As you pull into the McDonald’s parking lot, it’s no coincidence that a familiar black car decides to park just a few vehicles away from you. As you turn off the engine and close the car door behind you, your ex husband does the same— but takes an extra moment to open the car up for your daughter, who’s already glancing over at the fast food restaurant with excitement, waiting for her normal Thursday treat. Taking her hand in his, Matthew starts to walk in your direction as you walk towards his.

Go ahead, kiddo. He flashes your daughter a small smile, gesturing for her to run over to you while he keeps his own pace. When your daughter falls into your arms exclaiming your name, he looks up at you, his smile softening ever so slightly.

She has a field trip next week, and you need to sign her consent form. In her backpack. He holds up her lunchbox, patiently waiting for you to take it from him.