“You did the right thing,” she whispered, resting her head against my chest. I wrapped my arms around her, holding her close.

For the first time in a long while, our home felt lighter, as if the walls themselves sighed with relief. While I knew this decision would bring challenges, especially for Samuel and Everly, it was necessary for Martha and me to reclaim the space that was rightfully ours.

Over the course of the next two days, we helped them find a small apartment nearby. They moved out quietly, with little drama, and though the parting was bittersweet, it was amicable.