The boys’ first visit with Tristan took place in January, in a family counseling center where we had arranged a neutral meeting room.

Their counselor, Dr.

Keene, had spoken with them separately beforehand and helped each boy decide what he wanted to say.

They chose a sixty-minute visit.

I stayed in the adjoining room, close enough to be called if anyone became uncomfortable.

Tristan arrived ten minutes early.

He wore a plain sweater and carried nothing except a small notebook.

When the boys entered, he stood and waited rather than reaching for hugs.