I would not promise to pay another year.

Teresa later reviewed the documents with me, and we confirmed the appropriate amount.

I wanted to honor a real commitment without turning my remorse into an open-ended contract.

Claire was unimpressed.

She said Emma would have to leave her friends, that Oliver would become anxious, and that I clearly cared more about being right than about their wellbeing.

I suggested she and Daniel speak with the school about a payment plan or scholarship and examine alternatives.

Public schools in our area were not punishments.