Page 186 of Silver Fox Puck

The shift.

The judge leans forward slightly, studying me.

“Mr. Maddox,” the judge says, voice measured, “are you saying that your relationship with Ms. Williams is serious?”

I don’t hesitate.

“Yes.”

Kenzie goes still.

Not because she didn’t know it. But because hearing me say it—here, in front of everyone, in front of her—makes it real.

Lauren’s lawyer clears his throat.

“Your Honor, while that’s touching, it still doesn’t negate the fact that this relationship began in a bar—”

Marcus cuts in smoothly.

“Unless you have evidence that a bar is an illegal meeting place, I don’t see the relevance.”

Lauren’s lawyer clamps his mouth shut.

Kenzie bites her lip, trying not to smile.

Marcus turns to the judge.

“This is a desperate attempt to shift focus from what actually matters—Olivia’s well-being. And what we’ve proven today is that she is not only safe with Mr. Maddox but thriving in the time she spends with him.”

The judge nods once.

Then turns to Lauren.

“Ms. Caldwell, do you have anything else to add?”

Lauren hesitates. She looks uncertain. Because she’s running out of ammo. And she knows it.

But she won’t go down without a fight. She squares her shoulders. And says the last thing anyone expects.

Lauren’s lips press into a thin line. Her eyes flash to the judge.

To Marcus.

To me.

Then—to Kenzie.

And I know—

She’s about to strike.

“I just have one question,” Lauren says, her voice smooth, too controlled.

She turns to Kenzie.

And smiles.

My muscles coil.

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