Those questions were written into the practical plan instead of dismissed as distractions from it.

I learned the later details through authorized meetings about my evidence and, increasingly, from the mother herself.

She asked whether I could remain a supportive contact outside my dispatch duties.

I agreed within boundaries: I could listen and help her find the right person, but I was not her caseworker or the person deciding contact.

That distinction mattered when she asked whether accepting groceries from Derek would count as seeing him.

“Ask the county worker before arranging anything,” I said.