“I’ve run our household expenses without a single overdraft for nine years,” I said.

“If this goes to a formal hearing before Judge Whitmore, Grant will ask for full physical custody of Sophie and exclusive possession of the Hartford house,” Hale said.

“Is that meant as a threat, Mr.

Hale?” I asked.

Hale snapped the cap back onto his gold fountain pen with a sharp metallic click.

“That’s an accurate summary of our motion.”

***