Page 183 of Silver Fox Puck

But I know—

Lauren’s not done fighting yet.

And neither am I.

Chapter 43 – Grant

Ican feel it coming.

Lauren sits stiffly, her fingers clenched so tightly on the table that her knuckles are white.

She thought she could control this.

She thought she could paint me as an absent father, a reckless parent.

She thought Kenzie would crumble under pressure.

But now? She’s cornered. And cornered people make mistakes.

Lauren’s lawyer stands.

“Your Honor, if I may, I’d like to address another concern.”

The judge exhales, clearly growing tired of the theatrics.

“Proceed.”

Lauren’s lawyer turns to me.

“The defense has argued that Mr. Maddox is fully capable of providing a stable home for Olivia. However, we have reason to believe that his lifestyle—particularly his new relationship—introduces significant risk.”

Kenzie goes rigid beside me.

My jaw clenches.

Here it comes.

Lauren’s lawyer pauses for effect.

Then—he goes for the kill.

“We have evidence that Mr. Maddox’s new relationship is not only moving too quickly, but that it could present a negative influence on Olivia.”

My hands tighten into fists.

Kenzie stiffens beside me.

But Marcus?

Marcus leans back, completely unbothered.

Lauren’s lawyer pulls out a folder.

And then?

He holds up a photo.

A photo of Kenzie and me.

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