Chapter 13 - Daniel’s Contact With Lily Became Structured
Claire did not try to erase Daniel as Lily’s father.
But she refused immediate normalcy.
Family court evaluations focused on safety, judgment, and whether Daniel could maintain boundaries with Margaret.
At first, visits were structured.
Margaret was not allowed present.
Daniel had to complete parenting education and individual therapy.
He also agreed in writing:
No withholding food as punishment.
No forced fasting.
No discussing adult financial conflict with Lily.
No delegating discipline to Margaret.
Progress was slow.
During one supervised lunch, Lily left half a sandwich unfinished.
Daniel stared at it.
Claire later learned he had almost said:
“Finish everything.”
Then stopped.
The monitor noted that he asked instead:
“Are you full?”
Lily nodded.
He threw the rest away.
Tiny moment.
May you like
Huge difference.
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