Later, when the house was quiet, I stood at the sink with those plates and let myself feel grateful without pretending the history was simple.

Brenda might someday build a limited, healthy connection with the girls, or she might not.

The decisions ahead required patience, careful boundaries, and respect for what the children needed at each stage.

I could not write that outcome in advance.

But I knew what I could do tomorrow.

I could help with breakfast, take them to school, and listen when they told me about their day.