Page 182 of Silver Fox Puck

I sit still, waiting. I can feel Lauren’s eyes on me.

Can sense the calculation behind them.

And I know—

Lauren isn’t finished.

Not yet.

Lauren’s lawyer paces slowly.

“So, Ms. Williams, you’re saying you’re not a parental figure in Olivia’s life?”

I nod once.

“That’s right.”

“And yet, you have been spending time with her?”

I meet his gaze directly.

“Yes.”

The lawyer smiles like he’s caught me in something.

“Interesting.”

He turns toward the judge.

“Your Honor, we have reason to believe this relationship is moving too fast. That introducing Ms. Williams into Olivia’s life could create instability and confusion for the child.”

Grant stiffens beside Marcus.

I hold my ground.

And then—

Marcus stands.

“Objection, Your Honor,” Marcus says, his voice even. “This line of questioning is irrelevant. Ms. Williams is not seeking a legal role in Olivia’s life. She is simply a supportive presence. If spending time with a significant other is grounds for an unfit parent ruling, then I’d love to know how many custody cases would be filed tomorrow.”

The judge raises a brow.

Lauren’s lawyer shuts his mouth.

My pulse thunders in my ears.

The judge nods, then looks at Lauren’s side.

“I’ve heard enough on this topic. Let’s move on.”

Lauren stiffens.

I exhale slowly.

Because I won.

We won.

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