Noah would live primarily with me during the next phase, with structured parenting time for Julian and continued professional oversight.

Neither parent nor Eleanor was to discuss the evidence with Noah, and the court would review progress before entering any final arrangement.

Julian’s face tightened, but he said nothing.

I had expected a moment of triumph.

What I got was a list of practical instructions and a child who needed dinner.

I took Noah to a diner afterward.

He ordered pancakes shaped like a bear and asked whether he could see Daddy on Saturday.

“That is what we are working on,” I told him.