Like That

Chapter 9 - Season Begins

Family is not an important thing. It's everything. -- Michael J. Fox

Chapter 9 - Season Begins

Emily's POV:

My first official girls' night is tomorrow. It's Lil's birthday and she wants to go out and sing. I'm not much for karaoke but the idea of a night out with these girls sounds great. I'll be riding with Lil since she doesn't live that far from me, and she offered me a lift to Jo-Jo's. My boys are going to my parent's house after the game tonight and won't be home until Sunday afternoon. That's good- because I won't be in an empty house for long.

As I leave school mom is waiting in the parking lot. She didn't want me going to the lawyer without someone. She was worried that I might forget some important information. "I thought I was meeting you at the lawyer's office?"

"No, I don't like that you would be going by yourself. I came to give you a ride so you would not be alone. Is that ok?" she asked.

"Yes, it is. Thanks."

"Do you have any idea what's going to happen at this meeting?"

"No, I'm guessing that we will set a court date or something like that. They called this meeting. I didn't."

We drove in silence. It wasn't awkward but it was tense. I'm sure my mom doesn't know what to say to comfort me. I don't know if there is anything that can be said. This is not something she has any experience with. None of do.

My mom went into the meeting with me which is a good thing. I feel so numb, I'm sure I would miss what was being said. I am going to need her to help me remember everything.

My lawyer was recommended to me by a high school friend, Bill Jennings, that is a civil lawyer in the same law firm. Mr. Braswell is an older man that looks like he enjoys food. I've met with him twice so far. He is a no-nonsense type of man, but he has shown me great compassion.

He has us sit down and surprises me with information of a generous settlement offer. It wasn't so much the money as much as now there will be no court date; this case will be final, finished, over and done. My mother was overjoyed that there wouldn't be a battle, but I was just relieved that it was over. Then the lawyer said a few words that made my heart sink. "I had to offer you this settlement, but I don't think this offer is in your best interest."

"Why?" I'm not sure I was ready for the answer, but I couldn't take the words back.

"This is a no fault settlement, with the nondisclosure clause attached."

"I'll be damned. You have got to be kidding me? Is that why there is a settlement so early? I thought you said we probably wouldn't hear from them for at least 6 months."

It's been 5 months, 2 week, and 3 days since my life fell apart, and now I'm being told to shut up and takeit. Hell no! I tune out the rest of the meeting. My mom just holds my hand and continues to talk to my lawyer. I guess my mom was right, I was going to miss out on something important.

After a few signatures we left. I'm not even sure what I was signing, but my mom assured me this was what needed to be done. I know I did not accept the settlement, so I figure our next step will be court.

I took mom over to say hello to Bill before we left the office. My mom was happy to see him. He showed her pictures of his wife and his two kids. She gushed as most women do about baby pictures. Mom intervened when Bill asked about the case, but overall it was a nice quick visit.

After we left the lawyer's office my mom took me to the doctor. I think if I would have let her she would have gone into the room with me. Most of my visit was routine. They did draw blood for a few tests, mostly because the doctor thought I was anemic. He did prescribe sleeping pills. I have to take them for two weeks to help reset my body clock. He did suggest seeing a counselor instead of medication for what Foster and Michael think is depression. He would prescribe medication if and when he gets a report from the counselor. He did agree with Foster and my brothers to stay active and busy and to try and move on...easier said than done.