Chapter 17 - Caroline almost wins the wrong way
The temporary relocation hearing came before the full final hearing because Caroline needed to make school decisions.
Her attorneys did not use the tainted videos.
Good.
They used legitimate factors:
Caroline’s move tied to Thomas’s confirmed employment.
Strong school district.
Stable home.
Caroline’s flexible schedule.
Extended family nearby? Thomas’s parents.
Odelia’s relationship with her mother.
Travel feasibility.
My side:
Existing primary school-week arrangement.
Odelia’s strong bond with me.
Her therapist and school continuity.
My ability to maintain care.
The instability introduced by moving states.
Odelia’s own reluctance.
The court denied temporary relocation with Odelia pending final hearing.
Caroline could move herself.
Odelia stayed.
This was not final victory.
Caroline cried in the hallway.
I saw.
For one second I wanted satisfaction.
Then remembered she was Odelia’s mother.
Her loss meant separation too.
I approached.
“Caroline.”
She wiped her face.
“What?”
“I’m not happy you’re hurting.”
She laughed bitterly.
“You’re happy she’s staying.”
“Yes.”
“Same thing.”
“No.”
She looked at me.
Maybe believed me.
May you like
Maybe not.
Conflict can contain grief on both sides.
