Ethan’s mentioned the model aircraft Margaret had told him about.

Noah’s admitted that his father had been absent and had given him reasons not to trust promises.

The details mattered.

They suggested Daniel had finally listened when people told him the children were individuals rather than a single problem he hoped to settle.

But the letters were still only paper.

“Is he trying?” Olivia asked.

“I think he’s taking a step,” I answered.

“We will see whether he keeps taking them.”