The discussion was hard, and Preston left it without an easy resolution.

The next day he sent a short message apologizing for repeating an old habit.

He asked what support would actually help rather than making another proposal.

Naomi thought about it for a day.

Then she told him the boys needed dependable health coverage and a stable education fund, handled through lawful agreements.

She wanted any future school decisions made jointly according to their needs.

She also wanted him to attend the next parent-teacher event as a parent, not as a philanthropist.