Page 106 of State of Grace (First Family 2)

“Imagine being that insane that you’d do something like that to someone you claim to love.”

“I know. It’s like trying to blow up your ex and the guy you kept her from for six years.”

He huffed out a laugh. “Just like. Hey, so pay dirt on the Lawsons. They filed for bankruptcy last year, and the Dennises’ business is in trouble. They had a customer sue them last year, and the case is looking to go against them, which will wipe them out.”

“No way. So none of them are interested in the kids. They want their money. Those motherfuckers.”

“What’re you going to do with this info?”

“I’ll pass it on to Andy and have him request they submit their financials to prove they have the means to care for the kids. Thanks for doing that for me.”

“Happy to do anything I can to help.”

“Even somewhat unethical things?”

“Even that.”

“Have a good night.”

“You, too.”

Sam fired off a text to Andy. Those MF’ing Lawsons filed for bankruptcy last year, and the Dennises are being sued by a customer, and it’s not looking good for them, so they’re on a fundraising mission with this custody suit.

Andy responded right away. How do you know?

I can’t say… What can we do with it?

I’ll request financials as part of the discovery.

I was hoping you’d say that. This is good info to have, right?

It doesn’t hurt…

On top of them blackmailing Eli…

Yeah, they’re really showing their asses.

Everyone is so upset. This is unbearable.

I’ve requested an emergency hearing to try to get this resolved before Christmas. I’m fairly confident that the judge will throw it out when he sees the airtight custody plan Cleo and Jamison drafted.

What if he doesn’t?

Then we go to war.

The thought of that made Sam’s stomach ache fiercely. Thank you for all you’re doing.

I’d tell you not to worry, but I know that’s pointless. I’ll let you know about the emergency hearing.

Thanks, Andy.

He responded with a thumbs-up emoji.

Sam slapped her phone closed with more than the usual velocity.

“Uh-oh,” Nick said from the doorway. “What’s wrong?”

The sound of his voice, the sight of his handsome, tired face… That was all it took to calm and settle her. How did he do that just by coming into the room? “Scotty and Eli are stressing big-time about the custody case.”

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