y Dad always hated my Mom’s painting obsession, believing she was only fit to cook and clean. After their divorce, I stepped into her new home and discovered something that took my breath away. I never thought I’d be grateful for my parents’ divorce, but life has a way of surprising you. I’m Iva, 25 years old. What I found in my Mom’s new home after the split completely changed my perspective on what true love really looks like and it made me cry… Growing up, our house was filled with the smell of oil paints and the sweet scent of turpentine. My Mom, Florence, would always create something beautiful. But for my Dad, Benjamin, it was just noise and mess.“Florence! When are you gonna be done with that damn painting?”

Dad’s voice would boom from the kitchen. “This place is a pigsty, and dinner’s not even started!” Mom’s shoulders would tense, but her brush wouldn’t stop moving. “Just a few more minutes, Ben. I’m almost finished with this section.”Dad would stomp into her workspace, his face red. “You and your silly hobby! When are you gonna grow up and act like a REAL WIFE?”I’d watch from the doorway, my heart pounding. Mom’s eyes would meet mine, filled with a sadness I couldn’t comprehend as a ten-year-old. “Iva, honey, why don’t you go set the table?” she’d say softly. I’d nod and scurry away, the sound of their argument following me down the hall. Years passed, and the arguments only got worse. When I was fourteen, they finally called it quits. Dad got custody, and I only saw Mom on weekends.