Richard had promised to put the shoes, remaining medicine supplies, and preschool papers together.

Lily wanted to see her father.

Maya did not yet have a written parenting schedule, and the child had been asking why her toys were still in the old bedroom.

She brought her for the brief visit, aware afterward that she had expected too much of Richard’s promise to keep the morning practical.

He had made toast.

Lily sat at the kitchen table while Maya checked the bag he had prepared.

Olivia was there too, folding a napkin beside the coffee pot.