CHAPTER NINETY ONE – THE NEW NORMAL

Deonna felt her heart sink. A year seemed like an eternity. Her lawyer, Barry Fish, leaned in to whisper, "This is standard procedure, Deonna. It gives both parties time to really consider their decision." Judge Harding continued, "During this separation period, you will live apart and divide assets as agreed upon by your lawyers. Regarding custody of your daughter, Kayla, I'm implementing a temporary joint custody arrangement. Mr. Maine will have visitation rights every other weekend and one evening per week." Logan's face showed a mix of relief and disappointment at the custody arrangement. Deonna kept her expression neutral, even as her mind raced with the implications of the judge's decision. "Additionally," the judge added, "I'm ordering both of you to attend co-parenting counseling sessions. It's crucial that you learn to communicate effectively for the sake of your child." As the judge finalized her ruling, Deonna felt a strange sense of limbo. It wasn't the clean break she