We also made clear that the loan was separate from birthday dinners, holiday visits, and the children’s relationship with me.

Daniel said he wanted to rebuild trust.

I told him the fastest way was not a speech or a bouquet of flowers.

It was following through on the commitments he chose.

He sold the extra vehicle and reduced several business expenses.

Claire took on a larger share of their household budgeting, though she still sounded irritated whenever Daniel mentioned the lifestyle changes.

They decided to keep the children in their school through the current term while reviewing what they could afford next year.