I was doing it right then.

Later, after he slept, I noticed a message on my phone from an unknown number.

It contained a photograph of our front door and six words: You should have taken the offer.

PART 11

The offer had arrived a week before the first hearing.

Julian’s attorney sent a proposed settlement in which I would leave the house, receive a modest monthly payment for two years, and agree that Julian should make major decisions for Noah.

In exchange, Julian would not pursue what the letter called “further concerns regarding maternal fitness.” It was written to look generous.