Gradually, Lily’s stories changed. The little girl found someone who helped her. Then her mother arrived. Eventually the grandmother doll disappeared from the story entirely.

I never encouraged Lily to bring it back.

My mother began sending gifts. I returned each one unopened. She mailed letters admitting she had made a mistake while also reminding me that children were difficult to supervise.

I kept the letters but did not answer them. An apology followed by a defense is often only a request to restore the relationship without repairing the damage.

Kendra called from time to time. At first our conversations stayed practical. She asked how Lily was doing. I answered briefly. Then one afternoon she came to my house alone, carrying a small box.

I met her outside.