Divorce to Destiny: Reclaiming My CEO Husband

97 Fight For Abby (Winona)

The morning feels grim as I stand inside my townhouse entryway, my wrists and ankles shackled, waiting for my transportation to the Santa Monica courthouse

To be honest, I'm grateful to be going out despite the circumstances. A week of being confined and only talking either about weather and superficial stuff or things that affect me on a life-or-death level, has been exhausting. Then keeping up the pretense of Phillip and I. But we've done it and we are all going to hear what the judge has to say about where Abby is best to live for the time being. I'm more nervous about this than anything. The cold metal digs into my skin, and I feel it in my bones. Sheila Hobbs, my parole officer, stands nearby, her expression a mix of empathy and stern resolve.

stay calm."

"We'll get through this trip, Winona," she says, her voice firm but kind, "Just follow my lead and stay

I nod, trying to muster the strength to keep my emotions in check. "Thanks, Sheila. I'll do my best."

As we make our way to the transport van, the shackles clink with every step, a harsh reminder of my current reality.

The ride to Santa Monica is long and tense, and I can't help but feel waves of anxiety washing over me when I think about it too hard.

Today's court hearing is crucial. We need to convince the judge that Abby's best interests lie with me, despite the accusations against me.

Phillip and Gordon will be there, and I know Phillip is as nervous as I am. We're both wearing wires, hoping that Ashlyn will attempt to speak with one of us secretly, slip up and make a confession. The stakes have never been higher. Sheila sits beside me in the van, her presence a small comfort. "Remember, Winona, you need to stay strong. This is just another step in clearing your name and getting Abby back. Try not to overthink it."

"I know," I whisper, my voice trembling. "I just hope we can make it happen."Content is property of NôvelDrama.Org.

"Be calm and don't be afraid to show emotions. The judge will respond by seeing authenticity."

I nod and put my head back and close my eyes.

"We'll stop for food and the bathroom halfway. Here's some water and crackers for now."

I take what she's offered and then go back to trying to doze off.

We arrive at the courthouse, and I'm escorted inside, the shackles still clinking with every movement. The courtroom is already bustling with activity.

I catch sight of Phillip and Gordon near the entrance. Phillip's eyes meet mine, and he gives me a small, reassuring smile. I do feel better. He's been a real rock this week. 07 Fight For

Once inside the shackles are removed and the police security is tight at the entrances.

"When you see Ashlyn and Jayden, don't let them provoke you. You aren't on trial yet. This is a hearing for Abby's wellbeing only. Your current state of mind is important."

"No problem." My heart is hammering thinking about seeing Jayden. But I try to maintain a straight face.

As we enter the courtroom, I look downwards. This isn't open to the public but there are plenty of clicking cameras outside the door. Gordon just says "no comment" to every question. Gordon leads us to our seats, and I know Jayden and Ashlyn are sitting over there but I'm not looking at

him yet.

Phillip comes in from the back of the room and sits behind me. I glance at him and he nods. As I look away from him, I catch Jayden's eyes staring at Phillip

His look of shock tells me he wasn't expecting Phillip. Then his sharp blue gaze is locked onto me. I can see the deep hurt in his eyes. I can't care. He's already hurt me more times than I can count. He believes Ashlyn. That is all the proof I need that everything he said to me about keeping me safe is bullshit.

This is about Abby.

I

I won't even give Ashlyn the time of day with a glance. look straight forward at the bench and wait for the judge to arrive.

"Stay emotionally close to Phillip and remember our strategy," Gordon whispers to me. "We need to show

a united front."

The judge enters, and the courtroom falls silent. We are all asked to stand.

"This hearing is to determine the safest environment for the child, Abby Joseph," she begins, her tone authoritative. "We will hear from Dr. Green via video call, and all parties involved will have the opportunity to speak as I see fit."

Dr. Green's face appears on the screen, and he starts by outlining Abby's medical condition and the importance of a stable environment for her recovery. His words are measured and careful, highlighting the delicate nature of Abby's health. "Abby needs a stress-free environment," he says. "It's crucial for her well-being that she's in a place where she feels safe and loved. Any small upset can trigger her heart condition and she's already been through a lot lately." As he speaks, I glance at Phillip and reach back. We touch hands briefly. I feel eyes on me from across the room, but I refuse to look that way.

"Abby's latest results show elevated cortisol levels and blood pressure. This denotes stress. I'd like to see those levels significantly reduced before I can do her next surgery.

My eyes fill with tears hearing Dr. Green say that..

"I see. I will ask Dr. Green to stay connected as I may need to ask further questions," the judge says.

"Of course," he replies.

17 Fight For Abby.

Jayden's lawyer stands to present their case, arguing that Abby should remain with Jayden due to the accusations against me. They emphasize the need for stability and safety, painting a grim picture of my supposed, instability. 1

up straight, shoulders back. I keep eye contact with the judge even as a tear rolls down my cheek and I wipe it off with my hand. 681 Done