Her first concern was not Daniel.

It was whether I had enough resources to maintain my own independence if my health changed.

“You have been treating your retirement as a reserve account for someone else’s household,” she said.

“We need to give it back its original purpose.”

She helped me build a realistic budget that included property taxes, repairs, prescriptions, insurance, and possible future care.

We discussed setting aside funds for the leak that had appeared above my laundry room, replacing aging appliances, and maintaining a cash cushion.

She advised that I consult an attorney regarding the business promissory note and any enforceable commitments.