David accepts a peace proposal to form an alliance, but he immediately establishes a firm boundary. Before any formal agreement can be reached, a specific demand must be met, blending personal history with sharp political strategy. David requires the return of his wife, Michal. The primary approach among commentators is that this is a strict chronological requirement; before any face-to-face meeting or negotiation can occur, Abner must bring her to him [רש״י, רד״ק, מצודת דוד]. Alternatively, some understand this demand simply as a general expectation that she will be brought as part of the arrangement [ביאור שטיינזלץ].
This requirement is a highly calculated move. David wants to ensure he is not viewed as a rebellious servant seizing power by force. By reclaiming Michal, he highlights his status as the son-in-law of the former king, granting him a legal and familial claim to the throne through Saul's lineage. Furthermore, this arrangement provides excellent diplomatic cover for Abner. Instead of appearing as a traitorous army general defecting to the enemy, Abner can present himself as a dignified envoy escorting the king's daughter back to her lawful husband under the authorization of the current leadership [מלבי״ם].
To orchestrate this safely, David appeals directly to Ish-bosheth, demanding his wife and reminding him of the bride-price he originally paid. This transparent request allows Abner to step in and advise Ish-bosheth to agree. Consequently, Abner can officially fulfill his promise to David without raising suspicion [אברבנאל].
The return of Michal brings up the question of her status during her time with Paltiel. She was never actually married to him. Instead, she was placed under his protective custody to prevent her from returning to David while ensuring her honor remained intact. Any reference to Paltiel as her husband is merely a title of respect for an important figure, not an indication of marriage. In fact, Paltiel's very name signifies that God protected him from giving in to temptation and sinning with her. Therefore, when Paltiel is later described as following her and weeping, he is not crying over the loss of a wife. Rather, he is mourning the loss of the spiritual merit he earned by successfully controlling his desires throughout their time together [אברבנאל].