Page 143 of Nine Week Nanny

I pick up the folded piece of paper, the other still holding the pendant.

I found this while unpacking. It was Lennon's mom's, and something he treasures. I'm sorry I didn't realize I had it and didn't return it sooner. Please make sure he gets it. -S

My throat closes. Just an initial. No name, no return address on the package.

But I know her handwriting. I'd seen it on Lennon's progress notes, on grocery lists stuck to the refrigerator, on little drawings she'd make for him during lessons.

How did I miss that on the outside of the package? I pick up the torn brown paper that had wrapped the box and run my finger over my name she wrote in block letters.

Looking above it, I see her return address. Augusta, Georgia. She must have moved back to her hometown.

A lump forms in my throat, and I try to swallow the sadness down.

I squeeze the necklace in my palm, gold links coiling like liquid metal. The weight of it is nothing compared to the heaviness spreading through my chest.

"Goddammit, Sloane," I mutter, pressing my thumb against the azabache charm.

The note trembles in my hand. I press it flat against the desk, trying to steady myself.

She knew exactly what this meant to him. Even after everything, after the photos, after losing her job, after I'd failed to protect her, she still cared enough to make sure Lennon got this back.

The ache I've been burying for months tears through me with fresh intensity. It’s not just a package. It’s her. Reaching across the distance, reminding me what I lost.

Wood panels absorbour whispers as Warren shuffles papers beside me. My suit is uncharacteristically tight across my shoulders, tailored perfectly but suddenly too confining.

I glance back at Dana Black sitting behind us, her expression neutral as she reviews her notes. Beside her, Lennon's small frame perches on the edge of the bench, his legs nowhere near touching the floor.

His tiny fingers work the azabache charm that’s back in its rightful place, hanging from his neck. He rubs the smooth black stone between thumb and forefinger. He hasn't taken it off since Sloane sent it back about a month ago.

Something catches in my chest watching him clutch it like a lifeline.

The clerk's voice cuts through my thoughts. "Case number 22-CV-4738, In the matter of minor child Lennon Lopez, petition for adoption."

My name follows, formal and strange in this context. Not businessman, or investor. Just the man who wants to be this boy's father.

Judge Collins peers down from the bench, his silver hair catching the fluorescent light. His hazel eyes move deliberately between the paperwork and my face.

"Mr. Carrigan, you have served as temporary guardian for several months now. The court recognizes you have provided stability, routine, and safety for the minor child. Today is to determine whether you intend to pursue permanency."

Warren rises smoothly beside me, buttoning his suit jacket with practiced ease.

"Your Honor, my client does intend to file a formal petition for adoption."

The scratch of the judge's pen fills the pause. He looks directly at me.

"Mr. Carrigan, can you confirm this is your intention?"

I stand, placing my palms flat against the cool surface of the table to ground myself. A hundred boardrooms, a thousand negotiations, and I've never felt my heart hammer like this.

"Yes, Your Honor. I want to adopt Lennon. I have discussed it with Camila Reyes, and we both agree this is in the best interest of Lennon."

The words hang in the air between us, simple and immense.

Judge Collins nods, making another note. "The next six months will involve a full home study and financial review, conducted by Ms. Black, who has already served as Guardian ad Litem. Her report will be filed with the court before the finaladoption hearing. Assuming her recommendation is favorable, and all obligations are met, this court will enter a final decree of adoption."

Dana inclines her head when the judge acknowledges her. "I'll arrange the schedule for home visits and continue my oversight, Your Honor."

"The court also acknowledges the trust fund you established to safeguard Lennon's inheritance. That transparency is noted and appreciated."