CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTY - When Everything Falls Apart

As Kayla ran off to play on the swings, Deonna caught Dr. Chen's thoughtful gaze. She couldn't help but wonder what the advocate was writing in that ever-present notebook of hers. The visits with Agnes and Richard were equally stressful. Deonna and Logan had to stand by and watch as their daughter was showered with gifts and attention from the couple who were trying to take her away. It took every ounce of self-control not to intervene when Agnes made thinly veiled comments about providing Kayla with a "proper" family environment. Through it all, Kayla remained blissfully unaware of the true stakes of the situation. She chattered happily about her days at school, her favorite toys, and her dreams of becoming a veterinarian when she grew up. Her innocence was both a blessing and a heartache for Deonna and Logan, who carried the weight of their uncertain future. As the weeks wore on, the strain began to show in Deonna and Logan's relationship. The constant stress, the fear of saying o