I worked two jobs to help fulfill my husband’s dream of becoming a doctor — at his graduation, he handed me divorce papers, but just as I was walking away, one of his classmates said, “Before you leave, there’s something you should know.”

I think they’ll move.”

They moved on Wednesday.

Nathan’s lawyer sent a proposed settlement.

Ruth went through it line by line with me on a call that lasted two hours.

The initial offer was inadequate — it acknowledged the joint account withdrawals but valued them at less than half the documented total and made no provision for the years of tuition support.

“Reject it,” I said.

“Already drafted the response,” Ruth said.

The counter went back Thursday morning.

By Thursday afternoon, Nathan’s lawyer called again.

Ruth took the call and reported back.

“He wants a meeting,” she said.

“Nathan specifically.

He wants to meet with you directly, without lawyers.”

“No.”

“That’s what I told them.”

“Good.”

Friday brought a second proposal.

Better, but still short on the tuition contribution calculation.

Ruth and I went through it again.

“They’re getting closer,” she said.

“I think one more counter does it.”