Jared sat with Asher, helping him with a school project. Asher's bright laugh bubbled up, filling the room with a warmth that felt fragile yet precious. It was moments like these that reminded me why I had to fight so hard.
But even their laughter couldn't quiet the storm raging inside me. Today, I would meet the lawyer. Today, I would confront the reality I had been dreading since the day Xaden showed up on my doorstep, demanding to see Asher. Last night had been restless—my thoughts tangled in an endless loop of fear and resolve.
I couldn't let Xaden hurt Asher again. Not physically, not emotionally, and certainly not by taking him away from me.
"Are you ready?" Jared's voice pulled me back to the present. He stood in the doorway, his arms crossed loosely, but his expression betrayed his concern.
I nodded, grabbing my purse. "Yeah. I'll be back soon. Can you… keep an eye on Asher?"
