My younger brothers and sister ate their breakfast, and I helped Mom clean up after them. At that age, they were still messy little eaters. Mom smiled and thanked me softly. Then she started getting them dressed to go out to the park, and once again I pitched in to help. It helped take my mind off of my anger as I put on their shoes and helped get them situated in Mom's minivan and made sure they were securely in their car seats.
Mom gave me a smooch on the cheek.
"Thanks, Jason," she said with a smile. "We'll see you around noon."
"Have fun," I replied. Then I turned and bent to look at my little brothers. "You guys be good for Mommy, okay?"
"Okay, Jason!" they replied.
I closed the door, and smiled and waved as they drove away.
Mom had a handful of friends who also had young childr
