Page 90 of Steele

I turned to the judge. “I did threaten her. I told her I’d stay married to her before I’d give up my kid. I’ll own my mistakes.” I could hear Bullet in my head. “But I’m not taking a hit for something I didn’t do.”

Regina asked me to retell the events leading up to being served the restraining order. I focused on Natalie’s lack of communication and her refusal to settle the divorce. “When I wouldn’t compromise on visitation, she found a way to force me out.”

The judge had a few questions, and then Natalie’s attorney directed questions to me. “Do you own a firearm?”

“We’ve already provided documentation to the court,” Regina said. “Mr. Steele does not have any registered firearms.”

“That’s not what I asked,” her attorney said. “Do you possess a firearm?”

“No,” I stated clearly. Not a lie. I turned it in to Dozer after Natalie filed the restraining order.

“Have you ever used illegal substances?”

I leaned back in my chair. “In the past, I have.”

“How recently?”

“Prior to our separation. If the court needs verification, I’ll take a drug screening today. However, I’d ask that Natalie also take a screening because the last time I used, we used together.”

“Are you affiliated with an outlaw motorcycle club?”

My attorney stood to address the court. “This isn’t a criminal trial, a divorce or custody hearing. Does the petitioner have any evidence to support their position? My client has lost his job, his child, and has had his name tarnished by these accusations.”

The judge addressed Natalie and her attorney. “If I discover you are attempting to use the legal system to improve your position in your custody dispute with the respondent, in addition to perjury charges, I’ll order you to pay the respondent’s attorney fees and any court costs associated with the manipulation. This can and will include attorney’s fees and costs to determine what’s in the best interest of your child. I have a report from the Guardian ad Litem. I think you know that there’s no evidence of the unsubstantiated allegations. The recommendation is for uninterrupted parenting arrangements. I’ll provide you both with a copy.”

Natalie stared straight ahead, showing no emotion.

“The petitioner lacks the credibility to prove a reasonable risk of fear or harm. The case is dismissed. That means you cannot appeal the decision or refile without new evidence.” The judge closed a file on her desk. “I will give you some advice,” she said to Natalie. “Don’t prioritize your hatred over the well-being of your child. Co-parent with Mr. Steele. Court is dismissed.”

“Excuse me?” I stood.

The judge paused. “Go get your little girl, Mr. Steele. I’m sure she’s eager to see you.”

I ignored Natalie and walked out with Regina. Cory sat on a bench in the corridor outside the courtroom.

“I’ll make sure you get a certified copy of the dismissal,” Regina said before walking away.

I approached Cory.

“I assume everything worked out in your favor.”

“You speaking up for me helped,” I said.

“I didn’t speak up for you. I just wasn’t going to lie for her. I believed her until she came up with that list. I could believe an isolated incident. You were pissed about the custody situation.” He leaned forward and clasped his hands together. “Nat believes she’s doing what’s best for Lili.”

Just then Natalie came out of the courthouse and paused. Her gaze shifted between me and her brother. I didn’t have anything to say to her, but I also didn’t want to fight with her. Before I could offer a truce, she walked away with her attorney.

Cory’s gaze followed her to the end of the hall where she joined Henri.

I sat next to him. “I never meant to push her. All I want is my kid.”

“After this, I don’t think you’ll have a fight for custody. I think she got desperate after her attorney told her to prepare to have the order dismissed. Unlike me, he still believes her. He told her to protect herself by any means necessary.”

I stared down the empty hall. “It would hurt Lili to take her from her mom.”

“I love my sister.” Cory stood. “But watch your back. She’s not over whatever went wrong between you.” He pulled his keys from his pocket. “I’m already fucked for the holidays. I might as well go all in. I need you back on the job. Are you interested?”

“Yeah, if you’ve got any ideas on how I can reach a truce with your sister.”