They have routines, friends, a father-shaped absence they’ve learned to live with.

I won’t let you burst into their lives because a photograph frightened you.”

I looked at the drawing above the desk.

“What do they know about me?”

“That their biological father and I once loved each other.

That he wasn’t ready to be part of our family.

I’ve never called you a monster.

I have also never lied and said you were coming.”