It would have been tempting to count it as a success.

I presented it instead as evidence that our new system was being tested.

Promises become real only when they are inconvenient.

The lesson applied to companies and marriages alike.

PART 26: A Different Kind of Dinner

In the winter, Helen invited me to a small birthday dinner at her house.

Connor would not be there.

She told me that before I accepted, allowing me to decide without awkward surprises.