Chapter 11

The courthouse buzzed with a tide of faces – some bright, some burdened. Mine was a blank slate. But I knew, whatever the outcome, I wouldn't regret this.

Yvonne was late. Ten o'clock came and went. She arrived in a severe black suit, her makeup understated, elegant. Ready for a board meeting, not a divorce.

"Let's go," she said, her voice flat, her gaze averted.

We walked side-by-side, yet worlds apart. We used to walk like this, hands intertwined. A wry smile touched my lips. Five years, ending just like this.

The proceedings were surprisingly smooth. Perhaps the preparation, perhaps our shared eagerness for the end. When the clerk asked about reconsideration, Yvonne’s reply was sharp: "No need. We've thought this through."

I met her gaze, wordless. She was simmering, but I wouldn't engage.

The divorce certificate felt like liberation. Five years, finally over.

Stepping out into the harsh sunlight, Yvonne paused on the courthouse steps. "Cole," she asked, "are you sure you won't regret this?"

I shook my head. "No, Yvonne. We need to move on."

A flicker of something – regret? – crossed her face, then vanished. "Alright. That's it, then. Contact my assistant if you need anything."

The click of her heels faded into the crowd. I watched her disappear.

Chapter 1

Home. Jonas waited, eyes hopeful. He rushed to me. "Daddy, did you make up with Mommy?"

I knelt, my voice soft. "Jonas, we're divorced. You'll be living with me. Is that okay?"

His eyes welled. He shook his head violently. "No! I don't want you to get divorced! I want to live with Mommy and Daddy!" His small body trembled in my arms. It broke my heart, but there was no other way.

"Jonas," I said, "things between grown-ups can be complicated. But no matter what, we both love you very much."

He cried until exhaustion claimed him. I tucked him into bed, kissed his forehead. Guilt gnawed at me as I looked at his sleeping face.

Xavier stood in the doorway, his expression contemptuous. He'd heard everything.

"What? Just realized you needed to comfort me too?" His voice was icy.

I crouched, meeting his eyes. "Xavier, I—"

"Don't," he cut me off. "You always wanted to send me to Mommy, didn't you? Happy now?"

My heart ached. "Xavier, I know you like Jared better, but I'll always be your dad."

He scoffed. "Who cares? Jared's a hundred times better."

Chapter 12

(Note: Chapter 12 content omitted as requested)