Page 46 of In this Moment

“As you know, Tony was going after full custody.”

“You said that was ridiculous.”

“It is,” Russ said slowly. “There’s no way that a father, after so many years of being absent, can expect to walk back into a child’s life and assume full custody. That would only be the case in a situation where there is neglect or perhaps death of the custodial parent.”

“Russ!”

“Clearly that’s not thecase.”

“However.” He paused and Evie knew right away she wasn’t going to like what he said next. “He has presented himself as a strong male role model and influence, and he has always made his payments on time—that will be taken into consideration. As well as his marital status and desire for a family life that includes Jonah.”

“What are you saying?” Evie hung her head, not entirely sure she wanted to hear what he was going tosay.

“I’m not confident that we’ll be able to win full custody, Evie. I’m sorry.”

His words hit her like a hammer and breath escaped her lungs entirely.

“I mean, I always did think it was a long shot,” Russ continued. “I hoped for your sake obviously, but…Evie? Did you hearme?”

She nodded and then, realizing he couldn’t see her, said, “Yes. I heard you.” The words were little more than a whisper. “I just don’t understand. I’ve been his sole provider for eight years. I’ve given him everything. I’ve done it all on my own.” A tear slipped down her cheek. “Is this because he’s married? Because I’m going to give him a family, too.” There was a pinch of pain at the lie and the knowledge that even if she thought it might turn into the truth, after overhearing Declan earlier, that hope was gone. It was just a lie. A horrible lie she was telling in a vain attempt at holding onto herson.

“It’s a consideration,” Russ said. “But, honestly, Evie, even if he wasn’t married, I’m not sure you’d have a case for full custody. Judges are really looking at the father’s involvement when they make these decisions. And it’s important, Evie. Jonah needs a father. Maybe you shouldn’t look at this as a bad thing.”

She wasn’t sure she could look at it any other way. How could it be a good thing that she was going to have to watch Jonah walk out her front door to live with a man he barely knew? It wasn’t a good thing. Not atall.

“So, marrying Declan…it wouldn’t matter?”

Russ hesitated a moment and cleared his throat before he answered. “Of course it will matter, Evie. But not in the matter of Jonah’s custody.”

“Right.” She nodded. “So that’sit?”

“I’m sorry, Evie. Obviously I’ll continue to keep discussions open with Tony’s lawyer. Sometimes things change in these cases, but as your lawyer, and your friend, I need to advise you against going to court with this. I don’t think it will be beneficial and will only cause stress for Jonah. It’s always best if both parents can remain amicable. Remember, Jonah’s needs should come first.”

“Always.” The word was barely audible.

She hung up the phone and allowed herself a moment tocry.

She’d been so naive.

Naive to think it could be just her and Jonah forever.

Naive to think she could fix everything with a littlelie.

And really naive to think that their fake relationship could turn into somethingreal.

Everything was falling apart and for once in her life, Evie didn’t know how to pull it back together.

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