Mama’s Boy

Jeffrey Mannus is a 29-year-old bookstore clerk who still lives with his mother, Jan. He is possessive, quick to panic, and sees Mert's arrival as an intrusion on his 'territory.' His plot to dig up dirt on Mert and his willingness to use Nora to push him away reveal heightened insecurity and a troubling manipulative streak. Over the course of the story, he confronts his flaws, makes a clumsy attempt at redemption, and ultimately fights to repair his relationships with Jan and Nora.

Jan is Jeffrey's mother who begins a new romance with Mert after attending one of his talks. Her decision to move Jeffrey from his bedroom into the basement signals a shift in power and closeness with her partner. She alternates between warmth toward Nora and optimism about the engagement, then confronts the shock of Maya's revelation and the ensuing conflict. By the end, she reassesses her choices and supports a path toward reconciliation.

Mert Rosenbloom is a charismatic motivational speaker whose smooth delivery hides a volatile, controlling streak. He woos Jan after a talk and treats Jeffrey as a rival to be outmaneuvered, declaring 'war' whenever challenged. His actions reveal a deeper selfish streak, culminating in the revelation that Maya Sinclair is his daughter who he abandoned. He is driven by ego and the desire to be admired, even at the expense of family.

Nora is an aspiring singer-songwriter who befriends Jeffrey during a difficult period. She records a demo and performs at gigs, offering friendship and ambition. Jeffrey's manipulation, using her to stir trouble with Mert, strains their trust and complicates their relationship. She is furious when she discovers he used her to get rid of Mert, but they ultimately reconnect as the dust settles.

Maya is Mert's estranged daughter, revealed to have been abandoned by him when she was 12. Her presence exposes the hurt behind Mert's decisions and tests Jan's faith in him. She becomes a catalyst for the clashing loyalties and the eventual shifts in Jan and Mert's relationship. Her existence forces characters to confront past choices and their consequences.

Seymour is Jeffrey's former boss from the bookstore who shows practical support during the crisis. He bails Jeffrey out of trouble and offers a place to stay, demonstrating loyalty to his employee. He acts as a stabilizing presence amid the chaos and helps Jeffrey see his errors. His quiet aid underlines themes of second chances and practical kindness.