Beyond the Divorce by Third Blossom

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?"

her

ever lie

dining room, "Jenny, hurry up and eat! Mommy's taking

Jenny rushed out with her mouth still full.

a little adult, asked, "Have you finished

go." Jenny

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

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

the kids upstairs. Lauren was overjoyed to

two little angels

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

room burst into laughter. "Haha... Feels sorry? Is this an attack on your

if there's a

and Uncle Atlas did recently. So today,

helplessly. Kids these days were really

her hair. "Go

wasn't satisfied yet, teasing her, "Then you can come by