“You’re looking into me. I don’t like that, Aaron. It’s invasive and insulting and ultimately will be destructive. I’ll tell you now, I’d like very much if we can move beyond what’s happened between us to build a relationship that’s considerate of each other in order to provide a healthy upbringing for our son. That’s what I’d like.”

I took in a quick breath and before he could say anything—because I had a lot to say he needed to hear—I continued.

“Until I can get on my feet in order to take care of Travis financially, I’d also like your financial assistance. It won’t be decades. It’ll be until I can get an education to build a career where I can make more money. And further, while he’s still so very young, I’d like for him to have a more stable home life rather than being passed back and forth every week. And as his mother, I believe that time should be spent with me. In order to give him time to do something crucial in his life, bond with his father, I’m willing to give you days, evenings, et cetera, with your son so you can continue to do that. That’s what I want from you. All I want from you.”

I drew in another swift breath and launched right back in.

“What I don’t want is to fight with you. I don’t want Travis to grow up with two parents who hate each other, who are always battling and bickering. That would not be good for our son. As he grows, as I get on my feet, I’ll be less dependent on your financial assistance and he’ll need more time with his father. If we can get to a place where we can make these decisions and instigate these changes when they’re needed without tearing into each other, Travis will benefit. But I’ll say, if you fight me, I’ll fight back. And if you fight me, Aaron, it will tell me precisely how you feel, not only about me, but about your duties as father to our son.”

I pulled in more breath and finished, giving it to him completely in the hopes that for once in his life he’d care what I had to say and listen to me.