Fate || BENNIFER

Shared Custody

Ben's P.O.V

I pulled up the car to the curb of Jennifer's house, the mother of my children. We hadn't been together for almost a year, but it still felt weird when I had to drop off the kids with her for her week.

Sam was sleeping in his car seat, but Sera and Violet were bouncing in their seats and their excitement ended up waking him up.

I let out a heavy sight as I put the car in park.

"Alright, we're here." I said as I unbuckled my seatbelt.

As I helped them out of their car seats, my eyes met Jennifer's for just a moment. It was always awkward when we saw each other, but we both knew we had to make shared custody work for the sake of our children.

I could tell they were excited to see their mom, but I didn't share that feeling. Violet and Seraphina ran up to her, and she picked them up in a big hug. I cracked a small smile.

They ran inside and I handed over the bags of clothes and toys for the week. Sam was still in the car, which she found weird because I would always get him out right after arriving.

"Why would you do that?" The smile had completely disappeared from my face and my tone was clearly deeper.

She didn't expect me to bring it up. Her expression didn't change right away, not until she knew what I meant.

"Oh come on. It was just a comment." She said unconcerned.

"Do you think this is a game?" I tried no to raise my voice but my anger was evident.

"It's the truth." She said to justify her actions.

I saw Violet and Seraphina waving happily through the window and I switched to a big grin to do the same. I didn't want them to think something was wrong. The moment they walked away from the glass, my original expression resurfaced.

"If we're still married it is because you won't sign the damn papers." My throat burned as I tried to stay calm.

"What's the hurry?" Her ironic tone was something I had always hated. "Oh yeah, she's pregnant."

"That has nothing to do with our divorce process. This should've been over a long time ago." I sighed. "Don't make me go further."

"That won't be necessary." She said.

"Then sign the papers." I said emphasizing every word. "If you don't do it for yourself or for me, at least do it for your children, and don't start a war that you perfectly know will affect them."

I walked to the car, where Sam had fallen asleep again. I was gentle and he didn't wake up. A small victory.

"Same time next week." And those were my last words for her.

They were getting inside by the time I got back in my car and a quick glance was all I gave her before driving away. My mind was still there long after leaving.