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Veronica hesitates for a moment before replying. "Well, actually there is. I know we've had our differences in the past, but I was hoping we could put that aside and work together for the sake of our daughter."
I let out an exasperated sigh, "What do you want, Veronica?"
"I think it's time we sit down and have a discussion about custody arrangements. I want more time with Emily, and I think we can come up with a schedule that works for both of us."
My blood starts to boil. I can't believe she's bringing up custody now, right before I'm supposed to meet Olivia's father.
"Veronica, we have a custody arrangement in place, and it's been working fine for both of us," I say through gritted teeth. "What's changed?"
"It's just that I've been thinking, and I really think it's in Emily's best interest to spend more time with me," she says in a sickly sweet voice that grates on my nerves. "I'm sure you can see that too."
"Have you stopped drinking?" I ask. "Or lost your mind? The judge would never grant you custody."
"Oh, but he would," says Veronica. "Once I tell him what an abusive husband you were and how you forced me to turn to drink. And then, he'll not only give me custody but make you pay alimony too."
I take a deep breath, trying to control my anger, "So that's what you're after. Alimony?"
"Well," she says. "Honestly, I can let this all go to rest for a little bit of cash upfront. You can keep Emily too. I love her, but she loves you more. What can I say, that little brat."
I'm about to tell Veronica where to shove her offer when I glance at the time on my phone. It's past the time I am supposed to meet Olivia's father. Also, with a woman as cunning as Veronica, it is best to have a lawyer on board.
But, I need to know.
"How much?"
"A million bucks."
Rage. Pure unadulterated rage. "You sick woman. You're using your child to make some cash off of me?"
Veronica laughs, "I knew that would get a reaction out of you. But in all seriousness, Adrian, think about it. You can keep Emily, and I can start over. It's a win-win situation."
I shake my head in disgust, "No, Veronica. It's not a win-win situation. It's extortion. And if you think for one second that I would pay you a single cent to keep my own daughter, then you're more delusional than I thought."
Veronica's tone turns from sweet to venomous. "Fine, Adrian. I tried to be civil, but I guess I'll have to go the legal route. You'll regret this."
As I hang up the phone, I feel a weight lift off my shoulders. I'll deal with Veronica later. Right now, I have a dinner to attend and a father to impress. I take a deep breath and make my way to the house.
CHAPTER 21
OLIVIA
Iamsonervousthat I can't stop pacing up and down the kitchen. The lasagna is in the oven, and I know I should go and do something - anything - but I can't seem to stop staring at the timer.
I'm already dressed and checking my watch over and over again. My dad is upstairs, getting ready as we speak. Adrian should be here at my father’s house in half an hour.
I'm a wreck.
My dad comes into the kitchen.
"So," he says, gruffly. "What time is he coming?"
"At seven, Dad, like we discussed," I say.
"A gentleman is usually early," he says, critically.
"No, a gentleman is on time," I defend Adrian.
"How old did you say he was again?"
