I also sent Daniel a short message: Emma called; I told her we had an adult disagreement, assured her both children were loved, and did not discuss finances.

I asked to arrange a visit.

He did not answer.

Still, I slept a little better that night.

There was a bridge between me and my grandchildren, and neither side had burned it completely.

PART 10

When I met Teresa Park, I brought a folder thick enough to make her raise her eyebrows.

She spread my statements across a conference table and began separating pension income, savings, investments, living expenses, gifts, and loans.