Chapter 31
Judge Cosby looked every bit the seasoned magistrate.
Now, his brow furrowed as his calculating eyes scanned the documents.
The fluorescent lights highlighted every crease that concentration etched into his face.
When he lowered his chin and peered over the rim of his glasses, sweat tracked down Wade’s temple.
Wade shifted on his bench, the nerves crawling under his skin.
Claire’s hand slipped into his—damp, yet comforting.
He squeezed back. They needed each other’s reassurance.
Across the aisle, the Weavers’ lawyer leaned toward Mrs. Weaver and whispered.
The confidence in their postures made Wade’s stomach tighten.
He’d better not look at them. If their gazes collided, he might not contain his roiling emotions. For Bella’s sake, he hoped they’d find a way to cooperate and create some semblance of family. But deep down, he feared they’d never see him and Claire as anything more than an obstacle.
The earlier ten minutes of legal back-and-forth had felt endless.
Sophia Simpson, Wade and Claire’s attorney, had presented evidence and facts as to what was in Bella’s best interest. In contrast, the Weavers’ lawyer relied on sentimental appeals, painting mourning grandparents seeking their last connection to their daughter.
Now, everything hinged on whether Judge Cosby could see what Wade and Claire believed—Bella belonged with them. The mere thought of losing her made him feel caged, like water trapped behind a dam, ready to burst free.
Sophia presented photos of their family life—many thanks to Pleasant View’s prying paparazzi—depicting warmth, stability, and love. Even the judge mentioned recognizing Wade from Peak Protectors and seeing the glossy wedding announcement in the Pleasant View Gazette.
Judge Cosby set the documents aside, folded his arms across the polished table, and eyed the two opposing parties.
Claire’s trembling fingers gripped Wade’s tighter, and he patted her hand. “Breathe.”
He needed the reminder himself. He exhaled, steadying his racing heart. Squaring his shoulders, he focused on the judge and the decision that would define Bella’s future. And theirs.
“Based on the evidence presented and, more importantly, the wishes outlined in Mr. Albert Khumalo’s will…”
Wade’s heart thudded, every nerve on edge.
Judge Cosby focused on the Weavers. “I’m sorry you didn’t have the opportunity to reconcile with your daughter before her passing.
” An almost eternal pause followed, each second weighted.
“But I find no compelling reason to override Mr. Khumalo’s stated intentions.
You have not been involved in Bella’s life since her birth, so it’s not in the child’s best interest to remove her from the care of her aunt, who has been one of her guardians since infancy. ”
Wade released a breath, matching Claire’s exhale beside him.
“I also note the significant involvement of Mr. and Mrs. Stone in Bella’s life prior to Albert’s passing. So, in response to the first motion, I find in favor of the defendants.”
Defendants. Thank You, Lord.
“Regarding the second motion for full custody of Arabella Khumalo.” Wasn’t this already over? “Custody will remain in effect unless evidence arises indicating the child is unsafe.”
Wade’s fingers found Claire’s again. He brought her hand to his lips and brushed a tender kiss over her knuckles.
She relaxed under his touch, the tension easing from her shoulders.
He hugged her, breathing in her lavender and vanilla scent.
He’d protect her and Bella always. He’d never take this victory for granted.
Across the table, Sophia offered a small, triumphant nod.
He rose, barely able to contain his emotions.
Claire stood. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she threw her arms around him and sobbed into his shoulder. “We have our baby.”
“That we do, sweetheart. Praise God for that.”
Sophia approached and slung her laptop bag over her shoulder. “Congratulations, you two.”
“Thank you.” Claire released Wade to hug Sophia.
“You’ve been incredible.” He extended his hand to shake Sophia’s. How else could he put it into words?
“This was a team effort.”
Faint grumbling drifted from the Weavers’ side. It didn’t matter. He and Claire had won the fight, and now their family was secure.
“You’re joining us for dinner.” Wade told Sophia as he pulled out his phone and fired off a group text to his family. “We need to celebrate.”
“Well, I’m not going to argue.”
As they walked out, Claire chatted with Sophia. When they emerged into the crisp November air, Wade caught the sharp tones of Bella’s grandmother. The Weavers were huddled with their attorney, their body language stiff and defensive.
He didn’t want to make enemies, and Claire wouldn’t want that either. He pressed her shoulders and nodded toward Sophia. “What if we introduce ourselves to the Weavers?”
Claire looked at him. Then a thoughtful smile curved her lips. “Properly?”
Sophia’s brow arched. “What are you thinking, Wade?”
“Claire and I talked about this before. Maybe, if they want to know us better, we could consider allowing some visitation rights. Bella deserves to know her family—all of her family. She’s not a trophy to be competed for. She’s a child who needs to be loved.”
Claire squeezed his hand. “It’s a good day to give others a second chance.”
“We’d better catch up to them, then.” Sophia motioned toward their backs as they started in the opposite direction. She called out to the group, and they turned, their attorney folding his arms and tilting his head.
“The defendants,” she began, her voice measured and professional, “would like to discuss some visitation rights if you’re open to that.”
The Weavers’ attorney arched a brow. “Visitation rights?”
Bella’s grandfather took a half step forward, his gaze narrowing as if assessing their sincerity. Interest broke through the guarded exterior. Bella’s grandmother, however, remained rigid, her frown deepening.
Wade extended a hand. “Wade Stone.” After Mr. Weaver took his hand and shook it, Wade gestured to Claire. “I believe you’ve met my wife.”
“Not officially.” Claire stepped up and shook Mr. Weaver’s hand before turning to his wife. “It’s nice to meet you both.”
Wade adjusted his jacket. “If I weren’t adopted into a loving family, I wouldn’t be the person I am today.
” Perhaps his story was meant for such a moment.
His gaze lingered on Mrs. Weaver’s furrowed brows.
“Family isn’t about who has the most money or the best house or even who makes the rules.
It’s about showing the child they are worthy of your time, they are loved. ”
Mrs. Weaver’s frown softened, though her arms remained crossed. Her husband gave a slight nod, so Wade pressed on.
“Bella needs as many people as possible in her corner, people who can build her up, strengthen her confidence, and help her become the person God meant for her to be. This isn’t about making her choose sides. We want her to know she has a big family who loves her.”
If he hadn’t said everything needed, Claire would know what to say. He grasped her hand. “My wife has something to say too.”
Claire’s eyes clouded. Then mischief scrunched her face. “Maybe you could join us for dinner tomorrow? We could have the attorneys there too, just so we can all get to know each other better. Bella deserves to know all of us.”
Dinner? At their house? He mentally scrambled to imagine how they’d fit everyone into their modest dining area—oh, wait. They didn’t even have a dining room. But if Claire thought this was the right step, he’d make it happen. They couldn’t move into their new house tonight. Or could they?
Bella’s grandfather exchanged a glance with his wife, who seemed to weigh the invitation. She uncrossed her arms and let out a relieved breath. “We’ll think about it.” At least, her tone was less frosty.
Sophia gave Wade and Claire an approving smile before turning back to the Weavers’ attorney to exchange contact information for the follow-up.
With a promise to text Sophia the restaurant’s address for their celebration that afternoon, he and Claire started toward the parking lot.
“How are we going to fit everyone in the house?” He just had to ask.
Claire chuckled, her laughter music to his ears as she swung their entwined hands. They approached the limousine where Steve waited in the parking lot. They’d both been too nerve-racked to drive over here. “We’ll figure it out. For now, let’s focus on celebrating.”
Figuring it out was exactly what he was doing. He was starting to believe he could pull off parenting. But was he ready to spend an entire week in charge of the busy infant?
As promised, Wade watched Bella while Claire attended her bead show—an overnight trip she’d been eagerly anticipating.
He could handle it. After all, how hard could it be to manage a baby for a couple of days?
He was a man on a mission, head over heels for his wife, and determined to prove himself a great dad.
But by day one, reality hit.
Changing Bella on the changing table? Out of the question.
She was a wiggle worm, crawling and rolling at every opportunity.
He played it safe on the floor. Still, staying cooped up wasn’t an option.
With the new jogger stroller, he took her for a run.
He’d seen videos of dads jogging with their kids. So surely, he could do that.
The dream ended when the stroller tipped while he navigated a curb. Bella was unharmed, but her startled cry pierced his chest.
To make it up to her, he played peekaboo in the living room. Bella’s squeals filled the air, her tiny arms flailing with a heartwarming joy. In her excitement, the exersaucer overturned. She bumped her head. His chest constricted as she wailed.