There were several hours before pickup.

I used them to answer the records requests I could answer, not to sit in the parking lot imagining every possible conversation Emily might have.

Protecting her required preparation.

It also required allowing an ordinary school day to happen when the arrangements were in place.

PART 5 — What Walter Had Written

Richard sent a dress through his attorney.

It arrived wrapped in tissue with the store tag still attached.

The card said he was sorry about the birthday and wanted Emily to have something special.