Page 119 of Atlas
The judge continues, tone harder now. “While the investigation is ongoing, the court cannot ignore Mr. Carpenter’s recent arrest for engaging in a sexual relationship with Ms. Green, who was fifteen at the time. Regardless of criminal findings, this behaviour demonstrates a gross lapse in judgment and an unsafe environment for Leo. And we must not ignore that whilst the investigation is ongoing, Mr. Carpenter has been suspended from his job.”
Damien shifts in his seat. If he thought he could charm or threaten his way out of this, he’s finally learning otherwise.
But it’s the next part that hits me in the chest.
“Given Leo’s age and maturity,” the judge says, glancing down at the papers in front of her, “his wishes have been taken into account. When asked where he felt safest and happiest, Leoexpressed a clear preference to live with his mother, Ms. Anita Jenson. He described her home as calm, stable, fun, and loving.”
Anita’s hand flies to her mouth. She just closes her eyes for a beat, like she’s exhaling all the weight she’s been carrying.
It’s over.
The judge looks up. “I believe she will provide Leo with everything he needs. She has proven herself time and time again, and I fail to understand why this has taken so long. I can only surmise that Mr. Carpenter has abused his position in this court, a position he currently does not hold. I also note that Ms. Jenson has reconciled with her parents, building a stronger support network. Sole custody is hereby granted to Ms. Jenson, with supervised visitation for Mr. Carpenter pending further investigation.”
She looks up, fixing Damien with a steely gaze. “Mr. Carpenter, the court cannot overlook the serious allegations of coercive control and what can only be described as sustained emotional intimidation. Should the ongoing investigations result in findings against you, the court will strongly consider revoking any future contact rights.”
The moment we step out the courtroom, Anita hurries towards us, her eyes already glistening.
“Thank you so much for coming today,” she says as Rue wraps her in a tight hug. “Having you both here made all the difference.”
“Have they said when Leo can come home?” Rue asks, pulling back.
Anita nods, joy breaking across her face. “Today. I can collect him from school this afternoon.”
“That’s incredible, Nita,” I say, meaning every word. “You did it.”
She nods, voice thick. “My boy is coming home.”
Tom appears beside her, sliding an arm around her shoulders. “Told you not to worry,” he murmurs, kissing her temple.
“Well done,” I say, holding out a hand. He shakes it firmly.
“And you have to bring Leo to the barbecue tomorrow,” Rue adds, smiling. “Everyone’s excited to meet him.”
Tom nods. “I think he’d like that. Sounds like a great idea.”
Rue
The sun’s starting to dip, casting the yard in warm gold as laughter spills around me. The scent of grilled meat still lingers in the air, mixing with smoke and beer and something sweet from the dessert table. Kids are running wild between bikes, men are yelling over card games, and someone’s turned up the music.
It’s been a good day. A really good day.
I sink deeper into one of the old outdoor couches, my drink sweating in my hand as I watch Kasey throw her head back laughing, flicking a paper plate at one of the guys who teased her. Her hair’s up, her boots are dusty, and for the first time in a long time, she looks . . . light.Free. Like maybe she’s finally let go of all that weight she used to carry around.
I smile to myself, letting it all sink in.
Atlas is somewhere nearby. I can feel him even when I don’t see him. It's like that now. This quiet awareness between us. We’ve slipped into a rhythm that feels easy, like we’ve been doing this for years instead of weeks. He still watches me like he can’t quite believe I’m real, and I still catch myself staring when he isn’t looking, my heart leaping every damn time.
But we haven’t talked about the future. Not really.
My flat still exists. My toothbrush is probably dry. But the thought of going back there . . . it feels hollow. Like rewinding time to a version of me I’ve outgrown. Everything I want is here—his shirt in my drawer, his scent on my pillow, and he touches my lower back when he walks past like it’s second nature now.
I want to stay.
I just don’t know if he wants me to.
The cushion dips beside me, and I don’t even have to look to know it’s him. Atlas stretches an arm along the back of the seat, letting his fingers brush my shoulder, and I lean into the touch like a sunflower chasing light.
“You see Leo out there?” he asks, his voice warm with amusement.
