“So many detailed spreadsheets,” Nora chuckled warmly in response.
“He knew I would investigate everything as soon as I found out,” I said, wiping my cheek.
“He knew that absolutely,” Nora agreed with a smile.
“And he knew I would be completely furious with him,” I added.
“He thought you would be terrified, actually,” Nora corrected softly.
For the very first time since the funeral, I laughed genuinely from deep within my chest. I still was not fully ready to become Leo’s legal guardian right away, but for the first time, I felt ready to ask myself whether I could eventually step into that role.
Over the next few weeks, I called Leo’s assigned social caseworker, met extensively with Denise, and spoke directly to a family law attorney.
“Can you actually afford to raise another child right now, Gemma?” the attorney asked me bluntly during our meeting.
“Not right at this moment,” I admitted honestly.
