For the first time, the next step sounded like a question rather than a verdict about whether I was a good person.

Nora left after we agreed how contact would be handled.

She would not use her position to bypass Leo’s caseworker or make a personal promise Simon had asked for determine an official decision.

I put the letter in its envelope.

The photograph stayed on the table a little longer.

Then I went to check on Sadie.

She had kicked off part of her blanket and was sleeping with a toy dinosaur near her face.

I moved it gently and pulled the covering back over her legs.