Strings of Fate

Strings of Fate

208- Custody and caring

The morning goes by in a rush. Megan and I are constantly on the go with Kiara trailing along with us as we prepare for the last minute dinner plans. I probably could have planned them for later in the week but I didn’t want to wait and it IS doable. Just requires a bit of

extra planning. By one in the afternoon we have had Darien and Bellamy rearrange the furniture and move in a couple of fold up trestle tables to make space for everyone as well as a bunch of extra chairs. Kiara is currently working with Darien to lay table clothes over all the tables to kind of merge them together while Megan and I start prepping stuff for dinner. Thankfully she’s a much more experienced cook than me and has some idea of how to prepare such a large meal. I did suggest just ordering something but she insisted on making it ourselves and I don’t mind trying. Worst case scenario, it fails and we order pizza. Just before three, Alex arrives Bellamy and I leave Kiara with Megan who is in the middle of prepping

some chocolate mousse desserts and head to the office.

“So, I did locate one living relative for Kiara, her grandfather on her mother’s side. I

contacted him and arranged for a meeting: He lives interstate so it will be another video conference call.” Alex explains. I feel cold and sort of panicky. Interstate? I don’t want her to move that far away. I’ve definitely gotten attached, plus I think spending time with Logan will be good for her. Is it really fair for her to move so far away from where she’s grown up so far? Alex sets up the call then excuses himself, announcing that he will go assist Megan with the meal preparations and to call if we need him. The call goes through and I’m surprised to see

a young woman on the screen.

“Hello? Oh good it’s working. One moment.” She swivels the camera around to show an old

man who must be Kiara’s grandfather.

“Thanks Joe.” He tells the woman gently.

“Good afternoon.” Bellamy greets him.

this is my partner Ryann Gale. Did Alex explain the situation to you?” Bellamy asks politely.

I used to. And only a little. Your friend Alex explained that there was some

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Custody and

Not since she married that Reaper. I never approved. It’s not safe, and what kind of life

daughter and her husband were murdered several weeks ago.” Bellamy says carefully. Ray goes even paler than he already was, which is saying something because he didn’t look all that well to begin

I only got your message because your man tracked down my carer and called her to arrange this meeting. Is… is this about her estate then? I can’t imagine that she was especially well off.” He considers. My eyes widen and I glance at Bellamy. Does he not know he has a granddaughter? If he cut contact ten years ago it’s entirely possible that he doesn’t know. I take

child. A girl named Kiara. This call is about her.” I tell him.

know.” He admits. He doesn’t seem all that torn up about it if I’m being totally honest. I don’t

this point. We are trying to determine what should be done regarding her living situation. Legally, she goes into your care, although we’ve been looking after her temporarily.” I tell him. He immediately shakes his

She can’t come here. Find someone else.” He declares. I have to repress the desire to yell at him. I can see why Kiara’s parents cut ties with this man.

her wellbeing or wished her any condolences. It’s a good thing he doesn’t want her because I don’t think I could give her

clarify, you are giving up your custody rights of Kiara?” Bellamy asks. Ray

dismissively.

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Custody and caring

to someone else or put her up for adoption if it comes to that. I can’t take her. Now, is that all? I have an appointment at four and I want to get there early.” He grumbles. Bellamy nods and without

1 explode.

cannot send her to him, even if he DID want her!” I rant, keeping

he is so calm. What are we supposed to do? It was already going to be hard enough giving Kiara up to her family. Am I supposed to give her to strangers? Or put her in foster care, a

having S*x.” He says casually, clearly