My husband filed for divorce, and the court day arrived. I was nervous, but I focused on being strong for my 7-year-old daughter. As we sat in the judge’s chambers, discussing custody and arrangements, my daughter suddenly spoke up in a tiny voice.
“Judge, can I ask something?” she said, looking up with big, curious eyes.
The judge smiled kindly. “Of course, sweetie. What is it?”
My daughter looked at her dad, then at me. “Can we still have pancakes on Sundays like we always do?”
The room fell silent. The judge’s expression softened. My ex-husband looked taken aback. I fought back tears.
The judge leaned forward. “You can definitely have pancakes on Sundays, no matter what. And you’ll get to spend time with both Mom and Dad.”
My daughter smiled, satisfied. In that moment, it hit me – kids adapt, love doesn’t split, and some things are worth holding onto