My Wife Said ‘Give Her Back’—But I Chose Our Daughter Instead (3 of 3)

The days that followed were heavy with grief. Sophie didn’t understand. She asked where “Mommy” went, and I gave the only answer I could: “She had to go somewhere, but I’m here. I’m not leaving.”

We clung to each other. Bedtime stories became therapy. Pancakes for dinner returned. Slowly, she smiled again.

Claire and I met once more—with a mediator. She said she regretted everything, but my mind was made up. I had a daughter to raise. I couldn’t protect both of them—and I refused to fail Sophie.

Today, it’s just the two of us. Our home is smaller in numbers but deeper in love. Sophie’s room is filled with fairy lights and stuffed animals. She sleeps soundly now.

Some nights I still stare into the quiet and wonder how we got here. But then I hear her tiny feet padding down the hall, her sleepy voice calling, “Daddy?”

And I remember exactly why I stayed.