As a single parent since my kids were infants, I never imagined still being single when they reached their teenage years. Despite casual dating, no one seemed worth integrating into our lives. Seth came close, but doubts lingered during our dates. When my 13-year-old son expressed his reluctance for anyone new to join our family, it struck a chord. I realized I didn’t want the delicate balance we’d achieved to be disrupted. My daughter’s cancer diagnosis and subsequent remission emphasized the importance of stability for us. Reflecting on my own teenage years, marked by my parents’ dating, reinforced my decision to prioritize my kids’ needs over romantic pursuits. Despite well-meaning concerns from friends, I’m content with the idea of aging without a partner. For now, the risks of dating outweigh the benefits, and I won’t introduce anyone new into our lives until my kids are older. Seth understood, and we parted on good terms.
