Chapter 13 - AVA GOT TO CHOOSE
Bianca’s temporary custody restrictions became formal after a family-court hearing.
She was granted supervised contact with Ava while the abuse investigation continued.
The court did not hand Ava to Rocco.
He had no legal parental relationship with her.
That disappointed Noah when he finally understood Ava was not returning to the estate soon.
“Why?”
Rocco sat beside him on the playroom floor.
“Because Ava gets to live somewhere she feels safe.”
“With us.”
“Maybe.”
Noah frowned.
“She helped me.”
“I know.”
“Then she stays.”
Rocco smiled sadly.
“That isn’t how people work.”
Noah did not appreciate that answer.
A week later, Ava agreed to a supervised visit with Noah at a neutral family center.
Rocco was allowed to bring him but stayed across the room.
Ava looked nervous when Noah entered.
Noah did not.
He ran toward her.
The supervisor gently slowed him before he crashed into her.
Ava knelt.
For several seconds neither child spoke.
Then Noah asked:
“Why you say dog?”
Ava’s face crumpled.
“I’m sorry.”
“Mommy Bianca say?”
Ava nodded.
Noah thought about it.
Then handed her the same little flashlight.
“I don’t want it.”
Ava began crying.
So did Rocco, though he turned away before anyone could see much.
The visit did not repair everything.
May you like
It did something better.
It allowed the children to speak without an adult telling either one what the story was supposed to be.
