AllFreeNovel
Share Us
My jaw dropped. “That’s fucking crazy. I’ve only met Amara once, in public at Scumwater with her grandmother present. The judge wouldn’t believe that bullshit story, would he?”
Tobias shrugged. “I don’t know, but I won’t risk it.”
Candace said, “That’s why I come over when you invite him to hang out with you guys, so it looks like a social call among old and new friends.”
“Because that’s what it is,” I insisted.
Tobias shook his head again. “Doesn’t matter, Zel. I’m a single, Black father in America. Whether or not we like it, whether or not it’s fair, I have to be better, cleaner, and more consistent than Maeve in every way.”
Aithan said, “Her aim is purely financial. Amara’s nothing but a means to gain alimony.”
“Shit.” The unfairness of it made me want to cry for him. “I’m really sorry.”
“Me too,” Tobias replied, “But I’ll do whatever I have to, sacrifice whatever I have to, to give my daughter the best life I can.”
Standing opposite Tobias, Drew said, “Man, you’re about ten million times better a dad than mine ever was.”
“Thanks,” Tobias replied. “I’m following a good example.” He elbowed Candace. “Our dad’s an awesome guy.”
Drew’s expression grew calculating. “If you have proof that Maeve’s had you followed and is using your daughter for financial gain, how come your attorney hasn’t gotten you full custody?”
Candace scowled. “Because he sucks.”
“He’s doing the best he can,” Tobias said.
“No, he’s not. You’re not a priority, bro. He’s more concerned about the clients with big bucks,” she retorted.
“Yeah, well, he’s been with me from the start of this mess and he’s willing to take my little bucks.”
Drew leaned back, his elbows against the counter, his attention going from Tobias to me. “Does your father know any top-notch family law attorneys, babe?”
“Yeah, his best friend is one.” I blinked. “Oh, shit, his best friend is one.”
“Got his number?” I nodded, and he said, “Give it to Tobias.”
“I don’t want to start over with a new lawyer.” Tobias shook his head. “Can’t afford to.”
Drew’s expression hardened in a way I’d never seen before. “If this firm isn’t getting your daughter away from your crazy ex, get a better lawyer.”
Candace pointed at Drew. “Thankyou. I’ve only been saying the same thing for six months.”
“Listen, I appreciate—”
Drew pushed away from the counter. “I know I’m sticking my nose up your ass on this. I know I’m white knighting and it’s none of my fucking business, but I can’t help it, Tobias. If someone had given a shit about us when I was a kid, my mom and my sister would still be alive.” He shoved his hands in his pockets, maybe to keep from hitting something. “Just … take the referral and shut Maeve down. Get full custody.Please.” His voice cracked on the last word.
I put my arm around his waist, but he didn’t meet my gaze.
Candace caught her brother’s hand. “He’s right. Your loyalty isn’t to your lawyer, especially since he’s not getting the job done.”
Tobias looked pissed, like he’d come back at Drew. “I …. Shit.” His anger collapsed. “You’re right.” He shoved his hat back. “I’m just so damned tired of this fight.”
Candace hugged him. “Which is why you need a better law firm to end it.”
Drew slipped my arm and headed for the stairs. “I’m taking a walk.”
I started to follow. “Drew?”
“Tell them what you know, Brick,” he said and trotted downstairs as Aithan caught my hand.
