Michelle exhales softly, more to herself than anything. “Seems fast.”

Bette finally glances at her but doesn’t say a word.

They step out of the school; Mickey swings between them for a moment before Bette gently steadies him and guides him toward the car.

Bette glances over at Michelle. “So, what are your thoughts?”

Michelle shrugs, her tone deliberately indifferent. “It’s fine, I guess… but expensive.”

Bette exhales slowly. “Michelle, you know I will take care of the tuition.”

Michelle rolls her eyes, a sharp edge creeping back into her voice. “You’re just in love with the school because you and your girlfriend are looking at houses in the area,” she says mockingly. She pauses, then glances at Bette again. “So, you’re selling our house.”

Bette doesn’t hesitate. “Correct.” She looks down at Mickey, her voice softening instantly. “Say bye to Mommy,” she says, signaling clearly that the conversation is over.

Michelle’s eyes lock onto Bette, emotion rising too quickly for her to hide it. Tears begin to cloud her gaze. “Wow… just like that… cordiality between us is over?”

Bette sighs, meeting her eyes with steady calm. “I told you that the only conversations I’m willing to have with you are about our child. Once that ends, I no longer have the need, obligation or desire to say anything to you… Now say goodbye to our son so he won’t be late for lunch at daycare. He’s well aware what day it is.”

Mickey perks up immediately, throwing his hand in the air. “Pizza day!”

Despite everything, a small smile pulls at Bette’s lips. She looks back at Michelle, silent and pointed.

Michelle gulps, forcing herself to pull it together. She bends down and scoops Mickey into her arms, holding him tightly. “Mommy loves you, honey,” she whispers, pressing a kiss to his cheek. “I’ll see you in a few days. Grandma and Grandpa are taking all the grandkids to Disneyland.”

Mickey lights up instantly, clapping his hands. “Disneyland!”

Bette smiles at her son, the tension easing for just a moment as she reaches out to take him back. Michelle hands him over, lingering for half a second longer than necessary before letting go.