“Yes, that’s right. Paul didn’t contest our agreement during the divorce proceedings,” Chloe confirmed.
“Has there been any change in his circumstances that you’re aware of? Employment, living situation, anything that might show he’s in a better position now?”
Chloe shook her head, even though Laura couldn’t see her. “I don’t know. We haven’t been in contact since the divorce was finalized. The last I knew, he was still struggling with his gambling addiction.”
“That could help us,” Laura said thoughtfully. “Given that he relinquished custody and hasn’t been involved in Oscar’s life, any request for visitation would need to be formally addressed through the court. He can’t simply demand to see Oscar without going through the proper legal channels.”
“That’s a relief,” Chloe said softly. “But what if he takes legal action? Could he get visitation rights?”
“It’s possible,” Laura acknowledged gently. “Courts generally favor keeping both parents involved in a child’s life unless there are obvious reasons not to. However, given Paul’s history—especially if there are concerns about his ability to provide a safe and stable environment—we can present that information to argue against unsupervised visitation.”
Chloe sighed, running a hand through her hair. “I don’t want Oscar to be hurt. He’s finally settled here. And he’s happy and thriving. I don’t want Paul disrupting his life.”
“I understand,” Laura assured her. “Our priority, and the court’s, is Oscar’s well-being.”
“I don’t think Paul’s filed anything yet,” Chloe said. “Do you think I should respond to his texts?”
“It might be wise to acknowledge them, but keep it brief,” Laura advised. “You can say you’re open to discussing matters but prefer to do so through legal counsel. That sets a boundary and shows that you’re handling this responsibly.”
Chloe nodded, making a note on the pad in front of her. “Okay, that makes sense. Should I be documenting all communication with him?”
“Yes, absolutely,” Laura emphasized. “Keep records of all texts, emails, and calls. It could be important if the situation escalates.”
“All right,” Chloe agreed. “I just feel so unsettled. After all this time, why would he contact me now?”
“It’s hard to say,” Laura said sympathetically. “Sometimes people reach a point where they want to make amends, or there could be other motives. Regardless, we’ll handle whatever comes next.”
“Thanks, Laura. You don’t know how much that means to me.”
“It’s what I’m here for. In the meantime, try not to worry too much. Focus on your life with Oscar. The holidays are coming up—are you two doing anything special?”
Chloe managed a small smile. “We’re helping with the Christmas events in Sapphire Bay. Oscar’s excited about the Santa Parade.”
“That sounds wonderful,” Laura said warmly. “Keep enjoying those moments. I’ll let you know if I hear from Paul’s lawyer.”
“That’d be great. Thank you.” After she ended the call, Chloe set the phone down and slowly exhaled. It was good to know there was a legal process to protect Oscar, but the emotional turmoil was hard.
With a sigh, she picked up her phone and found the text Paul had sent her. Keeping Laura’s advice in mind, she typed:
Paul, I received your messages. If you want to discuss anything to do with Oscar, please have your lawyer contact my lawyer. Chloe.
With her heart pounding, she read the text twice before hitting send. If she knew Paul as well as she thought she did, dealing with anyone in authority would be the last thing he wanted.
CHAPTER 8
Later that night,Chloe parked outside her home. The headlights of her truck swept over the familiar outline of the other cottages on Anchor Lane. Oscar was already nodding off in the back seat, still wearing his costume from the school’s dress rehearsal. She smiled to herself as she remembered how excited he’d been. How much he’d enjoyed being one of Santa’s elves.
Even though the opening night of the school play was a couple of months away, no one was leaving anything to chance. With everyone getting ready for a busy part of the year, making sure the costumes and props were ready was one last thing the teachers and parent helpers would have to think about.
“Hey, buddy,” Chloe whispered as she gently unbuckled his seatbelt. “We’re home.”
Oscar rubbed his eyes sleepily. “Did you like our Christmas play?”
“I loved it,” she said, lifting him out of the truck. “You were the best elf I’ve ever seen.”
He grinned drowsily. “Liam said he’d come to the real show.”
“I’m sure he wouldn’t miss it.” With Oscar’s arms draped around her shoulders and his head nestled against her neck, Chloe carried him inside.
