Chapter 23 - Julian’s Unsupervised Hour
At eleven, Elise asked family court therapist if she could have one unsupervised lunch with Julian.
I hated it.
Supported assessment.
Julian had years of compliant supervised contact.
No substance issues.
No threats.
No manipulation.
No contact with Victoria or Adrian.
Stable job.
Therapy.
Court approved a limited unsupervised daytime visit.
I sat in nearby café pretending not to stare at clock.
They returned on time.
Elise carried a book.
“How was it?”
“Fine.”
“What did you do?”
“Burger. Bookstore.”
“That’s all?”
“Mom.”
Right.
She went upstairs.
Julian stood at door.
“Thank you.”
“Don’t thank me. She asked.”
He nodded.
Then:
“I know.”
That was why it worked.
May you like
He finally understood access to another person is not a prize adults award each other.
It belonged first to safety and to Elise’s needs.
