That was not forgiveness, and I did not intend it as a reward for an apology.

A settlement had to be something people could carry out.

Her legitimate interests and reasonable needs could be recognized without approving what she knew about Julian’s objection.

The expense records were examined in separate categories.

Some investigation and preservation costs would be assessed under the terms the parties accepted.

Others belonged to private financial questions between Claire and me.

The $900 hall reservation and $680 cake deposit were documented losses, not automatic liens on Julian’s property.

Any agreed treatment of them had to be stated expressly, rather than hidden in a single total.