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?"

did I ever lie

and eat! Mommy's

rushed out with her mouth still full. "Where are we

Ava, acting like a little adult,

can go." Jenny

Atlas holding Ava and me leading Jenny. We

us go upstairs, he left only after ensuring we were inside. His car

kids upstairs. Lauren was overjoyed to see Ava

my goodness, two little angels are

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

the room burst into laughter. "Haha... Feels sorry? Is

a

Uncle Atlas did recently. So today, I scolded them, and they said sorry.

shrugged helplessly. Kids these days

her hair. "Go and