Every word was a lie.
But the judge ordered an investigation.
A social worker came to the house.
Interviewed the boys.
Interviewed me.
Interviewed Adrian.
And then she sat down and said, “I need to ask you something, Miss Carter.”
My heart pounded.
“Are you and Mr. Vale in a romantic relationship?”
I froze.
Adrian’s jaw tightened.
“No,” I said.
The social worker’s gaze flicked between us.
“The children seem very attached to you.”
“I care about them.”
“Vanessa’s lawyer is arguing that you’re a destabilizing presence. That you’re playing house and confusing the children about their family structure.”
“That’s absurd,” Adrian said.
“Is it?” The social worker’s voice was neutral. “Because from the outside, it looks like you’ve replaced their mother.”
The words hit like a slap.
“I would never—”
“I’m not saying you intended to. But intent doesn’t change impact.”
She closed her notebook.
“I’ll be recommending increased visitation for Vanessa. And I’ll be suggesting that Miss Carter’s role in the household be reevaluated.”
She left.
Adrian and I sat in silence.
“I’ll resign,” I said finally.
“No.”
“Adrian, if it helps—”
“No.” He turned to face me, his eyes blazing. “I am not letting her take you away from them too.”
“Then what do we do?”
