Just money.
I swallow hard.
“And when Summer left with Mia,” his attorney continues,“were you aware of where they were?”
Kevin’s jaw tightens in a perfect imitation of pain.“No. I was blindsided.”
I clench my hands until my nails bite crescents into my palms.
My lawyer rises sharply.“Objection, Your Honor. I have copies of seven text messages and two voicemails sent by myclient containing her address, phone number, and an open invitation for Mr. Masters to call or visit Mia at any time.”
The attorney freezes.
Kevin stiffens.
Judge Hale lifts one brow.“We’ll admit those.”
My heart beats faster. Hope, small and trembling, presses at the edges of my fear.
But then his attorney pivots.
“Let’s talk about Summer leaving the marital home.”
My whole body goes rigid.
“Is it true,” she asks Kevin,“that Summer left you abruptly and without warning?”
“Yes.” His voice cracks convincingly.“One day she was gone. She took my daughter, emptied the closets, and disappeared with some cowboy.”
My stomach drops.
A low rumble sounds behind me, several of them.
I glance back. Ethan’s eyes are locked on Kevin, murderous.
“Motherfucker needs a lesson,” Dex growls under his breath, quiet enough that only those closest hear.
Cas shoots him a sharp glare.“Summer needs us to stay calm right now,” he mutters.
Whispers ripple through the courtroom.
“And how did that make you feel?” Kevin’s attorney asks.
“Hurt.” His voice goes soft, trembling.“Betrayed. I had no idea she was… involved with someone else.”
My mouth falls open.
“I’ll show him what real pain feels like,” Dex mutters again.
This time I hear Lily hiss,“Dexter Hawthorne, you shut that mouth right now. Remember who’s watching.”
Ethan’s hand comes to my shoulder, and the way he squeezes anchors me to the earth.
My attorney looks ready to object, but the judge raises a hand.“We’ll get to that.”
Great. Another seed of doubt planted.
My attorney stands and approaches Kevin with slow, deliberate steps.“Mr. Masters, what is it you miss the most about Mia?”
