‘I know,’ he said.

We finished the meeting without resolving everything.

Later I sat on the porch while Richard brought me tea.

He did not attempt to explain his choice again.

We watched the afternoon fade over the fields.

Finally I said, ‘I don’t know yet what to do with all of this.’

‘You don’t have to know today.’

My father, meanwhile, had sent Maren a letter warning that my accusations could damage the family business.