A Story by Samuel

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Chapter Seven

His mother-in-law, Ciara, wanted to help Abbey, but her husband Ethan, who despised Ashley, prevented her from putting in an appearance. It broke Ciara’s heart as she loved her granddaughter and, with a mother’s empathy, could only imagine the profound suffering the little girl was enduring – pain no one, least of all a child, should have to bear. Further attempts to contact Quinn, made by his family, also ended in unsuccessful reconciliation. While her mother tried to reason with her about her maternal responsibilities, she remained unconvinced. Her father sided with her and said that she should seek out a divorce lawyer and sever ties as soon as possible. He would help her with the costs that would be incurred. She heeded his advice and within a week had arranged to meet with a lawyer to discuss fees plus the process for obtaining the divorce quickly. Her lawyer, Michael Grand, known for his expertise in divorce cases, expressed surprise that she would neither contest custody of her child nor seek spousal support.

Back home, Ashley became aware of the impending divorce application and was unsurprised when the court sheriff served the divorce papers at his workplace. He knew Abbey often spoke of her mother’s return, and this latest development from Quinn would be another cruel blow once he shared the news. That night, with his mother’s presence as an emotional sponge for Abbey, he broke the news as gently as possible. Upon hearing what was about to happen, Abbey burst into tears and fled to her room as fast as her little legs could carry her. There, she threw herself onto the bed, curled into a ball, and sobbed, her young heart breaking anew. Ashley left his mother to comfort her. All Jesse could do was pick up her granddaughter and hold her in a way that offered solace. She could not hide her tears from Abbey and they embraced each other, no words were needed. It was a long painful night for all three of them. Jesse worried about her son and grandchild, Ashley’s thoughts were consumed by Abbey’s well-being, and Abbey, too young to understand why life was treating her so unkindly. The emotional pain was rolling over her wave after wave after wave. Her heart was broken, her mind numbed and her body shaking with sobs that were barely audible but with a pounding heart that Jesse felt as she tried rocking her to quell her and quieten her down. It was another night of restlessness that they all needed to get through. 

Ashley chose not to reveal the full details of the divorce order. He mulled over its contents and started thinking about his defense strategy. He’ll shop around for a good lawyer to represent him. Three key points stood out from the letter: Quinn would not contest custody of Abbey; she did not seek any divorce settlement, likely knowing it would be financially impossible for him and could lead to a protracted legal battle; and she desired no visitation rights for Abbey. Her intentions were clear: a complete and final separation from both, him and Abbey, a total rejection with no possibility of future reconciliation or contact.

The following day, Friday. Jean arrived as usual to start with the housework. She was glad that Jesse was there to take care of her granddaughter. Ashley showered, dressed, and left for work, but not before a brief father-daughter hug that was a mixture of happiness and sadness. He called around ten that morning to check on Abbey. He was glad to hear that the two women had set aside their chores to play Monopoly with Abbey, one of her favourite games. For the moment, she was absorbed in the game, enjoying herself, especially as she seemed to be winning.

Slightly more at ease, he approached his manager to request the afternoon off to meet with the lawyer he planned to hire.  He got to the law firm he had chosen from a list he had researched and was introduced to David Webb who would be representing him. David reviewed the divorce papers, asked Ashley several pertinent questions, and provided a preliminary outline of his approach to the case. David, looking straight at Ashley said, “Mister Feine, can I call you Ashley? It won’t be an open-and-shut case as we are unsure of what to expect in the courtroom. She may end up changing her statement meaning we will have to contest. As far as refuting the misleading character accusations she has made, lies told about him as reasons for her seeking the divorce, which can easily be dealt with through reliable character witnesses testifying on his behalf.” With those words, they shook hands and Ashley left the lawyer’s office feeling a lot better and much more optimistic.

Once home, he updated his mother, Abbey’s nanny, and Abbey herself. He reached a point where he realized that shielding his daughter was no longer beneficial, as she seemed to have matured quickly through their recent difficulties. She was aware of what was going on and to some extent had begun accepting the inevitable even though it was still very painful. His mother had prepared supper for them. It just happened to be a dish that both Ashley and Abbey enjoyed tremendously. Nothing fancy. Just fried mutton chops steamed vegetables and savoury rice. His daughter had developed a love for meat when she started eating solids. As a treat that evening, she was given a bowl of vanilla ice cream. When supper was done, his mom and daughter went to the lounge area to watch some TV. He stayed in the kitchen to clear up and wash the dishes. 

The divorce court orders, delivered to Ashley at his workplace, contained false accusations that compelled him to contest the order. His motivation was not to fight for custody of Abbey, as that seemed assured, but rather to defend his reputation and protect Abbey from further emotional harm.

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