Jen's Journal

Samuel woke up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee. He reached over and felt the space next to him. Ava must have woken up early to make coffee; a smile spread across his aging face. He threw a bathrobe on and walked over to the kitchen, expecting to find his wife but finding a note instead.

My Dear Sam, 

As you know, I haven’t been happy for a long time. I thought a husband and kids were all I ever wanted. For a while, I believed it. When our first son was born, I couldn’t believe how I could love someone so much. You were the love of my life, and I was happy. 

Somewhere along the way, I felt trapped in static life. Everyday life became mundane. I felt myself giving everything, and getting nothing back. Maybe that’s what motherhood is. That’s why I had to get out; before I lose my mind before I start to resent my own family. 

You have no idea how sorry I am for doing this. I contemplated for months whether I should leave you or not. I realized that I have to do this, not just for myself, but for you guys. I know you’ll take care of our kids better than I ever could. 

I Will Always Love You,

Ava

Samuel couldn’t keep his legs from giving out under him. He crumpled the letter in his hands and cried out a sob that echoed throughout the house. One by one, Samuel’s kids walked into the kitchen and saw their dad sitting on the ground. They didn’t know what was wrong, yet still, they came up to him and tried to soothe him. 

He went to work a couple of hours later. For the rest of the world, this was still just a normal Wednesday. Now he had four kids to feed on his own. As soon as he clocked into the factory, he knew this wouldn’t be a productive day. His heart was heavy, and his stomach empty. He never packed his lunch. He gave the kids what little change he had so could eat today, and that was enough to sustain him for now.