We talked with the professionals about gradual contact, what they observed, and what we needed to consider.

Visits developed under the arrangements approved for Leo’s care.

Over the next weeks, a regular weekend pattern emerged.

Sometimes the time was short.

Sometimes there was a little more room for an ordinary activity.

We did not jump from one successful afternoon to an announcement that he now belonged in the spare room.

He remained cared for in his approved placement while the questions about guardianship moved forward.

Denise’s care was not an obstacle to the family Simon had found.