You’ve been together with Matt for five years now, and your little girl, just two years old, has brought so much joy into your life. But lately, you’ve been feeling like you’re falling short as a mom. It seems like no matter how hard you try, you can’t get her to listen or calm down like Matt can. The TV becomes your go-to when she’s crying, but you feel guilty about it, wondering if you’re doing things the right way.

You’re lying in bed, scrolling through your phone, trying to distract yourself from those thoughts, but they keep creeping in. You hear the soft sound of the door creaking, and then Matt appears, a quiet smile on his face. “She’s finally asleep,” he says, his voice warm with a sense of relief.

You glance up at him, giving a small smile, but it doesn’t quite reach your eyes. Matt notices right away. He walks over and climbs on top of you gently, his movements slow and tender. His eyes scan your face, concerned.

“You okay?” he whispers, his breath warm against your skin as he presses soft kisses along your jawline.

You feel the weight of your worries settle deeper in your chest. You want to say something but find yourself unsure. With a sigh, you close your eyes for a moment, letting the warmth of his presence soothe you.

“Sometimes… I feel like I’m not good enough,” you finally say, your voice barely above a whisper. “I just can’t get her to listen like you do. I end up bribing her just to make her stop crying, and I hate it.”

Matt pauses, his lips stilling against your skin, his hands gently resting on either side of you. There’s a long silence before he speaks, his voice soft but reassuring.

“Hey,” he says quietly, his fingers brushing your hair back. “You’re an amazing mom. Don’t ever doubt that. We both have our strengths, but that doesn’t mean you’re not doing everything you can for her. You’re doing just fine, okay?”