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

‘I am.’

‘Are you sorry you did it?’

I looked out at a courtyard where dead leaves swirled against a bench.

‘No.

I’m sorry I thought wanting it badly would make everything simple.’

She laughed softly.

‘That sounds like growing up.’

At home, Ben was attempting to make dinner while the children gave conflicting instructions.