I packed a small overnight bag for Fiona and kept it where I could reach it.

I told myself I was being paranoid, that I would probably never need any of it.

But some clear-eyed part of me had seen the day coming, and had prepared for it, quietly, the way you keep a fire extinguisher you hope never to use.

And then, at a birthday banquet, in front of an entire room, my husband made the exact choice I had prepared for — and because I had prepared, I did not have to spend that night in shock.

I had only to execute a plan I had already made.