ER [wlw]

Chapter 27

When I step out I find Amber and Erik standing at the side of the door. Amber looking nervous, while I can't really read Erik.

They notice me and Bellamy the moment we come out. "What did he say?" Erik ask.

I clench my jaw as I set a glare on Amber. "He said that Amber's boyfriend broke his arm and that they abuse him physically in the regular. You're a disgusting person, I hope you never see him again."

"He's lying!" She yells.

"Sure, we'll see if CPS thinks so." I fake a smile.

She glares at me. "I'm going in there to see my son."

But I step in front of the door, leaving Bellamy where I was standing. "You're not going anywhere near him."

She laughs. "You think you can stop me."

Before I can reply Erik steps in between me and her. "She won't have to, I will."

"How could you? He's a child." He whispers.

I roll my eyes. "I'm surprised you care, you don't treat him any better. You abuse him with words."

I see his shoulders tense up. "Me yelling at him once in a while is not the same."

"You didn't pay attention to him though did you? If you did you would have noticed." I glare at the back of his head,

He takes in a deep breath. "You're right." His hand comes up to rub his face.

The CPS worker clears her throat behind me, so I step out of the way and return to my baby's side. The workers expression is grim but professional. She glances between us, her gaze lingering on Amber. "I've spoken with Will, and based on his statements, I have to notify you that law enforcement is on their way. Amber, you're under investigation for neglect and failure to protect your son. We also have evidence suggesting physical abuse at the hands of you and your partner. This is a serious matter."

Amber's face turns pale, her mouth opening as if to protest, but no words come out. She glances at Erik, then at me, her expression shifting from shock to rage. "You can't do this!" She snaps. "He's my son!"

The CPS worker doesn't flinch. "This is about Will's safety. Until the investigation is complete, we're placing him in temporary care." She turns to Erik. "As his father, you're the first choice for placement. Are you willing to take him in?"

Erik runs a hand over his face, avoiding Amber's furious glare. "I... I don't think that's the best idea." He mutters, his voice strained. I'm surprised but not at the same time. "I think Emma should take him. She's his sister."

"You can't be serious!" Amber screeches.

We all ignore her. "Ms. Parker, would you be willing to take temporary custody of Will while we investigate? There will be paperwork to fill out, and we'll need to conduct a home visit, but if everything checks out, he could go home with you tonight."

I nod without hesitation. "Yes, of course. He'll be safe with me."

Amber's face twists with fury as she takes a step toward me. "I'm not letting this bitch take my son!" She hisses, showing her true colors, but before she can say another word, two police officers approach.

"Amber Taylor?" One of them asks firmly. "We need you to come with us for questioning regarding child endangerment and neglect."

Amber freezes, then tries to argue, her voice shrill. "This is a mistake! He fell! I didn't do anything wrong!"

The officer cuts her off. "You can explain everything at the station. Please turn around."

As they cuff her, Amber's glare lands on me, her voice venomous. "You think you're better than me? You... You fucking mutt!"