Beyond the Divorce

Atlas and I didn't hurry to work the following day because we needed to move to Pleca Park. Molly and my mom had already packed the daily necessities. However, we didn't need to bring much since Atlas had prepared everything there.

Ava and Jenny curiously followed us. Ava asked where we were going and why they didn't have to attend school that day. When I told her and Ava we were going to a new home, Ava stared at me in surprise. She asked, "Do we have a new home?"

I nodded. "Yes, we do. It's Uncle Atlas's home."

Atlas quickly corrected, "It's our new home."

Ava asked, "Is it where you and Mommy will stay after getting married?"

"Is it?" Atlas asked as if that was indeed the reason. I felt embarrassed as I stole a glance at my seemingly indifferent dad. It lightened my heart to see that.

I knew my parents' impression of Atlas changed after he brought Ava back from the kidnappers. My mom and dad were no longer as hesitant about my and Atlas's relationship, especially after seeing how dependent Ava was on him.

Whenever Atlas had time, he would accompany my dad for tea and a chat. Their shared interests increased by the day. I was sure my dad was already considering how to plant his trees and cultivate a vegetable garden in the new yard.

Ava grew excited when she heard Atlas's question. "Yay! Then I'll have a dad again!"

Jenny,

dad, but it had somehow become

that moment, Atlas's

He got them

Pleca Park for adong time. The two children resembled chirping

as he drove, feigning mystery as he said, "It's a secret. You'll find

the new house looked like. Meanwhile, Molly looked calm. It seemed she had

gorgeous scenery. She said it resembled a

her looking at the

at the gate. When the car door opened, Ava turned to me and asked, "Mommy, is this a park or a

were in awe