Chapter 7: Formal Tracks
Claire opened two parallel tracks and kept them cleanly separated.
The divorce and protective order moved on the family-court calendar. Brandon’s counsel attempted early settlement language that included “mutual responsibility for household finances” and a request that my mother be excluded from any future contact. Claire rejected both. The medical documentation of the strikes and the preserved ultimatum texts remained attached to the filings. Temporary support and exclusive use arguments were reserved until the financial picture was clearer.
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On the second track she engaged a forensic review of the joint account and the related transfers. Subpoenas and formal bank requests went out for the full twelve-month history, device logs where available, and any linked accounts that had received the moved funds. I signed every authorization she placed in front of me and asked no questions that would slow the process.
Brandon’s messages shifted from demand to negotiation to silence once service was complete. Silence was preferable. I did not fill it.
