A night in Paris

Child custody 2

“Your honor those are just fabricated lies to tarnish the image of my client" Avia's lawyer defended

“Well I must say this is quite a splitting image of your client lawyer Fredrick" the judge pointed out and passed the evidence to Fredrick

He sighed and readjusted his coat, “your honor that video clearly shows not only my client but Mr Ethan as well,” he turned to look at Ethan mockingly," you made that video right?”

" Yes I did-” Ethan responded

" Then clearly you were taking those substances as well. From the look of that environment, that is the balcony of your house so clearly you made that video”.

Murmuring filled the court. " Your honor, my client isn't denying the fact that she's not 100 percent fit to cater for the child and that's why she's got a partner,” he turned to me and I looked around the courtroom to see if Andre later showed up but he didn't.

“And where is this fiancé of yours Miss Avia?” The judge lowered her glass and gave Avia a look which screamed don't waste my time. Feeling helpless and wanting to give up I got up from my seat, my legs shaking. “He’s not-”

"Here yet cause he was running late at work” Andre walked into the court in an expensive looking black fitted suit. His muffin brown hair slicked back. He signature cologne feeling the courtroom.

“Sorry I'm late mama," he looked into my eyes and gave me a warm reassuring smile before kissing my forehead. I could see Ethan's face grow into an old soar pudding.

“Your honor, this is Andre Carmel. My client's fiancé”. My lawyer said proudly happy that he wasn't disgraced right now in front of everyone. The court went mute as Andre introduced himself

After so many delegations the Judge proceeded to make her final judgment. “With the evidence brought here by plaintiff and the appeal made by the defendant, here is my judgment”

Silence covered the entire courtroom. I crushed Andre's hand underneath the table and tapped my foot anxiously as we awaited the judge's judgment.

“After careful consideration of all the evidence presented, and the best interests of the child involved, I have come to a decision in regards to the custody of Damian.

As the court, it is our duty to ensure that the welfare of the child is the primary aspect of our deliberations. Today, the court has heard evidence reflecting the capabilities and commitment of the defendant, Avia Hart. Throughout this process, it has been evident that Avia Hart has consistently prioritized Damian's needs, demonstrating both emotional and financial support in ways she can despite the way she was treated by her ex partner.

I have also assessed the close bond that Damian shares with Avia Hart. In reviewing the testimony provided, it is clear that this relationship is built on love and trust. Damian has expressed a clear desire to remain with Avia Hart, which aligns with this court's duty to consider the child's wishes when appropriate.

While I acknowledge that the other party, Ethan Reed, has their contributions and love for Damian, the court must ultimately focus on what arrangement will best serve Damian's long-term interests and emotional well-being. It is important for the child to grow up in an environment that is safe, stable and filled with love. Therefore, it is in the best interests of Damiam that I grant full custody to Avia Hart,” my heart leaped for Joy as I dropped to my knees crying. Andre helped me back up to my seat while gently rubbing my back

“Allowing them the opportunity to continue catering and raising Damian. This decision comes with the expectation that both parties will work together to ensure the child maintains a meaningful relationship with Ethan Reed, creating a sustainable co-parenting relationship that supports Damian's holistic development” the judge went on to make necessary arrangements for handing over Damian to me full time

After the court session I told Andre I would love to spend some time with Damian and Ronnie and he let me. I drove to Ronnie's with Damian. I spoke to her about holding onto Damian for me till I was able to have Andre around him and she agreed. Best help of the year award goes to her for sure.

* * *

“I'm so glad you could meet up with me tonight Avia," Andre caressed my palm with both his hands looking into my soft brown eyes as he passed the menu, " whatever you order I'll order mi vida”

I gave a small laughed then pushed the menu to him," you order. I'll go with whatever you choose” I had just paid him about two hours ago for earlier today it'll be bad of me to make him spend all that tonight. I still did not understand why he chose the most expensive restaurant in the city for us to celebrate the court victory." Why here of all places though?” I was curious

" It's a special night and I wanted to celebrate you properly” he began,

“Well I'm not paying for anything here let me just put that out there now” I only joked. No way I was going to let him cover the bills tonight alone. He needed the savings more than I did

“ Very funny Avia, I'm not asking you to pay for anything. You paid me enough today for me to treat you to my best ability tonight” he said with his eyes not leaving mine

" Okay. Don't forget to save kiddo” I teased him some more. The waiter came and I noticed something. The waiter gave Andre a surprised look when he got to our table which was quite suspicious and Andre seemed to shut him up before he had the chance to say anything further. I was curious about that but didn't push it. He took down our orders and left to get our food

“ I feel honored doing this with you Avia” he paused then leaned back into his seat, " But there's one thing I'd love to know, what exactly happened?”

He was treading on dangerous waters here and he knew that because he paused to check if he would be granted permission to continue.

“If you don't mind I actually want the details not the small talks”

" Okay” I said with no expression. No way I was going to get all emotional in front of thi

s man.

“What exactly happened between you and Ethan?”