Chapter 35
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The consultation with Attorney Jessica Davis was a masterclass in aggressive, surgical litigation. Sitting in her high-rise office downtown with Lucas by my side, I handed over the folder of evidence regarding the fake reviews, as well as the medical documentation of Chloe's bruised wrist.
"Your mother made a fatal strategic error," Ms. Davis noted, adjusting her sharp glasses as she reviewed the documents. "Defamation is notoriously difficult to prove unless you have concrete digital ties. But since she used her home IP address to post malicious claims against a licensed medical facility, we have her completely dead to rights."
"I want the reviews removed, and I want a strict restraining order preventing her from approaching my clinic or my sister," I stated firmly.
"We will get all of that," Davis promised, typing rapidly on her laptop. "I am drafting an emergency cease and desist order right now. It will include a demand for immediate retraction of all digital statements, accompanied by a draft of a civil lawsuit seeking half a million dollars in financial damages for tortious interference with your business."
"Will she actually have to pay that?" Lucas asked.
"Only if she refuses to comply with the cease and desist," Davis explained with a predatory smile. "Bullies like your mother operate on the assumption that their victims are too scared to fight back. When she sees a federal lawsuit threatening her personal wealth, she will completely fold."
Later that evening, back in the safety of our home, I sat on the edge of Chloe's bed.
"The legal notice is being served tomorrow morning," I told her quietly. "You don't have to run anymore, Chloe."
May you like
Chloe looked up, tears shining in her eyes. "I've spent my whole life trying to be small so she wouldn't notice me. I don't know how to be brave like you, Maya."
"You don't have to be brave all at once," I said, putting my arm around her shoulder. "Sovereignty isn't about never feeling fear. It's about feeling the fear and choosing to protect your peace anyway. We are going to build your life back, piece by piece. Together."
