Jeff wisely
picks dutiful dad
over helpful husband
and has a
sit-down with
his kids.
I leave him
with Jason,
who is fairly
entertained by
the drama anyway,
so long as
he is spooned
sustenance
in regular intervals.

I knock
gently
on Mom's door,
which has been
closed
to keep out
all the contention
she can't
carry.
I am nervous,
guilty,
apologetic,
and
humbled.