Chapter 7 - THE VISIT Dana Brooks was calm.
That almost made it worse.
She entered our home, introduced herself, and explained why she was there.
A report had been filed claiming our household was emotionally unstable and that Emma might be unsafe.
I wanted to scream.
Instead, I remembered James's advice.
Facts.
Not anger.
Facts.
Dana observed Emma.
She asked about feeding, sleeping, medical care, routines.
Then she asked about Christmas.
I told her everything.
James provided the urgent-care paperwork.
Megan's video.
Dad's statement.
Lauren's social-media posts.
The recording from the guest room.
Dana watched the Christmas video twice.
When it ended, she looked at us.
"I don't have immediate concerns about Emma's safety in this home."
I almost cried.
But Dana wasn't finished.
"I do have concerns about the adult shown striking her."
After she left, I sat on the stairs.
Exhaustion finally swallowed me.
James sat beside me.
"She tried to make us look dangerous."
"And failed."
"This time."
My phone rang.
Dad.
"Your mother is packing."
"For where?"
"Your house."
"No."
"She's hysterical."
"Then stop her."
Dad hesitated.
"There is something else."
"What?"
"Lauren came here this morning."
My stomach tightened.
"They fought."
"About what?"
"Money."
"What money?"
Dad lowered his voice.
"Your mother has been paying Lauren's rent for almost a year."
I closed my eyes.
"Why?"
"Because Lauren threatened to tell you what your mother did with Emma's college account."
I froze.
"Emma doesn't have a college account with Mom."
May you like
Dad whispered:
"Yes, she does."
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