Husband With Benefits

"Good morning. We are here today to consider Mr. Gregory Savoy’s petition to reinstate his parental rights to his daughter, Miss Arabelle Savoy, following the unfortunate passing of Mrs. Katherine Savoy. Let’s begin with introductions." The presiding judge stared over his spectacles at the two parties sitting on either side, ready to battle it out.

"Good morning, Your Honor. I’m Attorney Samuel Benson, representing Mr. Gregory Savoy, the petitioner."

"Good day, your honor, I am Attorner Baker, representing the late Mrs Savoy and ad litem of Miss Arabelle Savoy."

The judge nodded before turning back to the petetioner himself," Mr Savoy. Before we proceed, I want to address the serious nature of this petition. I understand you previously relinquished your parental rights. Can you explain why you are now seeking to reclaim them?"

Gregory stood, his movements deliberate and measured. He took a deep breath, his eyes momentarily closing as if to steady himself before he opened them and stated in an emotional voice," Your honor, the circumstance between then and now have changed. My ex-wife was an excellent woman and mother. We were in love with each other and our separation was due to some circumstances that we couldn’t avoid. We always planned to get together again. But until the situation was resolved, we decided that it would be best for Arabelle to be in the sole custody of her mother."

Autumn scoffed. Gregory Savoy should have been an author. Her mother and him planned to get together again. What a load of cra*!

However, Gabe had a very serious expression on his face. According to his own investigation, Gregory Savoy was a very cunning man and as slippery as an eel. Even now, he had managed to create a scene where they would be on the back foot. Now, they would need to prove that he was an irresponsible man or even a danger to Arabelle. He’d expected that the man would have a strong backing though.

Meanwhile, the man was continuing, "since then, I’ve worked tirelessly to improve my situation. I’ve secured stable employment, moved into a better home, and attended parenting classes. I want to be the father Arabelle deserves. When Katherine passed away, it made me realize just how much Arabelle needs me now."

The judge nodded and turned to Mr Baker, who quickly took the cue and began," Your Honor, while Mr. Savoy’s intentions might seem commendable, we must consider the stability and emotional well-being of Miss Arabelle. She has just lost her mother and has been living with her older sister, sheltered and adapting to her circumstances. With Mr Savoy’s wanting to be a good parent and reclaiming his rights, she faces another personal major upheavel."

The judge turned to look at the man who was already prepared," Your Honor, I understand the importance of stability for Arabelle. I’ve arranged for a family therapist to work with us, to ensure a smooth transition. I’m also committed to maintaining a strong relationship between Arabelle and my step daughter Autumn, so she won’t feel like she’s losing her family. My goal is to provide her with a stable, loving home where she can thrive. I would welcome Autumn into my family as well, but we’ve had incorrigible differences and I believe she would not be willing."