When Liam's mother called, Hazel wasn't sure what to expect. She hadn't spoken to her since the breakup with Oliver. Back then, Liam's mother had adored her, treated her like the daughter she never had. But now, everything had changed. Hazel knew she couldn't avoid the meeting, but the thought of facing the woman who had once loved her now filled her with dread.
They met in a quiet park, away from prying eyes. The autumn leaves were falling around them, a vivid reminder of how things change, how love can wither and die. Liam's mother sat on a bench, her face drawn with sadness, her eyes tired.
"You really hurt him," she said softly when Hazel sat beside her.
Hazel felt her heart sink. "I know. I didn't mean to."
"He loved you. Oliver loved you too, in his own way. And now, both my boys are devastated." Her voice cracked, and Hazel felt a fresh wave of guilt wash over her.
"I didn't plan for any of this to happen," Hazel whispered, tears filling her eyes. "I loved Liam. I still love him. But I never wanted to hurt him like this."
Liam's mother looked at her, her eyes filled with a mix of sorrow and understanding. "Love can be complicated, Hazel. But sometimes, love isn't enough. Sometimes, the pain is too much to overcome."
Hazel nodded, unable to find the words to express the turmoil inside her. She had wanted so badly to make things right, to be with Liam, but now, everything felt impossible.
"I don't know what to do," Hazel admitted, her voice barely a whisper.
Liam's mother sighed, reaching out to gently take her hand. "Sometimes, there's nothing you can do."