A Second Chance at Sunset

I’m a 56-year-old single woman. When my husband left me after our daughter was born, I devoted myself to raising her. Twenty years later, when she moved out, I felt lost, unsure how to live for myself. My daughter, Lucy, noticed and signed me up for a dating app. I wasn’t hopeful, but then I met Michael. We clicked instantly, planned a date, and I was excited—until he canceled with a lame excuse. Devastated, I berated myself, “What were you thinking at my age?” I cried, feeling defeated—until a knock came. I opened the door to Lucy and Michael.

“Mom, I sabotaged the date,” Lucy confessed. “He’s my boss, and I panicked. I’m sorry.” Michael smiled. “I’m here now, Phoebe. You’re worth it.” Tears fell, but this time with hope. Lucy stepped back, leaving us. We talked, laughed over dinner, and I felt alive again. Weeks later, Michael took my hand. “Let’s see where this goes—with you and Lucy.” I smiled. “Together.”