“Grandma, why don’t you live with us anymore?” Jack asked.

Margaret stroked his hair. “Because sometimes adults need to learn to take care of themselves too.”

Emily looked around the living room. “Your house is pretty.”

Margaret smiled. “Thank you. Everything here is peaceful.”

Daniel listened from the doorway. He did not ask for money. He did not complain. He did not enter without permission.

It was a small beginning, but a real one.