“They can offer settlement terms,” she said.

“You do not have to accept them.

And this document cannot take away your legal responsibility to report concerns about a child’s safety.”

I refused the payment.

I answered only through counsel, stating that I would continue to cooperate with the professionals involved.

Desmond was furious when he learned about the offer.

He wanted to confront Vivian immediately.

Naomi advised restraint; anger would satisfy him for a minute and create records that the other side could exploit for months.