I got laid off last month. I still leave for “work” every morning so my kids don’t find out.

It’s been 5 weeks. They think I still have my job.

Every morning, I pack my lunch, wear my uniform, and “go to work.” What I actually do is drive to a park, apply to jobs on my phone, and cry into my coffee.

We don’t have the savings to get through more than a few months. I haven’t told my wife either. She’s been so stressed with the kids’ school stuff, and her part-time job barely covers groceries. I just… couldn’t drop this on her too.

I keep thinking, “Just one more week. I’ll get something soon.” But I haven’t even gotten callbacks.

I’ve started donating plasma again. Sold a few things. I lie about picking up overtime so I can explain why we have a bit more cash one week and less the next.

The shame is eating me alive. I feel like I’m faking everything.

I know I need to tell them. I’m just trying to protect them for one more week. Maybe two. I just want to be the provider a little longer.

Even if it’s just pretend.