Chloe would remain in her familiar home and school environment, while Camilla’s time with her would increase in ways that could be reviewed as they went.

No one called it a victory over another parent.

There were difficult days.

Once Chloe cried after Camilla left because she was suddenly afraid Camilla might never return.

Another afternoon she refused to come downstairs for a visit, then emerged half an hour later to ask if they could bake cookies.

Camilla learned to accept both reactions without pleading or taking them personally.

I learned not to rush in and fix every feeling with a promise no adult could guarantee.