When Sophie’s kids said they wished she didn’t exist, their words struck deeper than any pain she’d ever felt. Angry and careless, they didn’t realize the weight of their words. Sophie decided to take their wish seriously, vanishing from their lives without a trace. It was time they learned what life would be like without her.
People often said being a housewife was easy—staying home, relaxing, living off a husband’s hard work. What a misconception.
For Sophie, being a stay-at-home mom was no simple task; it was an unending marathon with no breaks. Her days blurred with cleaning, cooking, soothing tantrums, and managing countless other responsibilities.
Liam, her spirited but headstrong five-year-old, was at an age where every small thing sparked a battle.
Clara, nearing her pre-teen years, was brimming with attitude and unpredictable moods.
And her husband, Nathan? He believed his paycheck excused him from household duties. It was exhausting.
That evening, as usual, they gathered for dinner. Sharing their day was a routine, often filled with unexpected moments.
Sophie looked at Liam, who was poking at his peas. “Liam, how was preschool today?” she asked, forcing a cheerful tone.
He shrugged. “It was fine, but Miss Carter might call you tomorrow.”
That caught her off guard. “Why would she call?” Sophie asked, setting down her fork.
“I wanted to pet a dog outside, but Miss Carter said you shouldn’t touch stray dogs because they might have rab—rab—” Liam frowned, searching for the word.
“Rabies,” Clara cut in, rolling her eyes dramatically.
Liam nodded. “Yeah, rabies.”
“And why would that make her call me?” Sophie pressed.
Liam hesitated, then blurted, “I didn’t like what she said, so I bit her.”
Sophie stared, stunned. “You bit your teacher?” Her voice rose unintentionally.
Liam nodded, unfazed. “She said rabies comes from bites. I wanted to show her.”
“Mom, you raised a wild animal,” Clara muttered, smirking.
“Don’t talk about your brother like that,” Sophie said sharply. She turned to Nathan, who was focused on his food. “Nathan, do you have anything to say?”
He glanced up briefly. “You’re doing great, babe,” he said, giving her hand a quick pat.
Sophie sighed, turning back to Liam. “We’ve been over this, Liam. You can’t bite people. It hurts, and it’s wrong. Use words to express yourself next time.”
Then she faced Clara. “How was your day?”
“Fine,” Clara said, barely glancing up.
“That’s it?” Sophie asked.
“Oh, I’m staying at Mia’s tomorrow, remember?” Clara added casually.
“Yes, I remember,” Sophie said, feeling her energy wane.
The next day started poorly and spiraled. When Sophie checked Liam’s room, expecting it to be tidied as she’d asked, it looked like a storm had hit.
Toys, clothes, and books were scattered everywhere. Her patience frayed, but there was no time to address it.
She had to apologize to Miss Carter for Liam’s bite, which was mortifying.
Then, as she finally sat down to catch her breath, the phone rang. Clara’s school reported that she had skipped classes. Sophie’s frustration boiled over. By the time the kids got home, she was ready for a serious conversation.
“Both of you, stop right there,” Sophie said as Liam and Clara headed to their rooms. Her tone halted them in their tracks.
“What now?” Clara asked, sounding annoyed.
“Let’s start with you, Liam,” Sophie said. “I saw your room. It’s a mess. We agreed if you didn’t keep it clean, I’d take your games. Your console is mine until you show me you can keep it tidy.”
Liam’s eyes widened. “What? No way! That’s not fair!” he shouted, crossing his arms.
Clara smirked. “Good one, Liam,” she said mockingly.
“I wouldn’t laugh, Clara,” Sophie snapped. “Your school called. You skipped class.”
“It was just once!” Clara yelled, her face flushing with anger.
“You’re grounded for a week,” Sophie said firmly. “No sleepover at Mia’s.”
“You can’t do this! I’ve been planning that forever!” Clara screamed, fists clenched.
“Then you shouldn’t have skipped class,” Sophie replied calmly.
“I hate you! I wish you didn’t exist!” Clara shouted, storming to her room and slamming the door.
“Yeah! Me too!” Liam yelled, running to his own room.
Sophie stood there, tears stinging her eyes. Her chest felt heavy, but she swallowed the lump in her throat.
When Nathan got home, she recounted the day. He listened quietly, barely responding.
“Well?” she asked, craving support.
“Maybe you were too tough on them,” he
