“Hello, Ms. Hammer. This is Susan from the offices of Brown and Epstein. I wanted to set up a tele-appointment with Mr. Epstein for today. We were wondering if you were available around 1:00 this afternoon?”
Um, what?
“I’m sorry, I think there must be some misunderstanding. Who is this?”
“Susan from Mr. Epstein’s office. Dawson Shawfield contacted us on your behalf about your custody issue.”
I gritted my teeth. “Oh, I’m sorry, I was unaware of?—”
“Mr. Shawfield said it was a time-sensitive matter, so we made room in Mr. Epstein’s schedule for today. I was hoping to get the name of your previous representative so we could obtain the necessary documents to bring Mr. Epstein up to speed.”
I took in a deep breath. “Could you hold for one moment?”
“Yes, ma’am.”
I flipped back to Grace. “Grace. Shaw hired a new law firm.”
“Good. Because it’s probably the best.”
“I told him not to get involved.”
“Hiring the best lawyer you could have is probably the best thing he could do for you. I mean, your other lawyer hasn’t called you back yet, and this one is ready to meet with you today,” Grace said. “Don’t cut off your nose to spite your face, Kelcie. If this helps you out of the situation, who cares who is helping you? It’s not about your pride, honey. It’s about Aaron.”
Well, crap. I gritted my teeth. I didn’t know why I was being so obstinate. “Give me a moment.” I flipped back to the lady.
“Yes, 1:00 should be fine.” I gave her the information for my previous lawyer and said I would call and ask them to forward all files to the new firm.
I texted Shaw to thank him.
Me
Thank you for the referral.
Shaw
They are the best in the area. Please, just talk to them.
I stared at the screen for a moment.
Me
I can’t afford a big firm, Shaw.
Shaw
I can. And don’t fight with me about it. It’s not negotiable. Did you get the contract from Smitty?
Me
Yes, but I haven’t looked at it yet.
Shaw
Forward it to me. I’ll have some people look at it.
Me
Okay.
