I listened, apologized, and explained the work would still get done—just not at the expense of my daughter.

Owen offered to help with invoices and dispatching.

One of my employees, Luis, took over site visits for several weeks.

A client who heard something had happened asked if she should find another contractor.

I told her that would be her choice.

“I’d rather be a father who loses a contract,” I said, “than a father who misses another warning.”

The woman was quiet.