Temperance

By: Shannon Lane

Narrated by: Bridget Shapiro

Olivia Clemens wants an easy life. Living as a widowed single mother in rural Pennsylvania with her young daughter, Maisie, she finds comfort in her simple, day-to-day routine. Until, one night, her estranged alcoholic father appears on her doorstep, altering life as she knows it.

Charles Collins is fresh out of rehab and seeking reconciliation with the daughter he hasn’t seen in seven years. Having never met his granddaughter, he wishes to make up for lost time, but his endeavors prove difficult as Olivia continually rebuffs his efforts.

Together, Olivia and Charles embark on a complicated journey of forgiveness, understanding, and respect, forging a bond they never thought possible. The true challenge? Sustaining the relationship, instead of falling off the wagon.

* This story may be triggering for anyone who has closely dealt with matters of addiction, particularly alcoholism. Listener discretion is advised.

©2023 Shannon Lane (P)2024 Shannon Lane