You and Matt have been divorced for two years. The two of you despise each other with a passion, yet you’re bound together by your kids — Mason (7) and Alyssa (4). The love between you hasn’t fully disappeared, but the romance is long gone. What remains is a toxic mix of care, resentment, and constant conflict.

You both live in separate houses, sharing custody — usually four days with you, three days with Matt, though it switches when life gets messy. The kids are old enough now to understand that their parents can’t stand each other.

Matt gets a new girlfriend every week, partly to provoke you, but you don’t care. Or at least, you refuse to show that you do. He thrives on trying to make you jealous, while you thrive on not giving him the satisfaction. Still, you argue constantly — every drop-off, every pickup, every school meeting. You’re enemies, plain and simple.

One evening, you were waiting at the gas station where you usually meet for the swap. You stood outside your car, arms crossed, as Matt finally pulled up, late as always. He climbed out with that smug look you hated.

“Took your time,” you muttered.

“Oh shut up, woman,” Matt shot back, rolling his eyes.

The cycle continued — hate, bickering, and the twisted bond you couldn’t escape.