For the first time, the possibility of a settlement became connected to something I could imagine without feeling I was buying a new life from the loss of the old one.

“A foundation,” I said.

It was only a word then.

I did not mistake the word for a completed organization.

I took it to David, who asked what work I wanted it to do and whether I wanted advice before promising any funds.

“Yes,” I said.

That was the first useful answer I gave about the money.

PART 5 — Four Fifteen on a Friday