The Last Time (Camren)

Chapter 13 - Final

The court process of adoption was finally being wrapped up. Lauren was seated in the courtroom with her lawyer to her left and girlfriend behind her. Vero was in her wheelchair on the other side with her own lawyer all ready for the adoption finalization hearing as well.

"So, the birth father... Shawn Mendes, is it? Serving a life sentence?" the judge asks Lauren.

"Yes, your Honor," she replies.

"And she's been staying with you since this incident involving her birth mother?"

"Yes, sir," she nods. "She's been under my care and protection since she was first born, under the impression she was my biological daughter."

It was graciously noted to the judge that Lauren had a penis.

"You were also under the impression that you were her biological mother, correct?" he questions.

"Yes, correct," Lauren steals a glance at Vero in the room who sends back a tight-lipped smile. Almost like she's still guilty for that whole situation which she still is.

Vero is then called up to testify on her behalf.

"Lauren and I have been talking over the past half-year about what's in the best interest of our child," she begins which causes the CEO to grin. "And we both think it would be best if Lauren takes Olivia in her care full-time and raises her as she's been doing so ever since the first day she's been born."

Lauren's smile grows wider while blinking back tears.

"Miss Iglesias, are you sure you would like to surrender your rights like this?" the judge asks.

"Yes, your Honor. As I deal with my PTSD, ADHD, and continue physical therapy for my paralysis, I think having Olivia with Lauren would allow her a greater and healthier living environment."

The judge shuffles through more papers and comes to a final decision.

"I find this adoption in the best interest of the child. Miss Iglesias will be allowed the right and privilege as the biological mother to visit Olivia openly as long as it is agreed upon by Miss Jauregui. Therefore, I hereby grant Miss Lauren Jauregui as the legal parent of Olivia Jauregui. Congratulations, Lauren."

Friends and family engulf the "new" mother in a hug. Especially Camila who never leaves her side as Lauren thanks everyone for coming to the court hearing.

"I'm so happy for you, honey," Camila kisses her girlfriend on the cheek.

"Thank you for being there with me through this. It means the world to me," the CEO holds onto her closely.

"Of course. I'll always be there for you."

Lauren can breathe a sigh of relief now that everything is shaping up how it's supposed to. She got her daughter to be legally hers, her girlfriend by her side, and her family all together as one.

She took both her son and daughter out that evening. Just the three of them grabbed dinner and saw a movie the kids have been dying to see. It was at that time where Olivia and Jason pretty much understood that they were now brother and sister. For real this time. Something that was a long time coming but now that it was on paper, they couldn't be more ecstatic.

***

Christmas

Following the twins' birthdays, Lauren and Camila decided to throw yet another party during the holiday season. It was also like a housewarming party for the couple since Lauren bought a new house in Miami Beach. It had an even better view of the ocean and just fit better for the family of four. Yes, Camila and Jason now lived with her and Olivia full-time.