Caroline’s Unwelcome Visit

VIVIENNE

I stared at my phone, waiting for the video call to connect. I had been thinking about the kids all day, wondering how their first day went with Ezekiel. As soon as Vera’s face popped up on the screen, my heart warmed.

It’s hard, you know—trying not to be so possessive of them. I’ve been telling myself they need space, and that I shouldn’t check on them constantly, but it’s easier said than done. They’re my world, and it’s like a part of me is missing when they’re not with me. I know Ezekiel’s their father, and I need to trust him, but there’s always this tug in my chest that makes me want to call or show up just to make sure they’re okay.

I don’t want to be the mom who can’t let go. I’ve seen how that can suffocate a person. But they’re my kids, and I’ve been with them through everything. It’s hard not to feel like I need to protect them all the time. Still, I’m trying. I have to let them experience life with their dad without hovering over them.

But no matter how hard I tr