Single mom Riley was tired of being rejected the moment she mentioned her 8-year-old son, Roy. Determined to give herself a chance at love, she hid her son for a night and sent him to a sleepover so she could focus on her date with Mitchell—a charming, kind man who felt different from the rest.

Roy didn’t want to leave, but Riley reassured him it was just one night. At dinner, Mitchell made her laugh and helped her forget her worries, but guilt crept in. When she asked how he felt about kids, Mitchell avoided the question, deepening her anxiety. Then her phone buzzed—Roy had been hurt, and she had to leave immediately.

With her heart pounding, Riley confessed the truth to Mitchell: she had a son and had hidden it out of fear. To her surprise, Mitchell didn’t walk away—he revealed he had a daughter too and understood exactly why she’d been afraid. He offered to go with her to check on Roy.

When they arrived, they found Roy perfectly fine—he had made up the injury just because he missed his mom. Riley hugged him tightly, promising she’d always be there. Mitchell laughed and suggested they bring the kids on their next date. On the drive home, Riley felt a deep sense of relief. She hadn’t lost Mitchell—instead, she’d found someone who understood her journey. For the first time in a long time, love didn’t feel so far away.