Social Worker's Orders

My life was over. My divorce against my husband Rocco would never end. In the ongoing court war for the kids, he called in a referral on me to Child Protective Services. Strangers showed up at my house, looking in my refrigerator, searching my dresser drawers, peering through closets, making me take drug tests…. Meanwhile my ex lay in his new house with his new woman, while he demanded I pay alimony.

My social worker hated me, and just before her final report was due, she went on maternity leave. Great.

In walked her replacement– a tall, iced glass of water. All alpha male, his sea-green eyes turned to me as he set down his notepad. “You’re so busy trying to be everyone's hero. Tonight, save yourself.”

I had forgotten what this kind of fire in me felt like. I was uncertain and afraid. Nevertheless, I submitted.