When the Story Continues (Sequel to When the Script Changes)

Chapter 14: Mon's First Best Friend

Freen had noticed something new over the past few weeks.

Every time Mon came home from school, her usual endless chatter had a recurring theme—or, more specifically, a recurring name.

"Emma said my hair clip was pretty today!"

"Emma and I played princess and knight at recess! I was the knight, of course."

"Emma and I made up a secret handshake. Want to see it? You have to promise not to tell anyone!"

At first, Freen and Becky exchanged amused glances as they listened to Mon's daily school stories. Their little girl was social, always making new friends, but this was different.

This wasn't just any classmate.

This was Emma.

And it was every day.

So naturally, at dinner one night, Becky finally decided to ask.

"Mon, is Emma your best friend?"

Mon froze mid-bite, a spoonful of rice halfway to her mouth. She blinked at Becky, then at Freen, as if the question had never occurred to her before.

Then, she broke into the biggest smile possible.

"Yeah! She is!"

Freen and Becky grinned, exchanging another knowing look.

"Well," Freen said, leaning on her elbows. "Should we invite Emma over for a playdate?"

Mon's eyes widened. "Can we?!"

Becky chuckled. "Of course! We'll just have to talk to her parents first."

Mon gasped dramatically, clapping her hands. "I'm gonna tell Emma tomorrow! She's gonna be so excited!"

Freen smiled, feeling a little sentimental.

This was a milestone—Mon's first best friend.

And somehow, it made her feel like their little girl was growing up even faster.

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The next morning, as expected, Mon ran into school like a whirlwind, immediately rushing to Emma.

And by afternoon pickup, Mon practically exploded out of the classroom, waving a tiny piece of paper in her hand.

"Mama! Mom! Look! Look!" Mon yelled, nearly tripping over her own feet as she ran up to them.

Freen caught her just in time. "Whoa, slow down, baby! What is it?"

Mon held up the paper like it was a golden ticket. "Emma's mom's phone number! You have to text her! Right now!"

Becky took the paper, reading the neat handwriting. "Emma's mom's name is Lia."

"Yes! And she's super nice, and she said she loves dogs!" Mon bounced on her toes. "So she's gonna love Fluffy, BonBon, and Boba!"

Freen smiled, pulling out her phone. "Alright, let's send her a message."

As they walked home, Freen typed out a quick but friendly text:

Hi Lia! This is Freen, Mon's mom. Mon talks about Emma all the time, and we'd love to set up a playdate if you're interested! Let us know what works for you. Looking forward to meeting you! 😊

By the time they got home, a reply had already come in.

Hi Freen! Oh my gosh, Emma is OBSESSED with Mon! She talks about her 24/7! We'd love to do a playdate. Maybe this weekend? Also, my wife and I are HUGE fans of you and Becky! This is kind of surreal haha. Looking forward to meeting you too! 🥰