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Which is probably not a flattering comparison, and that’s super duper weird to say to your friend, but Whit’s one of those guys that has trouble getting ideas out of his head once they’re in. Like aw crap, those two are doomed for divorce! What a bummer.
You know, uh, what’s that word? Saying? Expression?
Oh yeah, uncanny valley, that’s it! Like, everyone keeps describing her as mom, auntie, big sister; that’s totally cool, but Whit remembers his mom giving better advice than that. His dad did all those adulting things, like bringing home dinner for everyone whenever mom was sick and asking How’s school? Are you getting along with everyone? Like he knew anything about Whit.
That kind of shallow, surface level care is perfect for Hu! He’s pretty sure she couldn’t handle how difficult actual unrewarding work is.
Maybe that’s too cold. It’s hard to live up to the perfect mother after all, and Hu is trying her best. They all are. That’s worthy of respect.
She shuffles in front of him. Oh, right. She did have a question for him. That’s why he started thinking about parenthood.
Her eyes betray her intentions. “So, what do you think? How can I mend things with Nico?”
He hums thoughtlessly. “What do I think… I think you should leave them alone for a bit!”
The answer makes Hu frown. “Is… that what you think I should do? In your professional opinion with relationships?”
“Yup, yup! Sorry, I know that’s not the answer you want to hear.”
She doesn’t look discontent with him in particular. Another one of those stoic Lin gazes! “Can I ask why?”
Whit tries not to be too honest.
“Once it’s in, resentment is pretty hard to get out. Loneliness will make them seek you out instead.”