CHAPTER 22: THE FIRST VISIT
Michael’s first scheduled visit with the girls was supervised under the temporary arrangements we had agreed while everyone adjusted. He arrived with two identical stuffed rabbits and looked terrified of holding either baby.
I showed him how Elise liked to be supported and warned him that Nora had a remarkable talent for spitting up at inconvenient moments. He listened carefully. For once, he did not act as though knowing less than I did was an insult.
I wanted to be angry every time he smiled at them. Sometimes I was. But I also wanted the girls to have adults who behaved responsibly, and that required boundaries rather than revenge.
We followed the parenting plan, documented changes, and used a communication app for practical matters. I did not discuss Jessica or our marriage during exchanges. When Michael tried once, I reminded him that our daughters were the subject of the visit.
