Michelle's ex-boyfriend has just gotten free from prison where he's spent the last 5 years, having been sentenced just days after their son's birth. Of course, his return would be anything but helpful for her and their reunion ends in a fight which results in him being out of her life for good. At this realisation, Michelle slowly breaks down until her son is able to bring her back. A 'what happens next' for the short story '$5 family' in the book 'Like a house on Fire' by Cate Kennedy but can be read without context *open to title suggestions*All Rights Reserved