My Husband Said a Foster Child Would Leave With Nothing—Then a DNA Match Brought a Man With a Silver Cane to Our Divorce Hearing

It already was.

I could assert my position without agreeing to remain alone with him through the night.

I told him I was leaving temporarily and that communication about the case should go through Marcus.

Then I took the suitcase and walked outside.

Patrick later arranged a short booking at the Starlite Motor Inn, presenting it as assistance.

Elena urged me to seek a place not tied to his card, but it was available that night and I was tired.

I accepted the temporary room without agreeing to his terms.