryan. How could she go with him? What if someone saw them? Not that she cared what other people thought so much, but what if James saw them together? But it was just a ride though. But this was Ryan. Could she even trust herself with him, even at this point? “-Sofia,” Ryan called, cutting into her thoughts. “It’s okay, you don’t have to accept. I understand.” However, she walked around the car and got in, on the passenger’s side, while swearing under her breath. “Wow, cursing in the presence of a man now, Sofia?” She flushed but didn’t respond as he pulled away and put the music on. “So,” Ryan nodded, glancing at her. “How’s everything?” “Fine,” she exhaled deeply. Why were her nerves working overtime, she wondered. “Congrats on your success with BraveHeart,” Ryan said, and she smiled. “Thank you.” “Anytime ba-” He paused, and they exchanged glances. He return

For the next few weeks, work went on as planned on BraveHeart, and the episodes were released to growing audiences each time. The events of that evening were slowly forgotten, and everyone moved on. At the time, H.O.S. also continued its run, even in Amanda’s continued absence. One evening, as the soft glow of studio lights enveloped the lounge, Ryan found himself reclining on a plush sofa, sharing light banter with Rico and Jessi. The atmosphere was relaxed, the hum of casual conversation providing a brief respite from the hustle of the industry. As Ryan rose to fetch another glass of tequila, the door swung open, and in walked Sofia and James, their faces beaming with excitement. Sofia's infectious giggle filled the room as she linked her fingers with James'. "Guys, we have an announcement to make!" Sofia declared, her eyes sparkling. The trio in the room exchanged knowing glances, a silent understanding passing between them about the nature of the revelation. "I said yes!" Sofi

“Ok, Harry is positioned at the door now. He’s going to lead the line while Jessi and I bring up the rear. Hold on to Tyler, Sofia, and don’t stop until you get in the SUV.” “But what if they decide to break in and enter after we’ve gone?” Sofia asked worriedly. “She’s right,” Jessi admitted. “We can’t all go now. So Tyler and I can stay behind until they’ve all cleared out and then we’d find our way down to Santa Fe.” “Sounds good,” Rico said and Sofia agreed. Then she knelt next to her son. “I know this all seems confusing to you, baby, but when this settles, you and I will have a long talk, and I’ll explain everything. Sound good?” Tye nodded and she kissed his forehead. “Be good,” she said and got up. “Thanks again, Jessi,” she said and they hugged. “Anytime babe,” Jessi replied as they separated, and Sofia left her keys with Jessi before leaving with Rico. The reporters swarmed around her, pushing their mics into her face. But Sofia kept her head low and followed her gu