Chapter 19

“AVERY begged me not to tell Boss she was with her kid when I called the other day. She was polite. And, of course, I’m not in the position to tell you even though we’re friends. But everything is well. Right, Chaya? They’re not married, and it looks like nothing could change his love for you,” Jellybean said on the other line.

She reached out to Jellybean after that talk with Kyrie. Something was still bothering Chaya. She did not doubt Kyrie’s words, but she knew nothing about that woman named Avery. But Kyrie wanted to be the best father for Kiel. He needed her support.

Chaya heaved a sigh. “I know, Jellybean. Kyrie told me that. I guess there’s nothing I could do except do what I usually do.”

“Or maybe you should think about moving here for good so you could see each other anytime. I’m sure Kyrie would love you to meet Kiel, too.”

Chaya shrugged as she stared up at the ceiling. “I’m not sure yet, Jellybean. That’s actually a big move to make. You know, this place had always been my comfort zone. But I’m not closing my doors. We promised we’ll make this work.”

“Then, that’s already a start,” Jellybean said reassuringly. “I’m sure you’ll be a great second mom to Kiel. Co-parenting is a thing nowadays. I’m sure the child will grow up like other kids normally do.”

Chaya laughed weakly. “I think it’s too early to talk about marriage and being parents,” she said matter-of-factly. “If Kyrie wanted to be the best father to Kiel, I won’t be the one to hold him back.”

“That’s why I really think you guys are perfect for each other,” Jellybean said proudly.

She laughed. “I’m trying not to stress about it,” she admitted. “If something happens, tell me, all right?”

“Of course, Chaya.”

***

“I’m so happy. We've got more projects coming up,” Ellie said, beaming at the camera.

The three of them were on a conference call to discuss work and output.

“Great. I love that,” Chaya said. “I need more distractions. More distractions, more money.”

Jae suddenly cleared her throat.

“I hope you’re not forgetting we still have a series to launch under Timeless Pages. It’s about to turn a year old already,” she reminded.

Jae also worked as a managing editor for Timeless Pages, a traditional publishing house that was also their printing partner. They were friends with the owner before they even built a partnership.

Ellie groaned.

“Thank you for reminding us. This is the longest time I haven’t touched my drafts.”

“I don’t think I’m ready to talk about that,” Chaya joked as she took a sip of her coffee.

“Come on, guys. Don’t you all miss the publishing scene? I think it’s not fair that we’re too dedicated to polishing all those international writers’ works but neglect our own,” Jae said, pouting. “Besides, Yana is in talks with a movie producer. We might get another movie adaptation after Chaya. It’s been more than three years if I’m right.”

“And if that happens, I hope they offer the role to Tyler again,” Ellie seconded. “What do you think, Chaya? Did you congratulate him when he won Best Actor?”

“I did,” she replied with an unenthusiastic shrug. “He’s working on a new project, I guess. But we’ll see.”

“So, by the way, what happened with Kyrie’s visit?” Ellie was grinning.

“It’s a shame I did not meet him,” Jae said.

“Oh, you know, it was the shortest three days of my life,” Chaya said with a laugh. “He met my mother already. They got along just fine. But something happened when he went back home.”

“What is it?” Jae and Ellie asked in chorus.

“So, after he told me about the last woman he had a relationship with, she suddenly reappeared. He found out they had a son.”

Ellie gasped. Jae was as shocked as well.

“But he told me I have nothing to worry about. He just wanted to make it up to his son and become a good father.”

“Well, if that isn’t straight out of a baby wingman trope,” Jae remarked. “I mean, of course, you’re his girlfriend now. It’s not like they’re getting back together just because they have a son.”

Jae laughed, but Chaya looked taken aback.

“What? They’re that predictable,” Jae said matter-of-factly.

“Yeah, and this is real life,” Ellie said. “You can just move back in here, Chaya. In that way, you’ll be with Kyrie more often. And let’s work on that series collaboration closely.”

“That’s a great idea,” Jae agreed enthusiastically.

“Yeah. That’s what Jellybean said, too,” Chaya said with a sigh. “But you know how exhausting to get out of your comfort zone is.”

“But you know, most of the time, it’s worth it,” Ellie said.

Chaya smiled.

***

“Can I ask you something, Roxanne?”

Roxanne glanced in her direction. She was making kimchi fried rice in Chaya’s kitchen. Chaya, on the other hand, was making their favorite coffee jelly dessert.

“If it’s about Kyrie, fire away,” Roxanne replied.

She had already told her about Kyrie’s ex-girlfriend and the son he had just met.

“Do you think it’s a crazy idea to move in with Ellie so Kyrie and I could see each other more often?” Chaya looked reluctant. “It’s crazy, right? I know. It’s really crazy.” She made a dismissing gesture with her hands.

“Of course, that’s crazy!” Roxanne said out loud. “But sometimes, crazy works.”

She bit her lip. “Wouldn’t that confuse his son, though? I mean, he’s just Rian’s age. He has a mom, but his dad has a girlfriend.”

“Well, what if that would not be an issue with the kid? As long as you’re supportive and nice to Kyrie’s son, he’ll be fine, I guess. But are you really sure about it?”

Chaya shrugged. “I still have to think about it for a few weeks. I mean, there are so many things to consider. You know I’m helping my mother and my cousin’s business.”

“Nah, it’s high time you shift your focus on just a few things. Like your relationship with Kyrie and your business with your writer friends. I’m sure the rest will fall into place.” Roxanne wiggled her eyebrows. “Have you told Kyrie about your plan?”

“Nope.” She grinned. “I’m thinking of surprising him.”