In the weeks that followed, I tried to adjust to single motherhood. Managing feedings, diapers, and my grief over Jack’s life was difficult every day.
However, change came slowly. Friends and family brought meals and held the babies while I rested. This further deepened my affection for Sophie, Lily, and Grace. I felt joy from every smile, coo, or small hand on my finger, almost forgetting Jack’s absence.
Aknock at my home followed weeks later. I opened it to find Jack’s mother. Though pale, her eyes were full of grief.
“Emily,” she said, shivering. “I didn’t intend for this to happen.”
I crossed my arms, trying to stay calm. He was lied to. You convinced him his kids were a shit.”
As she nodded, tears came. Emily, I was scared. I thought… I figured he’d ignore me with you and the females. I never believed he’d depart.”
Only slightly did my fury soften. “Your fear split my family.”
Her face crumpled as she gazed down. “I know. I apologize deeply.”
I watched her briefly, but my thoughts was on my girls sleeping in the next room. “I have nothing else to say.”
She departed, and I closed the door, feeling strangely relieved and sad.
Jack appeared at my door a year later, looking like a ghost of the guy I loved. He begged to return, be with us, and be a family again after realizing his mistake.
Now I knew better. Looking him in the eyes, I shook my head. Jack, I have a family. You were absent when we needed you. I don’t need you.”
A weight lifted when I closed the door. I didn’t wreck his life, nor did our girls. He did it alone.
