Page 184 of Silver Fox Puck

At the bar.

The night we met.

My stomach drops.

Because it’s not just any photo.

It’s her leaning into me, her lips close to my ear, my hand resting possessively on her thigh.

A moment that, to anyone else, looks like pure seduction.

And to a courtroom?

It looks damning.

My blood runs hot.

Because this?

This is a dirty play.

Lauren’s lawyer turns to the judge.

“Your Honor, this was taken just weeks ago. A bar in Denver. This wasn’t some long-standing romance built on stability. This was a fleeting connection that has suddenly turned into a full-fledged relationship. We have to ask—is this really a woman fit to be around a six-year-old?”

Kenzie’s breath catches.

Because she knows exactly what this looks like.

And suddenly, this case isn’t just about me anymore.

It’s about her.

The courtroom is silent.

Kenzie’s face is unreadable.

But me?

I’m furious. Not just at Lauren. Not just at her lawyer. But at the entire damn situation.

Marcus remains calm. He stands slowly, taking his time as he straightens his suit.

Then—he turns to Lauren’s lawyer.

“That’s your big reveal?” he says, voice mild. “A picture of two consenting adults in a bar?”

Lauren’s lawyer smiles like a snake.

“It shows the nature of their relationship, Your Honor. That this isn’t a stable foundation for a child to be around.”

My chest tightens.

Because Kenzie?

She’s taking the hit.

And that?