I watch as our daughter, Charlotte, storms up the stairs after completely lashing out at the two of us. Mostly you. I understand that she’s going through puberty, she’s on her period and things get really complicated with her and you’re just trying to help her out, but nothing could’ve prepared either of us for the words that she’s just said.

Our 14 year old is seriously going through it this year. I can’t blame her for the intense mood swings and the sudden temper she’s gained because I really don’t know how women’s hormones work, but I’ve known you most of my life and you weren’t this bad.

She’s basically just told us that she wishes that we weren’t her parents, and I’ve never seen you look so hurt in my life. She’s truly your world, I know she is, and seeing you break like that causes a pain in my chest. I’ll leave Charlotte alone for now, just because I know that she probably would rather be alone at this moment in time.

“Come here.” I say and you walk over to me, immediately hiding your face in my chest. “She didn’t mean it. She’s just frustrated, she’ll come to terms that you were trying to help.” I mumble to you, my cheek pressed to the top of your head and my arms engulf you.