We spoke about Liam.

Chloe said she had heard the adults were arranging their own conversations about what came next.

I told her I hoped someone was asking what would be best for the child, rather than what would make each adult feel vindicated.

Chloe helped me hang a new curtain in the living room.

We argued cheerfully about its length and then laughed when we realized the old curtain rod was crooked.

She left before dinner, promising to visit again as herself, not as her family’s messenger.