{"id":315,"date":"2024-11-05T07:30:00","date_gmt":"2024-11-05T07:30:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/momentsunfolded.com\/?p=315"},"modified":"2024-11-05T07:30:02","modified_gmt":"2024-11-05T07:30:02","slug":"my-husband-abandoned-me-during-labor-to-help-his-mom-with-groceries-he-soon-learned-his-lesson","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/momentsunfolded.com\/archives\/315","title":{"rendered":"My Husband Abandoned Me during Labor to Help His Mom with Groceries \u2013 He Soon Learned His Lesson"},"content":{"rendered":"<figure class='\"post-thumbnail\"'>When Aria is in labor with her and Dave\u2019s firstborn baby, she\u2019s horrified to see him leave the hospital just because his mother called. Things get worse when Aria discovers that the reason was because Dave needed to help with his mother\u2019s groceries. What is Aria going to do next?\n<div class='\"entry-content\"'>\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I never imagined I\u2019d be writing this, but here I am, needing to vent and share the valuable lesson my husband learned the hard way.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I\u2019m 32 and stepping into motherhood. My husband, Dave, is 34 and has always had a bit of a complicated relationship with his mother.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/atbio9LVJltMlr84U8tD4ePE9fBgEiHGnh2iyLEeo2I\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZDQ0MmIyNGM2NzliNDhiYTZjMjZjZGQwY2ExZWIxNTBmNjM1MzFkMTg2NmY1MmEzMzQ0Yjk4MjcxNmRiNjY5Ny5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/d442b24c679b48ba6c26cdd0ca1eb150f63531d1866f52a3344b982716db6697.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' close-up of a woman source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Marlene is the type of mother who called for every little thing, expecting him to drop everything and come as soon as she needed.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cHey, Aria,\u201d Dave would say. \u201cMom needs me, I\u2019ll be right back.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>And he would dash out of the house, ready to save the day.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/jeqSY0yMgB1VizM08-UfPTNbnUdXpr-ouhBPOKG0ocE\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vOGYzNTAxOTJlYTY2YWVlNjUyYzU2NWJmZjQ3ZDJmY2M2MjFjNTY4NTU1NTBmNDEzNWExZmM3MDcwMjJiMTNjNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9ODk2JmhlaWdodD0xMzQ0.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/8f350192ea66aee652c565bff47d2fcc621c56855550f4135a1fc707022b13c7.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' smiling older woman source: midjourney width='\"896\"' height='\"1344\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I used to find it endearing until the day I went into labor. I was at 38 weeks, and I knew that the time was coming.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>One evening, I felt the contractions start. Everything was going smoothly until I was about six hours into the agonizing labor.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cJust breathe, darling,\u201d Dave said, squeezing my hand. \u201cBefore you know it, our little girl will be here!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/eeMLi0RIbAmmfTtADk0R17LpqCKrlxstlVEW61SNg84\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjgxM2I4YjEyMjQxY2M0MTk5ZDVkNmU5OWZhMGRjMjNiYzQzYmI3OTY3ZDk3MmVjYTU3M2I3ZTU5YmVkM2Q4Ni5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MjA0OCZoZWlnaHQ9MjA0OA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/6813b8b12241cc4199d5d6e99fa0dc23bc43bb7967d972eca573b7e59bed3d86.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' smiling pregnant woman source: midjourney width='\"2048\"' height='\"2048\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>But then, Dave\u2019s phone rang, and he quickly stepped out into the hall to take the call. When he came back, he seemed a bit agitated.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Then, just a few minutes later, his phone buzzed with a text message. He read it and looked concerned, his eyes darting all over the room as he was lost in his thoughts.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_3\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_03\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_3\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhat\u2019s going on?\u201d I asked, already feeling anxious and vulnerable.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/OjlDYB-Ctof5Oda2v8XrI3sZzIVzBT5wdgEzZdy6nng\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMWMxMjExMjQwYzY1YmRlMTcyZjRkMjBiMDhmNDI1NmE4ZGU2ODgxMTA1MzQ4NTc2YTg4MGNkMTg4ZmY1MmYwNS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/1c1211240c65bde172f4d20b08f4256a8de6881105348576a880cd188ff52f05.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' frustrated man source: midjourney width='\"1456\"' height='\"816\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He looked at me, almost annoyed that I had the audacity to ask him.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI need to go, Aria. But it will be quick. I\u2019ll be quick, promise.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhat?\u201d I gasped, wincing as another contraction hit me. \u201cDave, I need you right here. I need you to be with me! Our baby is coming!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/WW5yA_5XOQiOUwqmE1XJ6uY_kdDVI_LIBRC5Uij2czY\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjk1MGU5N2E5ZTNlMDMxYzU2Nzk4NzE0ZGQxMmJjMDhhNmNiZjJiYThiMzQ2YTE3MWQ5OWM2MjA2NDcwMDk4OC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/6950e97a9e3e031c56798714dd12bc08a6cbf2ba8b346a171d99c62064700988.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' pregnant woman in hospital source: midjourney width='\"1456\"' height='\"816\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He sighed deeply.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI know. Of course, I know that,\u201d he said, barely making eye contact. \u201cBut it\u2019s my mom, and she said that she needs my help desperately.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cFor what?\u201d I nearly shouted. \u201cYou\u2019re leaving me here for your mother? I\u2019m sure she\u2019s fine!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/OHkqv2GEV_hFIhugKMO59P101R4wdCBFzC45BkumH2E\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMDZhN2FkY2RmYTRmOTkxYTQxZTdmZTkxZTVmM2Y5NmRjMzQ1ZjE4ZDA3NzkxMWMyNDI1YjgyNzFkYjQ2NzY1Mi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/06a7adcdfa4f991a41e7fe91e5f3f96dc345f18d077911c2425b8271db467652.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' close-up of an upset woman source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI\u2019ll be right back, Aria,\u201d he said. \u201cI swear.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He kissed my forehead before rushing out.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I couldn\u2019t believe that he would actually do this. It made absolutely no sense. I knew that my husband loved being there for his mother, but to actually leave his wife during labor?\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_1\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_01\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_1-0\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/blhsyqLLd7uZa-Ujtvp6ZVpavApPqVfASEpgSdiUMak\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjAzODUzZDk2NGQ1ZGNkZTZhOWMwNWU2MzRjOWM5ZjJjZTdiZDU3NTBiOGNkNjY2YWY2MTRhZDViYjJhZTY2OS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/603853d964d5dcde6a9c05e634c9c9f2ce7bd5750b8cd666af614ad5bb2ae669.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' concerned man source: midjourney width='\"1456\"' height='\"816\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Was this really the man I married?\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I felt abandoned in one of the most vulnerable moments of my life.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I tried to focus on the labor, paying attention to my breathing and whatever my body was going through. But then, my phone buzzed with a text from Dave.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>I\u2019ll be back soon, Aria. I promise. Mom just needs some help.\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/3cYFc1qg8k22diSw06kJZ2jGpkOytxR4Te156eXNBvw\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMjczYzJjYTZlOTY3MzE1OWVlMmVjMWIzZmUyNmY3N2I5MTk3MWRmY2FkZjdjNzBjZGRhOGJlZjk1YTEzMGJmNi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/273c2ca6e9673159ee2ec1b3fe26f77b91971dfcadf7c70cdda8bef95a130bf6.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' woman texting source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>Did something happen? Is she okay?\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>No, she\u2019s fine. She just bought groceries, and they\u2019re too heavy.\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>Are you serious right now, Dave? I\u2019m in labor, and you left me for groceries?\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/qtxwVRXNlIVJKk8srbL3chzNXe0J6xDOtU4mTLqOH68\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vY2IxZmRhMzU2OTMwMTllZjQzZmNkYzU3OGZmZWZmN2U3MTE1ZjFkNDA2NzJiODcyNjcwNTg3MDgwNmIwNDA3ZS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTM0NCZoZWlnaHQ9ODk2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/cb1fda35693019ef43fcdc578ffeff7e7115f1d40672b8726705870806b0407e.png%5C%22" alt='\"Grocery' bags in a trunk source: midjourney width='\"1344\"' height='\"896\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>Yes, I am serious. And stop being so selfish, Aria. My mom needs me.\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I was in shock. My blood pressure began to rise, alerting one of the nurses.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cTell me what\u2019s wrong?\u201d she said, glancing at the monitor displaying my vitals.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/DgLwzviS8YTdJUlxaO6vzJWDGhpITwQsJ07vjPFcn5I\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNzliMTI2MjE5YjA4NmViZmU5MGUxZTg2MTExNThjODM3YTJjNWU3Y2MyN2MyMmU1ZTc4ZGUwNDI1ZTJjN2Q2MC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9ODE2JmhlaWdodD0xNDU2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/79b126219b086ebfe90e1e8611158c837a2c5e7cc27c22e5e78de0425e2c7d60.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' close-up of a hospital machine source: midjourney width='\"816\"' height='\"1456\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I shook my head, tears streaming down my face. I didn\u2019t know how to utter a full sentence without breaking down completely.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cTell me, darling,\u201d the nurse said. \u201cIt will be better to let it out.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMy husband left me here,\u201d I said between deep breaths. \u201cHis mom needed help with her groceries, and he\u2026 left.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/j1bukHARzYEzYWcoNrVeLuCyV7hcJR-rq87hB82zu8Y\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYmJmMjE5ODNhYmY2MDQ1ZGMwNGY5NTkwYjZhNWY1ZTcwM2JlODMzMDM4OWI4ODExYTI2NGZiM2ZiNTBhODkwZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9ODk2JmhlaWdodD0xMzQ0.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/bbf21983abf6045dc04f9590b6a5f5e703be8330389b8811a264fb3fb50a890d.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' close-up of an upset woman source: midjourney width='\"896\"' height='\"1344\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The nurse\u2019s eyes widened in disbelief.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cHe left you while you\u2019re in labor? For groceries? Oh, honey!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYes,\u201d I whispered, feeling the weight of the situation crush me.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/7Te8Vj_sDF019eLnGhQdwidBTR5tjTzIfv4sEMf4yeY\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYmUwYTY0ODk0NmQyNzJkZTE3OWY1ODU0NTdkMjlkN2FjZGViMzY5MmU5Njg3YzBhMzk0OWZhNjNiYmJiZDE0OS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/be0a648946d272de179f585457d29d7acdeb3692e9687c0a3949fa63bbbbd149.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' smiling older nurse source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cIs there anyone else we can call? Someone to just hold your hand while your husband comes back?\u201d the nurse asked.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I nodded.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMy dad,\u201d I said. \u201cHe lives a few roads away, and I know he\u2019ll come here.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Thankfully, my dad was around the corner, getting fast food, when I called, and he rushed over with his food.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/xi1924LgnhabBkHoCepOG2-QY-acLlLTegw2uUDn8sE\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTNkNzk2ZDJkMWNhODhjNDRjNWE0ZGVhNGExZTlmMDVjZGI4ODM4ODQxZDZkMWE1ODRkZWQwYzUxNDg5MWRjOS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/a3d796d2d1ca88c44c5a4dea4a1e9f05cdb8838841d6d1a584ded0c514891dc9.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' close-up of an older man source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cDarling,\u201d he said, walking into the room, the smell of fried chicken taking over.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhere\u2019s Dave?\u201d he asked.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I told my father the truth, about how Dave had left me. And as I did, the contractions hit more frequently.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_1\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_01\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_1-4\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>My little girl was on the way.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/NvFSayavmE3FFGdJuobJ4odkq720EH1bbhBV5r_XqrA\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMTc1Nzc1OWVjNjhkZjA1MTk4OTE1ZTJlNTkwZDA4ZDYzZWVlMDMzMDViNDZhNmQyZTRlYThkZDZhYmM0MzgxNS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/1757759ec68df05198915e2e590d08d63eee03305b46a6d2e4ea8dd6abc43815.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' pregnant woman holding her stomach source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cPlease, Gloria,\u201d I told the kind nurse. \u201cCan you record the birth? I wanted my husband to do it, but he has the video recorder with him.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cOf course, darling,\u201d Gloria said. \u201cI\u2019ll get an intern in to do it, while I hold onto your hand the entire time.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Not long after, I gave birth to our beautiful daughter, Gabrielle, without Dave by my side.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/aLIQZf7OZ5OfPqZG9w94q-zfG-_P9gZ90VHU5Ip6iTM\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNWYxODA5YWE3YjA1Mjg4Njg1M2YwMDBkYzQxYzlhYTU1MTFkMzEwNGFmMWZlNmQ3MTZlZDU2MGY2MDA5MDViNi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/5f1809aa7b052886853f000dc41c9aa5511d3104af1fe6d716ed560f600905b6.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' hospital intern holding her phone source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Instead, I had Gloria on one side and my dad on the other.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>As I held my newborn daughter in my arms, the emotions overwhelmed me. Joy, love, and sadness intertwined. My dad sat beside me, his eyes filled with pride and concern.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cHe\u2019ll regret this, sweetheart,\u201d my dad said softly. \u201cBut right now, you need to focus on your baby girl.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I nodded, tears spilling down my cheeks.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/uVzcxl48-wZEHPwu9TJUNGyNRqICMHZECTAWUUfgfxM\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYjgwYTlmZGE3N2Y0ZGZlMmU2ZGMzMzg3M2YxODYzMTY4Y2RjNDAxNGE4N2MyYWU3ZjFjZGM4YThkOGQ5YmQ3Ni5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/b80a9fda77f4dfe2e6dc33873f1863168cdc4014a87c2ae7f1cdc8a8d8d9bd76.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' person holding a newborn source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI can\u2019t believe that he left us, Dad,\u201d I said. \u201cHow could he choose her over us? Will our lives be like this forever? If it were a genuine emergency, then I\u2019d understand. But this?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cDave will have to live with that decision,\u201d my dad replied. \u201cBut you\u2019re strong, and you have people who love you. We\u2019ll get through this.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/BW_8HO_Vig0K_Eww179xtVhmQKDZ5XlL8TGtMoXeTZA\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZTVkMjNhMzljYjJkMzVhMmM2MjIwZDZkNzc2NTAyMzYzMDNiYTdiMjA2Y2M1NDRhODEzYjBlOTI5NGE4YjZiMi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/e5d23a39cb2d35a2c6220d6d77650236303ba7b206cc544a813b0e9294a8b6b2.png%5C%22" alt='\"An' upset young woman source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Later, when it was certain that Gabi and I were fine and healthy and ready to be discharged, my dad took us to his house.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>When Dave finally made it to the hospital, we were gone. He texted and called, but I didn\u2019t respond.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Instead, I left a letter for Dave with Gloria. My father was also someone who never left home without his laptop.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/fZzyfDrxEB5i574yDYGPO3DBaQYUJF38QuHpcYvd6-M\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZjcxYTE0NmE5MmU5YWQzOTk2NzZlMThiODczZWIxN2FiMTA4OWJmZmZlZGI2ZTNiYzE1ZTE4OWE2MmFlYWY3NS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/f71a146a92e9ad399676e18b873eb17ab1089bfffedb6e3bc15e189a62aeaf75.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' hospital hallway source: midjourney width='\"1456\"' height='\"816\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cDad, do you have a flash drive?\u201d I asked him before we left.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cOf course,\u201d he said, searching his laptop bag. \u201cWhy?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI\u2019m going to save the birth video on it, and leave it here for Dave.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>My father looked at me closely before nodding.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/rCB2aLqkNyzsrBMiCaS43AOVK0_EvM5gDd01ES9IJlY\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZTliMjRjZTA0ZTMwMGIzZjFiY2M4NTZkNTg2NzA2MTcyMzU5MWI0OTQxYmYzMTc4MGY3Y2YxOTdiM2IwN2Q0Mi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/e9b24ce04e300b3f1bcc856d5867061723591b4941bf31780f7cf197b3b07d42.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' brown leather bag source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cPlease, just give him this letter and this flash drive,\u201d I said to her as we got ready to leave.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The letter read:\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>Dear Dave,\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>This is what you missed. This is the once-in-a-lifetime moment you chose to skip. I needed you more than ever, and you left me. Our daughter deserved to have both her parents there for her first moments in this world. This video shows the strength and resilience you\u2019ll never get to witness first-hand.\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_1\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_01\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_1-8\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>I hope you understand the pain and disappointment you\u2019ve caused. Maybe now you\u2019ll realize the sacrifice that comes with being a husband and father.\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>-Aria &amp; Gabi\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/wCoZcxw9jmV_2pczy8MQAG0uzUqQ6O-zzYRkqxH862A\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZTY4ZTAwYjAzZGZhMGU0OGJjNmE0ZTI5YjUxYWI5YTljNzhmYzM3MzVhYzgxODhlMGM1NWZkODJlMTNkNDEwZi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MjY4OCZoZWlnaHQ9MTc5Mg.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/e68e00b03dfa0e48bc6a4e29b51ab9a9c78fc3735ac8188e0c55fd82e13d410f.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' folded piece of paper on a table source: midjourney width='\"2688\"' height='\"1792\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>A few days later, my father invited our closest family to introduce Gabrielle. I didn\u2019t invite Dave. I knew that it was a cold gesture, but I didn\u2019t want to see him.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He showed up at my father\u2019s place anyway, looking remorseful and desperate.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cPlease, let me explain,\u201d he said, his voice trembling as he approached me.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/qyur_iHQ3St7AUsXTa8-azuqfOLIh_RkyBw83UnYSxQ\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZmY1ZjBiNTE1ZGRiOWMzOTYwZTcwZDk4MWI5MTQ4NDI2NDViNDhhODllMjFkMDJlMWZlMzg5MDM5NzU3ZTk4Yi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/ff5f0b515ddb9c3960e70d981b914842645b48a89e21d02e1fe389039757e98b.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' woman holding a baby source: midjourney width='\"1456\"' height='\"816\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I crossed my arms, staring at the man I had married.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cExplain what? That you thought groceries were more important than your daughter being born?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Aria,\u201d he said. \u201cI was torn between you and Mom. And I didn\u2019t know what to do. I chose wrong. Please, forgive me. I\u2019ll do anything to make it right.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/1bCUyHYCHTzuVeSvkczDIbx1qpr0uytN6x2K--YQBlY\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMDUwYzRlODgxYWUxNDI5N2VhOTI5MTYwYzI3MzQzYjI5MDVkMDVkNjUyYWRkZDE5NmZmYzdlNzRkMGRjNTQ4Zi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/050c4e881ae14297ea929160c27343b2905d05d652addd196ffc7e74d0dc548f.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' close-up of a man source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYou left me in the most vulnerable moment of my life, Dave,\u201d I said, trying to keep my voice steady. \u201cHow can I trust you after that?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI know I messed up,\u201d he said. \u201cI know I hurt you. But I want to make it right.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I refused to speak.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__bxsu_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_3\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_amomama_com_intext_03\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_3-10\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/agUKPHYJuT6m_O7IxmTWoBQHIGlnORxKOW-HX34Pdww\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNzEyOTRjMDE1MGM2YTEwMmJkYzI5YzlkYmM1NmIxMGE1MzdiMjkxYWQ1M2EwZDBhNjNkMzgwMmMyYzBiYmY5ZC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MjA0OCZoZWlnaHQ9MjA0OA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/71294c0150c6a102bdc29c9dbc56b10a537b291ad53a0d0a63d3802c2c0bbf9d.png%5C%22" alt='\"An' upset young woman source: midjourney width='\"2048\"' height='\"2048\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI hate myself for it,\u201d he said. \u201cI\u2019ll never forgive myself. Please, let me be here for you and our daughter. Let me prove that I can be the father she deserves.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cThis is your one and only chance, Dave,\u201d I said. \u201cYou need to show me, not just tell me, that you can be the man we need,\u201d I said firmly.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He nodded vigorously.\n\n</p><div>\n<div>\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.amomama.com\/F4lW9YlylM_uiqdv_tI_mHfUndZzv0Xu3zawUydS7hE\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMjQzNGZlN2RiMWU0N2ZiZmUyY2I5NGZjYWFkMzVkOWIwNmJkMjBmYjYxOWZmMWQwYWFkMzVlZDRhZTViZTYxNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTQ1NiZoZWlnaHQ9ODE2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.amomama.com%5C/2434fe7db1e47fbfe2cb94fcaad35d9b06bd20fb619ff1d0aad35ed4ae5be617.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' smiling man source: midjourney width='\"1456\"' height='\"816\"'>\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI swear, Aria, I will never let you down again.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>One evening, as we were putting our daughter to bed, Dave turned to me, his eyes filled with sincerity.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI know I\u2019ve said it before, but I\u2019m truly sorry. I never want to miss another moment.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I know that my husband has apologized profusely, but I\u2019m still waiting for my mother-in-law to apologize, too.\n\n</p><div>\n</div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></i></p></div></i></p></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></i></p></div></i></p></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></i></p></div></picture></div></div></div></div></i></p></div></i></p></div></i></p></div></picture></div></div></div></div></i></p></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></figure>