Callum would begin with supervised visits in familiar surroundings.

He would not make promises about future outings until plans were agreed and predictable.

There were also financial obligations.

Support would be calculated through the proper process, separate from whatever Callum hoped our personal relationship might become.

My children were not required to perform gratitude because their father finally acknowledged them.

When the specialist asked how I wanted to describe Callum, I said, “Truthfully, but gently.

He’s their biological father.