Page 185 of Silver Fox Puck

I won’t allow.

I stand.

Marcus shoots me a warning glance, but I ignore it.

I look at the judge.

“Your Honor, I’d like to respond.”

The judge nods.

I turn to the lawyer, my voice calm, but sharp as steel.

“You’re right about one thing,” I say. “Kenzie and I met in that bar. But what you’re not showing is what came next.”

Kenzie watches me, breath held.

And I don’t hesitate.

“This woman?” I motion to Kenzie. “She’s the most stable part of my life.”

Lauren scoffs.

But I’m not done.

“She’s not some reckless fling. She’s not a distraction. She’s someone who makes me better. Someone who’s patient with my daughter. Someone who—despite being dragged into this mess—has done nothing but stand by my side.”

Kenzie’s eyes shine.

Lauren’s face tightens.

And the judge? Watches, assessing.

I exhale. Then deliver the final blow.

“You want to know if Olivia is safe around Kenzie?” I shake my head. “Kenzie is the safest thing that’s ever happened to me.”

The room goes silent.

Lauren’s lawyer clears his throat.

And Marcus?

Marcus smiles.

Because now?

Lauren’s last move just backfired.

The tension is suffocating.

Lauren’s lawyer shifts uncomfortably.

Marcus?

He’s practically glowing.

Because everyone in this courtroom just saw it.

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