Chapter 13: The Legal Battle for Family
One morning, Julien met his family attorney, Maître Dupont, in his study. Several thick legal folders lay across the desk.
"Mr. Vance, the legal paperwork is complete," Dupont said, taking off his spectacles. "Claire has already signed her consent. If you sign here, you will formally become the legal guardian and adoptive father of Leo and Theo, sharing full parental rights with Claire."
Julien looked down at the documents. For a man who had avoided personal attachments for over four decades out of fear of loss, his pen didn't hesitate for a fraction of a second. He signed his name with firm, elegant strokes.
Later that evening, Julien sat in the living room by the roaring fireplace. Leo and Theo were playing board games on the carpet while Claire poured herbal tea.
"Boys," Julien called out gently.
They looked up.
"Starting today, you don't have to call me Mr. Julien anymore," he said, his voice carrying a slight, nervous tremor. "Only if you want to, of course."
Theo didn't hesitate. He scrambled across the rug and jumped straight into Julien's lap, wrapping his small arms around his neck. "Can I call you Dad?"
Julien tightened his arms around the boy, his eyes shining with tears. "I would be honored, Theo."
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Leo walked over, placing a hand on Julien’s shoulder, a bright, tearful grin on his face. "Thanks, Dad."
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