Chapter 4 - THE CUSTODY THREAT
The legal notice arrived in a thick, cream-colored envelope on a rainy Tuesday.
Leo Hale, a man known more for his gambling debts in Monaco than his business acumen, officially filed a petition for temporary custody of Lily Hale. The grounds? “Emotional neglect and an unsuitable domestic environment.”
Clara was furious. She scrubbed a counter that was already spotless, channeling her rage into the marble. Marcus walked in, his suit jacket slung over one shoulder, looking completely drained.
"They have a hearing set for next month," Marcus announced, leaning against the island.
Clara tossed her cloth down. "How can they even claim neglect? She is surrounded by love. She has the best doctors, the best food, a safe home!"
"They are going to attack you, Clara," Marcus warned softly. "They are going to dig into your past. Your finances. Your family."
Clara’s heart dropped to her stomach. Her sister, Elena. The crushing medical debt. The money she wired to Orlando every two weeks just to keep the collection agencies at bay.
"I have nothing to hide," Clara lied, her voice trembling slightly. "Except that I am poor. Is that a crime in their world?"
May you like
Marcus reached out, his hand hovering over hers for a fraction of a second before pulling back. "In their world? Yes. But not in mine. I will protect you."
---
