“A chance isn’t a Christmas performance,” I said.

“It isn’t a photograph and a handshake.

If contact is appropriate, it will have to happen carefully, with their welfare first.

They may need time, they may want questions answered, and they may not want to see you yet.”

“I’m their father.”

“Biologically, yes.

Now you have to decide whether you’re willing to do the work of behaving like one.”

He looked stung.