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I shake my head, the full weight of my situation pressing down on me. “You heard my whole sob story. I have nothing—no money, no resources. And my dad refuses to get involved at all.” My voice cracks slightly despite my efforts to stay composed.
Henrik gives me another reassuring wink. “I’ve got a bunch of lawyers on retainer who can help. It’s all about strategy.”
I huff impatiently. “But as I keep saying . . . I can’t afford high-powered lawyers.”
“I’m happy to foot the bill on this,” Henrik clarifies. “Consider it a favor for an old family friend.”
I stare at him in bewilderment. “A favor? Henrik, even if we win, I have no way of paying you back.”
He shrugs, unconcerned. “Doesn’t matter to me. You clearly would do anything for those kids, including moving all the way out here.” His lips quirk. “Maybe the three of you can make a fresh start as a little family in this unique small town.”
My throat tightens with emotion. “Why are you being so kind?” I whisper.
His expression softens. “Because it’s the right thing to do. And you deserve to have your children back, Lou-Lou.”
I rapidly blink back the tears suddenly stinging my eyes. My mug trembles between my palms. Every instinct in me wants to fling my arms around this maddening, wonderful man, but instead, I just nod in gratitude, not yet trusting my voice.
ChapterTen
Henrik: I heard from Hunter Everhart. He and Ameline are working on the case and will be hiring people to investigate your lawyer. They want to know if there’s anything that they need to know about you.
Lou: Other than I sometimes dream of smothering my ex with a pillow? Nope. As I said during yesterday’s call, everything his lawyer said about me were lies. Do I drink wine? Yes, with every other meal. I’m not in college anymore, I know how to control my alcohol intake.
Henrik: They already documented that part.
Lou: Thank you so much for doing this. I really appreciate it. And though you say I don’t need to pay for it, I plan on doing so. Even if it takes me a thousand years.
Henrik: You could always pay me in different ways, you know. :wink: emoji
Lou: Excuse me?
Lou: I adore my children but I’m not having sex with you.
Henrik: I was thinking more like being my plus one at my parents’ gala or . . . there are plenty of events I will need you to accompany me.
Lou: And you can’t go on your own because . . .? :thinking-face: emoji
Henrik: I don’t like to do small talk. You’d be there to keep people away from me.
Lou: I’ve heard something about you being the hermit of the town—a grumpy hermit. I thought they were kidding, but now . . .
Henrik: That’s just a rumor.
Lou: You live on the outskirts of town.
Henrik: It’s a great location. You should check the house next door. It has plenty of space for your kids.
Lou: I haven’t thought about that part. I mean, it’s not like they’ll be here tomorrow. Is it?
Henrik: Of course not, but you need to start planning your future.
Lou: You’re right, I have to. But the house next to you is far and I don’t even have a car.
Henrik: In the meantime you can borrow one from my collection. Also, I found you another job.
Lou: Are you firing me?
Henrik: No, but there’s a company I know that will hire you to work remotely. It’s data input, but that will help you save money.
