Anne never thought she’d run into Matthew at the mall. Her son, Alan, had darted off for a pretzel sample, and when she caught up, she froze. There he was—her ex-husband—wearing a mall uniform and holding a tray of pretzels. “Anne?” he asked, stunned. She barely recognized him. Gone was the polished executive she once knew.

Years ago, Matthew filed for divorce after Anne gave birth to their fifth daughter. He had always wanted a son and blamed Anne when it didn’t happen. Although they split, he continued living in their house, making her life unbearable—partying, bringing women home, and ignoring their daughters.

Everything changed when she reconnected with Harry, an old school friend. Harry offered her support and kindness, eventually inviting Anne and her girls to move in when things with Matthew hit rock bottom. After Matthew brought a girl home one night, Anne accepted Harry’s offer and left with her daughters.

The court granted Anne full custody and ownership of the house. Over time, her friendship with Harry blossomed into love, and they married. A year later, they had a son—Alan. With five big sisters doting on him and a kind father figure in Harry, Anne finally had the family she dreamed of.

Seeing Matthew again was surreal. He asked to sell their old house for money. Anne agreed to split the proceeds, even though she didn’t have to. Later, he tried reconnecting with the girls, but they wanted nothing to do with him.

Family, Anne learned, isn’t defined by blood—but by love.