“Because I kept believing that if I found the right explanation, I would not have to see myself clearly.”

I watched the swings. “Did losing the allowance change that?”

“Yes.” Her honesty surprised me. “At first I was furious about the money. Then Richard made me review three years of statements. I saw how often I spent on Kendra’s family and how rarely I even remembered Lily’s needs.”

“You should not need a ledger to see a child.”

“No.” She folded her hands. “I began attending counseling.”

I looked at her. “Why?”