Instead, we made calendars with pictures, kept appointments, and gave Chloe the simple comfort of seeing that people did what they said they would do.

Brooke’s girls became part of that rhythm.

Paisley and Harper came for sleepovers, and the three of them held elaborate tea parties where Bunny was regularly accused of stealing biscuits.

Brooke started a small holiday tradition of her own: every child chose one activity, and no one had to earn a gift or a seat at the table.

When Chloe spilled juice during the first gathering, she froze.

Brooke quietly handed her a towel and said, “Accidents happen.