Neither parent would use visits to force a discussion of the marriage.

We would keep paying necessary obligations while financial details were reviewed.

When the conversation reached Agnes, Lucas stiffened.

“She loves her granddaughter.”

“Love doesn’t cancel out safety,” I said.

“I need to know our daughter won’t grow up believing she owes obedience to anyone who raises their voice.”

He started to object, then looked at the table.

“I know.”