The name on Lily’s birth records was dealt with through the lawful process, too.

Hannah chose the family surname she shared with me, and the appropriate paperwork amended the certificate.

Changing the baby’s surname did not magically erase parentage or decide every possible family-law question.

Those were matters for counsel and the courts where needed.

What the paperwork did accomplish was important enough: the name Hannah wanted her daughter to carry was legally recorded.

She brought the certificate home in a folder and placed it on the kitchen table.