Chapter 131: Conflicted Hearts
Diane’s POV
The phone rang just as I was settling Danielle down for her afternoon nap. Joan’s name flashed on the screen, and I felt my stomach tighten with anticipation today was the day of the conference with the judge, after we got a feedback from the court a week ago.
"How did it go?" I asked without preamble, balancing the phone against my ear while gently rocking my daughter.
"The court conference is over," Joan’s voice came through, steady but tired. "I’m coming to stay over for sometime if that’s okay. We need to talk about what happened."
Relief flooded through me. Having Joan here would make everything feel more manageable. "Of course," I replied without hesitation. "Joan, could you please bring my remaining things?
There was a pause before she asked, "Diane, would you mind if I also brought those gifts Liam got for the kids?"
I hesitated, my hand tightening around the phone. The rational part of me wanted to refuse, to reject anything that came from Liam. But despite everything, despite my fear and anger, Dylan and Danielle were still his children.
"Yes," I said finally. "Yes, bring them. They’re still his children, and I’m not going to restrict him from buying gifts for them."
Less than an hour later, I heard Joan’s car pulling into the driveway. My heart lifted immediately—I’d missed her so much. Before she could even reach the front door, I was running outside, careful not to jostle Danielle who was sleeping in my arms.
"Joan!" I called out, unable to contain my excitement.
She turned from her car with a warm smile, and I practically threw my free arm around her in an awkward but heartfelt hug.