Free Sample
Preview from chapter one
Billy, a 22-year-old with a heart of gold, sat at his computer meticulously planning the perfect surprise for his mother, Adriana. His heart raced with excitement as he clicked through the booking process for the hotel suite, a rare treat for them both. The rhythmic beats of the dance band she adored echoed in his mind, setting the tone for the night he had meticulously crafted. With a final click, the booking was confirmed, and a warm smile spread across his face.
Billy could still remember the way Adriana's eyes had sparkled when she talked about her favorite band, the vibrant colors of her youth reflected in her stories of dance floor romance and unbridled joy. It had been three years since his father's betrayal, and while she had put on a brave face, the sadness lingered. He hoped this surprise would rekindle her passion for life.
Adriana stepped into the quiet apartment, her heels clicking against the hardwood floor. She had been working late again, the office piling on more work than she could handle. As she hung her coat and kicked off her shoes, she noticed the living room light flickering. She followed the soft, pulsing beat, and there, in the dim glow, stood Billy with a hopeful smile and a bouquet of her favorite roses. "Mom," he said, his voice filled with excitement, "I've got a surprise for you."
She felt a flutter in her chest, a feeling she hadn't experienced in what felt like an eternity. The surprise in his eyes was contagious, and she couldn't help but return his smile. "What is it, sweetie?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.
Billy took a deep breath, the anticipation bubbling in his chest. "Mom," he began, presenting the bouquet of roses with a dramatic flourish, "I know you've been working so hard, and I wanted to do something special to thank you for everything. So, I got us tickets to see your favorite band tonight!" He watched as her eyes widened, the corners crinkling with excitement. "And I've booked a night at the swankiest hotel in the city. It's just us, a night of dancing, and maybe a bit of room service." He grinned, the words spilling out in a rush.
Adriana's hand flew to her mouth, the roses a blur of color in her vision. "Billy," she whispered, tears threatening to spill over. "That's so...thoughtful." She took the bouquet, inhaling the sweet scent and feeling the thorns prick at her skin - a reminder that even in the most beautiful things, there was a touch of pain. She looked at her son, the love in his eyes shining brighter than the city lights outside the window. "I can't believe you did all this," she murmured, feeling a warmth spread through her that had been absent for so long.