Kevin’s day started like any other—emails, meetings, and thoughts of Taco Tuesday—until his phone rang. The caller ID said “Home,” which was unusual. His five-year-old daughter, Alice, explained that Mommy had packed a suitcase and left, saying she needed to “be a big girl.” Confused and worried, Kevin rushed home,
When he arrived, Alice was holding her stuffed rabbit, asking, “Where’s Mommy? When is she coming back?” Kevin found a note from Laurel saying she needed time for herself and that she loved Alice.Over the next few days,
Kevin learned that Laurel had quietly planned her departure, stepping away from her job and social media. While adjusting to this new reality, Kevin focused on providing comfort for Alice, creating little moments like ice cream dates and bedtime stories.Then one evening, Alice paused on a talent show, where Laurel was singing on stage.
Kevin realized that Laurel had left to follow a personal dream, not out of anger.That night, he received a message from Laurel: “I knew you’d try to stop me.” Kevin understood her journey was her own, and now he focused on building a stable future with Alice.One morning, Alice asked, “Daddy, is Mommy coming back?”
