Every so often the tower fell, and he rebuilt it without complaint.

“You used to get so upset when those fell,” she said.

“I’m older now,” he replied solemnly.

“And you can always try again.” I looked at my wife.

She smiled, but her eyes were bright.

The legal process would not restore the lost months.

It might establish responsibility and consequences.

At home, though, restoration was occurring in smaller ways.