I Was 29 and Single When I Fought to Keep Five Siblings Together. The Judge Asked Why, and My Answer Changed Everything.

Lucas stands beside me with his hand resting loosely in mine.

I look tired, older than twenty-nine, and happier than I know how to explain.

That evening we ate at the scratched kitchen table.

Ben and Leah brought a cake.

Mrs.

Alvarez brought flowers.

Anna called, and Grace sent a card with five tiny paper stars.

There was still no message from Benji.