Beyond the Divorce

Dylan called right after dinner. Atlas answered with a few "yeahs" before hanging up.

Then he returned to the table, calmly finishing the meal with the family before saying, "I need to step out for a moment. I'll be back a little later."

I could tell by his demeanor that something important had come up.

I suggested, "Let's go together. I'll visit Lauren."

Ava wasn't too pleased and ran over to us, standing before us like a teacher. "You guys are always so busy. Can't you spend some time with me at home? You make me feel lonely!"

Aware of her loneliness, Atlas had already arranged for Jenny to keep her company. Yet, here she was, using loneliness to manipulate us.

We exchanged smiles, and Atlas bent down, picking up the little troublemaker.

In a gentle tone, he said, "I'm sorry. I know I'm wrong. I'll make sure to pay more attention to you next time."

"What about you, Mommy? Why aren't you sorry?" Ava looked at me solemnly, waiting for my response.

I quickly adopted a serious demeanor, telling her, "Alright, I'll be more mindful next time. Or...how about you and Jenny come with me for a little outing?"

Ava widened her eyes. "Really?"

I ever

hurry up and eat!

hearing Ava's call, Jenny rushed out with her mouth still full.

like a

go." Jenny

Atlas holding Ava and me leading Jenny. We cheerfully walked out of the

he left only

Lauren was overjoyed

goodness, two little angels

enthusiastically ran over. "Yeah, my mom feels sorry that she hasn't taken us out for so long. So, she brought

into laughter. "Haha... Feels sorry? Is this an attack

there's a

Mommy and Uncle Atlas did recently. So today, I scolded

these days were really

hair. "Go