Page 104 of Falling for Love

Resting my head against his chest, he embraced me firmly, and I just breathed.

“I’m sorry,” I whispered, my voice muffled against his coat. “I’m just... overwhelmed.”

“You don’t have to apologize,” he said, his voice low and soothing. “I’ve got you.”

I closed my eyes, breathing in the faint scent of cedar and coffee that clung to him. For the first time in what felt like forever, I didn’t feel like I was carrying everything alone.

We stayed like that for a while. His hands moved gently over my back, not pushing or prying, just being there.

When I finally pulled back, his hands stayed on my arms, his thumbs brushing lightly against my sleeves.

His gaze met mine. “Do you want to talk about it?”

“Not yet. I just... thank you for being here.”

“Always,” he said simply, like it wasn’t even a question.

The lump in my throat returned, but this time, it wasn’t fear or anxiety—it was gratitude. Pure, unfiltered gratitude for this man who had walked into my life and offered me something I hadn’t dared to hope for… the chance to not be alone in all of this.

“Hot chocolate?”

I laughed softly, the sound surprising even me. “Yeah. That sounds perfect.”

We moved to the counter, and as he poured the steaming liquid into two mugs, I realized I truly didn’t have to figure this all out right now.

For this moment, I could just breathe. And that was enough.

The shrill ringtone of my phone startled me, and I nearly dropped my hot chocolate.

“You did need this,” Liam teased, handing me my phone from the counter.

The name of my attorney, Michael Harrington, lit up the screen. My heart leaped into my throat as I hit the speakerphone button, my hands trembling slightly.

“Hello?”

“Hi, Evie. It’s Michael.” The calm and professional voice came over the phone. “I’m sorry it took me a while to reply. I was reviewing the documents you sent over.”

“It’s okay,” I managed, though it wasn’t okay. The waiting had been torture.

Liam stood beside me, his arms crossed. His expression was a mix of concern and quiet determination. He caught my eye and gave me a reassuring nod.

Michael continued, “I’ve gone through everything, and unfortunately, your ex does have a legal basis to make this claim. Even though he’s been absent from Hayden’s life until now, he’s the biological father, and that alone gives him certain rights.”

The words hit me like a punch to the gut. I felt my knees weaken, and I gripped the counter for support.

Liam stepped closer, his hand brushing against mine.

Michael’s voice softened. “That doesn’t mean he’ll win, Evie. His history of absence works strongly in your favor. Courts tend to prioritize what’s in the best interest of the child, and it’s clear you’ve provided a stable, loving home for Hayden. But...” He hesitated, and I held my breath.

“But?” I prompted, my voice barely above a whisper.

“But family court is unpredictable,” Michael admitted. “There are no absolutes. It will take time and resources to fight this. I’ll start drafting a response immediately and gather all the evidence we need to present a strong case. We’ll make it clear that Hayden’s well-being is best served staying with you.”

I nodded, even though he couldn’t see me.

“Thank you,” I murmured, my throat tight.

“I know this is overwhelming,” Michael added. “But try to focus on what’s in your control right now. We’ll take it step by step.”

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