There it was.

I did not understand how dangerous my avoidance had become. That does not excuse it.

I cried.

Not because I wanted him back.

Because for once, he had stopped editing himself.

PART 50 — I DO NOT REPLY WITH FORGIVENESS

I wrote:

I received this. Please continue doing the work required for Chloe’s safety.

That was all.

Christopher later complained through his attorney that my response was cold.