Calling the Lawyer
I inhaled deeply, swallowing bitterness. Action was imperative. Crossing to the landline, fingers trembling with cold fury, I dialed—Catherine Miller, a top divorce attorney and trusted friend. "Catherine," my voice steadied unexpectedly. "It’s Jennifer. I need an urgent meeting. Regarding divorce... a falsified medical report... an abandoned child." A pause, then Catherine’s crisp reply: "One hour. My office."
Pledging Support
Hanging up, I turned to Susan and Lucas, still rigid by the door. The boy sniffled. Approaching cautiously, I met Susan’s exhausted eyes—her pallor, dark circles, Lucas’s helpless tears—aching inside. A mother deceived, abandoned, struggling solo for three years. My voice rasped, but I forced clarity: "Susan, listen. Mark will pay every cent owed to Lucas. I’ve contacted my lawyer. She’ll handle the divorce and secure your rights. Legal steps take time, but until then..."
A New Beginning
I paused. "This afternoon, I’ll transfer funds—enough to sustain you temporarily. It’s owed to you." Susan stared, disbelief warring with guarded hope. Her icy shell fractured, revealing exhaustion and fragile relief. Lips quivering, she nodded faintly, tears spilling silently. Lucas, sensing her shift, quieted to hiccups, peering at me shyly.
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