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

the dining room, "Jenny, hurry up and eat! Mommy's taking us out for a walk.

rushed out with her mouth still full. "Where

Ava, acting like a little adult,

can go."

out together, with Atlas holding Ava and me leading Jenny. We

reached Lauren's building. Watching us go upstairs, he left only after ensuring we were inside. His car then

upstairs. Lauren was overjoyed to

my goodness, two little

ran over. "Yeah, my mom feels sorry that she hasn't taken us

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

a mistake, it

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

helplessly. Kids these days

ruffled her hair. "Go and play. Stop