leaving, Julian announced that he would hire one of the toughest custody attorneys in the city.
Over the following two weeks, he began giving the twins expensive presents during his court-approved weekend visits. New tablet computers, designer clothing, and an enormous electric ride-on toy car. He told Mateo that he could keep the car permanently at his house if he told the judge he wanted to stay with Daddy.
Following my attorney’s advice, I didn’t interfere with his visitation while the temporary court orders were still being considered.
I questioned that decision on the Sunday evening before our emergency court hearing.
Julian brought the children home at dusk. Mateo rushed inside and immediately wrapped both arms around my legs, pressing his face into my skirt. Sophia followed slowly behind him, quietly crying.
“What happened, sweetheart?” I asked, kneeling beside her.
Julian leaned against the doorway, glancing at
