{"id":4448,"date":"2024-12-21T14:30:11","date_gmt":"2024-12-21T14:30:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/scenicwhispers.com\/?p=4448"},"modified":"2024-12-21T14:30:13","modified_gmt":"2024-12-21T14:30:13","slug":"i-returned-home-after-giving-birth-to-find-my-babys-room-destroyed-and-repainted-black-3","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/scenicwhispers.com\/archives\/4448","title":{"rendered":"I Returned Home after Giving Birth to Find My Baby\u2019s Room Destroyed and Repainted Black&hellip;"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class='\"mg-header\"'>\n<article class='\"page-content-single' small single>\n<div class='\"code-block' code-block-1>The soft beep of monitors filled the hospital room as I cradled my newborn daughter, Amelia, in my arms. Her tiny fingers wrapped around mine, and I couldn\u2019t help but marvel at her perfect features. Those tiny feet, button nose. She was PERFECT! The C-section had been tough, but holding her made it all worth it\u2026\n<p>&nbsp;\n</p><p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I sat on the couch, scrolling through pictures from last year\u2019s family trip \u2014 just me, my parents, and my siblings. My boys weren\u2019t in any of them. Mike always insisted they stay home with him.\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.thecelebritist.com\/d2lepkrSfqgW_xL7OwihGNrXFq-hgYVKgN24G0-7D84\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMDlhNWQxOTQ4NzQ0OTcxNWU5M2MyY2UxNDI4MzcxODdiOTViNGJhZDc2OTMwMjE0ZTNlNGE3ODE0MjA4Y2FlYS53ZWJwP3dpZHRoPTEwMDAmaGVpZ2h0PTE1MDA.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/09a5d19487449715e93c2ce142837187b95b4bad76930214e3e4a7814208caea.webp%5C%22" alt='\"A' woman with her phone looking at laptop source: pexels width='\"1000\"' height='\"1500\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A woman with her phone looking at her laptop\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Ethan climbed onto my lap, peering at the photos. \u201cMom, can we go to the beach this summer? Please?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYeah!\u201d Ben said, looking up from his Lego project on the floor. \u201cLike, a real beach. Not just the lake. Uncle Tim told me Hawaii has black sand!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I smiled and kissed Ethan\u2019s hair. \u201cWe\u2019ll see.\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.thecelebritist.com\/Cbrlp4MP9_d1LLz0cpk5yiz6QFmsb2Huf3CBsd-WMz4\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZWViNjc1NzQ2MjkyNjYxYjIwNDI1OTc4MzhiYTcyMDIwYzgwNTI0YzQ2MzdhZDljMjQzZGZhMzU0MWM0ZjUyMC53ZWJwP3dpZHRoPTEwMDEmaGVpZ2h0PTE1MDA.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/eeb675746292661b2042597838ba72020c80524c4637ad9c243dfa3541c4f520.webp%5C%22" alt='\"A' mother talking to her son source: pexels width='\"1001\"' height='\"1500\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A mother talking to her son\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Planning a vacation was always bittersweet. I loved the adventure, the sun, and the memories I made with my parents and siblings. But every time for the past 17 years, leaving Mike and the boys behind weighed on me.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhy don\u2019t we ever go, Mom?\u201d Ben asked, his voice careful. \u201cDad says vacations are just for grown-ups.\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.thecelebritist.com\/PaYZsTOViyLBg8s6N-IuHxTf0IrotjP7PnoG_iEO1YI\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vN2FkNDE5NTEzZTBlNDExNDBlNmU2YTA5ZDA0ZGE0NGVlNDEwM2QzNTNmMzUyM2E4NDBlOWNmZDNmYmQyZWM1NS5qcGc_d2lkdGg9MTgwMCZoZWlnaHQ9MTIwMA.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/7ad419513e0e41140e6e6a09d04da44ee4103d353f3523a840e9cfd3fbd2ec55.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"A' woman with her son source: freepik width='\"1800\"' height='\"1200\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A woman with her son\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cThat\u2019s not true,\u201d I said softly, my chest tightening.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cBut he always says no when we ask,\u201d Ethan added.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cHe just\u2026\u201d I hesitated, struggling to find the right words. \u201cDad\u2019s not a big fan of traveling. But we\u2019ll figure something out.\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.thecelebritist.com\/J0Qb7TJX3eVPSRk8tht09R1v6TtCow7vIBMnYzXjvpc\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMTZjOGExMTQ5MzJjZmFhNGJkNDJlMGNjY2I0YTkzNDJmYjY0ZjExNDljNWUxYWNmNzFhNGYwODU3NWY3ZjhlNi5qcGc_d2lkdGg9MTQ4MCZoZWlnaHQ9MTE4Mw.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/16c8a114932cfaa4bd42e0cccb4a9342fb64f1149c5e1acf71a4f08575f7f8e6.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"A' woman talking to her son and drinking tea source: freepik width='\"1480\"' height='\"1183\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A woman talking to her son and drinking tea\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The truth was, Mike didn\u2019t just dislike traveling, he actively resisted it. Every time I brought up a family trip, he\u2019d shoot it down with a vague excuse.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>\u201cIt\u2019s too expensive.\u201d\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>\u201cYou don\u2019t need to take the boys. They\u2019re too young to remember it anyway.\u201d\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>\u201cIt\u2019s better if they stay here with me.\u201d\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.thecelebritist.com\/rWtimep0mU5O0D9FFbYAu5w2Wm2oCO_eJt-SGGIzIdo\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYzliNzE0NGRiMTExZmRjMTQ2NmU2Y2JjNTMzYWFkNDIyOGVjMzkyZDQ5NWViNjAwMmVhZjBjMDZiZDRkMWNlMC53ZWJwP3dpZHRoPTIwNzYmaGVpZ2h0PTE1MDA.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/c9b7144db111fdc1466e6cbc533aad4228ec392d495eb6002eaf0c06bd4d1ce0.webp%5C%22" alt='\"A' serious couple talking source: pexels width='\"2076\"' height='\"1500\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A serious couple talking\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Eventually, I stopped asking. Arguing about it never got us anywhere.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>When my mom called a few weeks later, her voice was both excited and uncertain.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cLauren, I\u2019ve been thinking\u2026 I want to take the whole family to the Virgin Islands this summer. One last big trip while I can still do it. The kids should come too.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"AdvTitle_wrap__5d8cN\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__jzkn_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_4\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_celebritist_intext_04\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_4\"' 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.thecelebritist.com\/L85FfQRSVIkYEcKCbZSInFC_rfAiZWeDSjyoyzzM1eE\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYjRhMGJiMjg0NDYxNmMzNTU2YjI0YWMwMTZkNGRmYzMzYmY4ZDExMzViOTUzODBjMmMyNjA1ZGY2ZWVmOTkzZS5qcGc_d2lkdGg9MTgwMCZoZWlnaHQ9MTIwMA.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/b4a0bb2844616c3556b24ac016d4dfc33bf8d1135b95380c2c2605df6eef993e.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"An' elderly woman on her phone source: freepik width='\"1800\"' height='\"1200\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>An elderly woman on her phone\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The Virgin Islands. Her favorite place in the world. She and Dad had gone there every other year until he passed. I knew this wasn\u2019t just a vacation for her, it was a way to create memories with her grandchildren while she still could.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMom, that sounds perfect,\u201d I said. \u201cI\u2019ll talk to Mike.\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.thecelebritist.com\/hVBygseOGDX92K56sBbKHyi1sUr6eGl5tSOBfAUxf3Q\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNWNhOWNiNDYzOWFiM2MyZWU0OGIyNDFjOGViNDQ3M2Y2OGRhYWRjMzQxZjEwYzkyODBmMjBiY2Y3YjlmYzJmMy53ZWJwP3dpZHRoPTEwMDImaGVpZ2h0PTE1MDA.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/5ca9cb4639ab3c2ee48b241c8eb4473f68daadc341f10c9280f20bcf7b9fc2f3.webp%5C%22" alt='\"A' happy woman talking on her phone source: pexels width='\"1002\"' height='\"1500\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A happy woman talking on her phone\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cDon\u2019t let him stop you,\u201d she said gently. \u201cThe boys deserve this, and so do you.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>That evening, I brought it up while Mike and I were cleaning up after dinner.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMom wants us to go to the Virgin Islands this summer,\u201d I said.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He didn\u2019t look up from the plate he was drying. \u201cThat\u2019s far.\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.thecelebritist.com\/o7ijVU2E0LISoGoxoRQPkitSpdb8bCjR0JvflnposvA\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vY2E5ZWM4NmMxM2I1MzQ1YzQ2NzAxYjY4N2IwMDA0NjMwNDUwYzU1ZTQ2MmU3NzJjODQ3M2I1YzcwYzY5Y2M1My53ZWJwP3dpZHRoPTEyMDAmaGVpZ2h0PTgwMA.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/ca9ec86c13b5345c46701b687b0004630450c55e462e772c8473b5c70c69cc53.webp%5C%22" alt='\"A' couple talking source: pexels width='\"1200\"' height='\"800\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A couple talking\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cIt\u2019s her favorite place. She\u2019s been talking about taking the boys there for years. This might be her last chance to go with them.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He sighed. \u201cAnd what happens when the boys get bored or tired? Who\u2019s dealing with that?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"AdvTitle_wrap__5d8cN\"'><span class='\"AdvTitle_text__VO0tZ\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__jzkn_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_2\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_celebritist_intext_02\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_2-1\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cThey\u2019re old enough to handle a vacation, Mike,\u201d I said firmly. \u201cAnd they\u2019ll love it. They\u2019ve been asking to go somewhere new for years.\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.thecelebritist.com\/KmN7hv2PJAFtJ-5g20RCPOHmqk9CgSkYpWufyLg2628\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYzk0YWUxNGI4OTdjMjUzNzQ4OTNiYzI4ZDg1YzdkNGFiYzE5OWJkYzc5OTRmYmM5OWJiOWM0MjIzYWU4OTZlOS53ZWJwP3dpZHRoPTEyMDAmaGVpZ2h0PTgwMA.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/c94ae14b897c25374893bc28d85c7d4abc199bdc7994fbc99bb9c4223ae896e9.webp%5C%22" alt='\"A' couple arguing source: pexels width='\"1200\"' height='\"800\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A couple arguing\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cThen take them.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I blinked, unsure I\u2019d heard him right. \u201cYou\u2019re okay with me taking the boys?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cSure,\u201d he said with a shrug. \u201cMaybe, I\u2019ll think about going myself.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>For a week, I held onto a little bit of hope. Maybe, just maybe, Mike would surprise me and decide to join us. But when I mentioned the flights, he shut down completely.\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.thecelebritist.com\/AaoOwNYnrpDqnjRs5IUn38_lNdFyUmoZMgydvtvwF3s\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMWRlZWU0MTNjOTdmYjE1OTRkYTc1NDdhMWZkMTMxODM1YmNiMTFlMjg5NjBmNGQ3NjI2MzYxNGY5Njk3YjQxOS53ZWJwP3dpZHRoPTEyMDAmaGVpZ2h0PTgzOQ.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/1deee413c97fb1594da7547a1fd131835bcb11e28960f4d76263614f9697b419.webp%5C%22" alt='\"A' man deep in thought source: pexels width='\"1200\"' height='\"839\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A man deep in thought\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI didn\u2019t realize you\u2019d have to fly,\u201d he said, his voice tight.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMike, it\u2019s the Virgin Islands. Of course, we have to fly.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI\u2019m not comfortable with that,\u201d he muttered, his hands gripping the edge of the counter.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cIt\u2019s one flight,\u201d I said, exasperated. \u201cYou\u2019ll be fine.\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.thecelebritist.com\/3w0pyJajN2u1LPEZCUWGc-jA1LpUB8yxiPjDPleDAyQ\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMjY4NWNiYzZhNmQ5N2E4ZDI0NTg5YjdlZjIyNjZjMDkzN2UxZTc5ZDg3YjU2MDQ3ZmY2NWU1MzY5NTI1YWRmYy5qcGVnP3dpZHRoPTEwMDAmaGVpZ2h0PTE1MDA.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/2685cbc6a6d97a8d24589b7ef2266c0937e1e79d87b56047ff65e5369525adfc.jpeg%5C%22" alt='\"A' woman arguing with her husband source: pexels width='\"1000\"' height='\"1500\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A woman arguing with her husband\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI said no, Lauren,\u201d he snapped, turning away.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>This time, I refused to let him hold us back. I booked the tickets for myself and the boys.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>When I told them, they couldn\u2019t believe it.\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__jzkn_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_4\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_celebritist_intext_04\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_4-3\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWe\u2019re really going?\u201d Ben asked, his eyes wide.\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.thecelebritist.com\/Ku1eZmUDRrp0AOt-tlafrgRv4NVQYF2nXZ6hiFxsi-Y\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZTk4Njc3NDBkNjg3YjkwYTIxZmZjZjlhMDczZTg1MGVjMDI2OThhYzA0MzRkM2QwN2ZmZTc2OWM3YmE3NDZiYi5qcGc_d2lkdGg9MTgwMCZoZWlnaHQ9MTIwMA.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/e9867740d687b90a21ffcf9a073e850ec02698ac0434d3d07ffe769c7ba746bb.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"An' excited boy source: freepik width='\"1800\"' height='\"1200\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>An excited boy\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cReally?\u201d Ethan squealed, bouncing on the couch.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYes,\u201d I said, smiling. \u201cWe\u2019re really going.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The flight was a new experience for the boys, and they were full of questions. \u201cHow high are we going?\u201d Ben asked. \u201cDo the pilots ever get lost?\u201d Ethan wanted to know. I answered as best as I could, their excitement making me laugh.\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.thecelebritist.com\/uhjAJMvUt9_J9kRwi-O2lHSvFCnmotlb8oUANmhEWoU\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNWFjNWViMjk4OGIzNjg5OTk1MTY1OGI4YzI5NjdjNGMzZjUxM2Q0ZDJlOGMwODRmZWU1YTA2YmRkZDQ3YmZmMS5wbmc_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.thecelebritist.com%5C/5ac5eb2988b36899951658b8c2967c4c3f513d4d2e8c084fee5a06bddd47bff1.png%5C%22" alt='\"Boys' on a plane source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>Boys on a plane\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>When we landed in the Virgin Islands, the boys bolted down the beach, their laughter echoing in the salty air. My mom hugged me tightly.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI\u2019m so glad you brought them,\u201d she said, her voice thick with emotion.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI am too,\u201d I admitted, watching the boys chase each other along the shore.\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.thecelebritist.com\/G_9OJTngso1ANTwgtgnahM0kcV_8BLzJQVKROVi511g\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMDQyNGMzZTU5ZGRmNjRjY2VmY2VjODcyNzYxNDFiZTNmMWE4NzY0Y2FiNjI2MWY4MzFiZTc0YmZjMmU4MWZjZi5qcGc_d2lkdGg9MTgwMCZoZWlnaHQ9MTE5OA.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/0424c3e59ddf64ccefcec87276141be3f1a8764cab6261f831be74bfc2e81fcf.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"Boys' playing on a beach source: freepik width='\"1800\"' height='\"1198\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>Boys playing on a beach\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The days were packed with building sandcastles, snorkeling, and family dinners filled with stories and laughter. But at night, when the boys were asleep, I couldn\u2019t shake the nagging feeling that something was wrong.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Mike\u2019s calls were short, his tone distracted.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cEverything okay at home?\u201d I asked one evening.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"AdvTitle_wrap__5d8cN\"'><span class='\"AdvTitle_text__VO0tZ\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__jzkn_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_2\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_celebritist_intext_02\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_2-5\"' 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.thecelebritist.com\/QsIM1gKrE8YI8tlVsL8FENWbqkXfNGDDvtVXd8vunS0\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNTNlZjU3ZjZkOWNiZjQwYjk5MzZiOWI2ZWFlYzEzNzU3ODQ1NGM0MjNjYzZhNGYwODUxYzgwNGJiZTZjYzM4MC5qcGc_d2lkdGg9MTgwMCZoZWlnaHQ9MTIwMA.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/53ef57f6d9cbf40b9936b9b6eaec137578454c423cc6a4f0851c804bbe6cc380.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"A' woman on the beach talking her phone source: freepik width='\"1800\"' height='\"1200\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A woman on the beach talking on her phone\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYeah,\u201d he said. \u201cJust busy.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cBusy with what?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWork. Stuff.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>His clipped answers made my stomach twist. After we hung up, I stared at the moonlit ocean, the weight of our growing distance pressing down on me.\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.thecelebritist.com\/X1crgtRY51DCOy72qD_Yfod3hSveoGBaeDLewOf7hzw\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTRmYWZlNWYyMmY4Y2FiNDEyMmViZGQ4ZTFhM2RhYTIzMjQxYzIwYmIyNTQ4MTg2YmUwYjgyYjMyZGY1YTAxYi5qcGc_d2lkdGg9NzQwJmhlaWdodD0xMTEw.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/a4fafe5f22f8cab4122ebdd8e1a3daa23241c20bb2548186be0b82b32df5a01b.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"A' sad woman on a beach source: freepik width='\"740\"' height='\"1110\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A sad woman on a beach\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The boys were asleep when I made my decision. I stood on the balcony of our rental, the sound of waves crashing below, and dialed my mom.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI think I need to head back early,\u201d I said, staring into the dark water.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Mom was silent for a moment. \u201cIs everything okay?\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.thecelebritist.com\/AsLix3_0a1B3QMzxcG2RQGLNjYmEGbTy4iR3NV1Pibs\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMmUwNzZjYzY1M2YwNTE1Yzg0NmIzYTg1ZTRkYzc4YTVkZTE0ZjY3NjViMzM3ZGJkOGU4OGJmNTQ2YTBmMjRjNC5wbmc_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.thecelebritist.com%5C/2e076cc653f0515c846b3a85e4dc78a5de14f6765b337dbd8e88bf546a0f24c4.png%5C%22" alt='\"Two' women talking on a beach source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>Two women talking on a beach\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI don\u2019t know,\u201d I admitted. \u201cMike\u2019s been acting\u2026 strange. Distant. And the phone calls aren\u2019t helping.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYou\u2019ve done the right thing bringing the boys,\u201d she said gently. \u201cThey\u2019re having the time of their lives. You can trust me to keep an eye on them. Go do what you need to do.\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.thecelebritist.com\/PirSSpY1kS3lYE3fr9DrkmO5rTFyNPh5JnYyVn51RH0\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vY2UzNzExODkwMjI5ZDRkYzQyN2NlNTMwNzkxNTEyODA2NDlmZmM2MGZlYjhiMTFmMDg5MWUzMGFmNjBiNjJkNi5wbmc_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.thecelebritist.com%5C/ce3711890229d4dc427ce53079151280649ffc60feb8b11f0891e30af60b62d6.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' mother talking to her daughter source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A mother talking to her daughter\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>On the flight home, my mind was racing. I replayed every tense conversation, every sharp glance, every excuse he\u2019d given over the years to avoid vacations. I thought about the silence that had grown between us, the kind of silence that made you wonder if it was still worth fighting for.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Had I missed something? Was there a deeper reason for the way he acted? Or had we simply drifted too far apart?\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.thecelebritist.com\/E6epIZTAz1kBj68ZhbuHObEexT31ExFveSd6ouAVIT8\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYzA0MzY2ZmUxNDFmNmM0NjZhNzA1NGQ1M2I5Yjc3NDQyMGJjMzRlZDUxY2Y4MzAzMmMzZDJiZmUxN2Q2MTEzZS5qcGc_d2lkdGg9MTQ4MCZoZWlnaHQ9MTEyMQ.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/c04366fe141f6c466a7054d53b9b774420bc34ed51cf83032c3d2bfe17d6113e.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"A' thoughtful woman on a plane source: freepik width='\"1480\"' height='\"1121\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A thoughtful woman on a plane\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The knot in my chest tightened as the plane landed. I couldn\u2019t shake the fear that I was about to face something I wasn\u2019t ready to confront.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I walked through the front door and froze.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Mike was sitting on the couch with a woman I didn\u2019t recognize. She looked up, startled, but didn\u2019t say a word.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advintextbuilder_slot-wrapper___oz3g>\n<div class='\"AdvTitle_wrap__5d8cN\"'>\n<div class='\"Ad-Container' advslots_adv-square-wrap__va0pf advslots_adv-square-wrap__jzkn_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_1\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_celebritist_intext_01\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_1-8\"' 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.thecelebritist.com\/-WaOKX8OvNIfj4cSSWXvaYG4nsWczMpCJE84WqYIh0o\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNTdmMjQzNzQ0YzllMTk5Y2E0MjlkYjg3ODA1OTA2NGUxZTMxYWM2NWUxMzUwZjYwZmJmZmRiYjVlMmI1MDc3ZS53ZWJwP3dpZHRoPTIyNTAmaGVpZ2h0PTE1MDA.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/57f243744c9e199ca429db878059064e1e31ac65e1350f60fbffdbb5e2b5077e.webp%5C%22" alt='\"Man' talking to a therapist source: pexels width='\"2250\"' height='\"1500\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>Man talking to a therapist\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhat\u2019s going on?\u201d I asked, my voice sharper than I intended.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Mike stood up, his face pale. \u201cLauren, this isn\u2019t \u2014\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I held up my hand. \u201cDon\u2019t. Just don\u2019t.\u201d My chest was heaving, and my hands were shaking. \u201cI leave for a week, and this is what I come home to?\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.thecelebritist.com\/XYKldAMOJUMvnO7S6QUUWZkOXSdTGzVLgS-H40qDvRI\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vOGU0MWU2MTI0NDU3ZDQyMzdlZGE3NWRmZjEwODE3YTIxYWFmOGE1OTIxMzk5ODJlNTQ2YzdmMjdmMGVmMTEyYi53ZWJwP3dpZHRoPTEwMDAmaGVpZ2h0PTE1MDA.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/8e41e6124457d4237eda75dff10817a21aaf8a592139982e546c7f27f0ef112b.webp%5C%22" alt='\"A' shocked woman on a couch source: pexels width='\"1000\"' height='\"1500\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A shocked woman on a couch\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cIt\u2019s not what you think!\u201d he said, stepping toward me.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cThen what is it?\u201d I shot back. \u201cBecause it sure looks like you\u2019ve been having a grand old time while I was gone.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The woman stood. \u201cI think I should go,\u201d she said softly.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cNo,\u201d Mike said firmly. \u201cStay. Lauren, this is Dr. Keller. She\u2019s my therapist.\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.thecelebritist.com\/UPiFs3SnTMY5jTFMkHOL-breO_Y5KyMiu8yJObrFL3M\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjNmNmQxZWY3Y2MwMWIzOTkzM2VhZjBkMTFjY2E2NzU3ODc0OWQ1OTZkMjcyMDBlZTUyYWVjMTQzNmEzZGYyNS53ZWJwP3dpZHRoPTEwMDAmaGVpZ2h0PTE1MDA.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/63f6d1ef7cc01b39933eaf0d11cca67578749d596d27200ee52aec1436a3df25.webp%5C%22" alt='\"A' shy serious man source: pexels width='\"1000\"' height='\"1500\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A shy serious man\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I blinked, completely thrown. \u201cYour\u2026 therapist?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYes,\u201d he said. \u201cI know this looks bad, but please, let me explain.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I crossed my arms, my heart still pounding. \u201cStart talking.\u201d\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__jzkn_>\n<div class='\"AdvSlots_adv-square__246sC\"' data-slot-type='\"1\"' data-position='\"in_article_3\"' data-code='\"\/21668216007\/d_celebritist_intext_03\"'>\n<div id='\"in_article_3-10\"' class='\"AdvSlots_slot__YAMh2\"'>\n\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Mike ran a hand through his hair, his voice shaky. \u201cI\u2019ve been seeing Dr. Keller for a few months now. I didn\u2019t tell you because\u2026 I didn\u2019t know how to. I was embarrassed.\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.thecelebritist.com\/PY61v7-yiHriPdGtwlNxjFzTo387O9RQ3mkKD1yDuA4\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMzQxYWQxNDVlM2E1MjQ1NWQ3YmRlYzNlOWI2MDQ4YmQ4NWVlNWZjNTJlMTE5OWIwMmFlNTk1NmM1MmY0OWY4Mi53ZWJwP3dpZHRoPTEwMDAmaGVpZ2h0PTE1MDA.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/341ad145e3a52455d7bdec3e9b6048bd85ee5fc52e1199b02ae5956c52f49f82.webp%5C%22" alt='\"A' serious sad man source: pexels width='\"1000\"' height='\"1500\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A serious sad man\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cEmbarrassed about what?\u201d I asked, the anger giving way to confusion.\n\n</p><div>\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He sighed. \u201cLauren, I\u2019m terrified of flying. I\u2019ve been since I was a kid. The first time my parents took me on a plane, I had a panic attack in the airport. They just told me to \u2018suck it up\u2019 and stop being dramatic. I was seven years old, and I never forgot how that felt. I was afraid the boys would panic too if you took them on a plane this young.\u201d\n\n</p><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.thecelebritist.com\/C7Qit0hxNM0fuezMBEqFfTy4JfNJDJQjCOhRRus5xJ4\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZWZkM2I2ZDcyOWExMzc3ZWNhNWQxZGE4Y2M4MDljODZkYThkZjk3NWJjMWZmOGE4YzQzNDg3ZTA5NDM5MmMxNi53ZWJwP3dpZHRoPTIyNTAmaGVpZ2h0PTE1MDA.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/efd3b6d729a1377eca5d1da8cc809c86da8df975bc1ff8a8c43487e094392c16.webp%5C%22" alt='\"A' man talking to his wife at a therapist source: pexels width='\"2250\"' height='\"1500\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A man talking to his wife at a therapist\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I stared at him, stunned.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI\u2019ve been hiding it from you,\u201d he continued. \u201cEvery time you brought up a trip that involved flying, I panicked. But instead of admitting it, I just fought with you. It was easier to make excuses than to face the fear.\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.thecelebritist.com\/heP9qY1-iOkb0bVCAfH9ooSqPAyaR2OsvK5PeD47Qdc\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMzhhNzFiYzkxOWRmNTQzZWE5ZmRhOTIzOTI5ZjYyNWI4ZWJkNDVmYmZmZDVlY2JjYzI4YzdmZDkyY2MwNzU2MS53ZWJwP3dpZHRoPTIyNTAmaGVpZ2h0PTE1MDA.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.thecelebritist.com%5C/38a71bc919df543ea9fda923929f625b8ebd45fbffd5ecbcc28c7fd92cc07561.webp%5C%22" alt='\"A' man talking at a couple session source: pexels width='\"2250\"' height='\"1500\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A man talking at a couple\u2019s session\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Dr. Keller spoke up. \u201cMike asked me to come here today because he\u2019s been working on overcoming his phobia. He wanted to show you how far he\u2019s come and share this with you.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I looked at him. \u201cWhy now?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n</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></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></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></span></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></div></picture></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></div></span></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></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></i></p></div></i></p></div></i></p></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></picture></div></div></div></div></div></article></div>