“Brandon has a draft petition ready to be served that demands full legal custody of Hazel, zero spousal support, and exclusive possession of your marital residence.”

‘A bitter, humorless laugh escaped my lips before I could stop myself.

“He is claiming that you are mentally unstable and entirely incapable of financial management,” Lauren added, turning a printed court draft toward me.

“He plans to use your frozen accounts and lack of independent income as proof that you cannot provide a safe roof over your daughter’s head.”

The terrifying genius of Brandon’s scheme was suddenly laid bare before my eyes.