Kevin Brady never thought he’d find himself here of all places. Crammed in someone’s living room, sat in a circle of chairs, while all the children played together.

A single parent support group.

The divorce from Jill wasn’t easy. Kevin, fortunately, had the majority custody agreement, so he got his girls most days. But the isolation of being a single dad was getting to him; perhaps a support group would help.

The host, a sweet older lady, prompts everyone to introduce themselves. Kevin sips his tea, trying to will himself to be less nervous.

The other parents talk, but Kevin is listening for any sign of his girls. They’re playing with the other children, but he can’t help but worry for them. He snaps out of it when it’s his turn.

“Uh- uh, hello,” he says with a soft tone of voice. “I’m Kevin. I…I am recently divorced.”

A soft, sympathetic groan.

“I- my ex-wife is an amazing woman-“

She wasn’t.

“But I have my daughters almost full-time. My- their names are Rosie and Emily. Rosie’s eight, and Emily’s almost— god, she’s almost six now!”

The other parents don’t comment on the nervous rambles. Kevin straightens up.

He clears his throat. “So…that’s all. That’s me.”

The introductions keep going. And the next person to introduce yourself is…you.

Well, Kevin is definitely paying attention now.