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THIRTY-TWO
Shaw
I’ve metwith my lawyer a few times this past week. We’ve gone over anything that we could possibly be faced with. Summer’s storefront has been repaired and the officers haven’t been able to link Marie to the crimes. There was video surveillance, but they’re having issues linking her to the man in the video. She’s been questioned, and while she looked a little fidgety being interrogated, she continues to state that she was innocent.
We had a statement written by Summer’s employee who called me, and we are ready for her claim of harassment.
This afternoon is day one of court. I’m not sure what we should expect or how long it all will take, but I’m ready. Summer sits behind me in the courtroom and it’s time.
Marie walks in with a sneer on her face. Her boyfriend holding her hand as they walk through the courtroom.
The morning before we went to court, we got a visit from Officer Jones. He had seven photos with him to show us. I looked at each photo but didn’t recognize any of the guys. I pulled up her social media and checked her friend's list. None of the guys in the photos were on her friend's list either. We were no closer to finding out who vandalized the bookstore than we were on day one.
There has to be some crumb that was left behind.
The judge asked what kind of custody arrangement that I was seeking. He reviewed the mediator’s notes, then asked questions about both Marie and mines financial situations to see if there was capability for me to take on more time with Mason. He also asked how communication was with one another. I was honest. I told the judge about how, despite my attempt to co-parent; we had little communication outside of pickups or drop-offs. Then I told the judge about the confrontation with Summer at her store. The judge looked at Marie with annoyance, who looked at her lawyer with anger. Her lawyer stands up.
“Sir, those accusations are false. His girlfriend harassed my client.” The lawyer says with a shaky voice.
My lawyer stands immediately. “Actually, we have a notarized affidavit from a witness about the harassment that took place. It was entered in as item number A4.” The bailiff walks over the judge with a piece of paper in a plastic sheet. The judge reviews and then looks at me.
“Is this correct?” he asks.
I nod, “yes, sir.” I reply.
The judge then asks about our current arrangement, and what is not working for me. I declared that I wanted more time with my child. As a parent with no negative issues and a good job, I should be granted the same that my ex is granted.
The judge looks at the both of us and stands. “I will have a decision within 30 days for your case. In that time, I would implore you keep your interactions cordial, do not discuss the case with the minor child and to both stay out of trouble.”
I stand and shake hands with my lawyer. We both exit and with my hand on the small of Summer’s back, we leave the courtroom.
“Easy enough,” I sigh, “how do you think it went?” I ask my lawyer.
“I think that the bit about your ex blaming Summer for harassment is a big strike against her. She and her lawyer didn’t tell the truth in that moment, and having that signed affidavit was a smart move. That will definitely look favorable for you. Honestly, if you don’t get what you’re asking for, I would resign from my position. It’s a solid case.” He replies, holding out his hand to Summer.
She takes his hand and shakes. “Thank you for doing what you do, we appreciate it.”
“While you guys don’t have the judge's decision yet, go home and celebrate.” He looks to the both of us before turning on his heel and walking away.
I look to Summer and pull her closer to me by her waist. I kiss her just below her ear and hear a scoff off to the side, passing us. Not reacting to what I assume is Marie, I continue showing my affection.
“Get a room.” I hear a man say.
I laugh against Summer’s neck and reach down for her hand. “Let’s get out of here, I’m starving.”
We stoppedat the bookstore on the way home. Summer wanted to check in on her staff and make sure that everything was okay. I feel bad that she’s worried about someone coming along again and doing something to her business. I feel especially bad, since we haven’t been able to nail down the suspect or tie it to Marie. I know she had something to do with it, and it’s only a matter of time before she slips and we get any answers.
The bookstore is packed with customers, so packed that there’s a line.
Summer looks elated as she walks inside. My mom, who started volunteering at the store, despite Summer trying to pay her, on the other hand, looks like she could use some help. Summer immediately starts assisting customers who are in line, and in a matter of ten minutes, everyone has been helped. Summer turns to my mom.
“Boy am I glad that you came in here when you did. It’s been like that all day,” she waves her hand across her face.
“It’s been awhile since business has been booming like that.” Summer says, looking between us.
“A lot of them said that they heard about the break-in and wanted to show their support. By the way, that new thriller display and the new romance display are empty. I didn’t know if you had any more shipment of those, but I haven’t had a chance to go check the back room.” Mom tells her.
“Thank you for being so amazing, Janet.” Summer turns to me. “I’m going to stick around here for a bit, stock up and make sure your mom has some help in case it gets busy again.”
