Chapter 12 - Just Desserts
RPOV - Miami
"STEPHANIE!" Julie took off running towards Steph as she stepped off the plane in Miami. I lightly jogged behind her normally I would've just waited by the car but I missed my Babe. I gathered them both into a hug when I caught up to them a few feet away from the bottom of the stairs. After a few moments we let go but I kept my hand on Steph's back. When she stood up properly I moved to grab her face and pull her into a deep kiss.
"Ewww. Get a Room" Julie snickered like a normal teenage would seeing her parents makeout. Steph giggled into my mouth before pulling away and grabbing Julie's hand and walking back to the car. I chuckled to myself before grabbing Steph's bag and following. Everyone got situated in the SUV and we made our way to my house. This was the first time I would be showing Steph one of my houses and I was nervous.
"Babe. I missed you. How was your flight?"
"Carlos." She looked over and smiled at me as she entwined our hands over the center console. "I missed you too. It was good you know how much I hate flying but the pilot kept us steady. Flying private is much better than commercial."
"What's the plan now that Stephanie's here, Dad?" Julie asked.
"Well first we are going to the house where Marisol is preparing breakfast for all of us. Then the lawyers, my accountant, and the financial auditors will be arriving at the house at approx. 10. We will begin to go over everything that they've dug up about the Martine's activities and spending and you Julie will work with Justin to go over your testimony that you will be giving to the Judge. Justin is also bringing the documents that you need to change your name like we talked about. Then tomorrow when Rachel and Ron get home we will present them with the court order and custody papers. I expect the following days will be spent in family and possibly civil court. Thankfully the lawyers were able to get everything expedited due to my high military ranking otherwise we could've been dealing with this for months."
"Sounds like a plan, Dad."
"How are you doing with all of this Jules? I know this can be a big change for someone your age." Steph asked Julie.
"I'm doing okay. Sometimes I get really sad and other times I'm angry that my parents don't seem to love me. I also feel guilty sometimes like I'm a burden on you and Dad and that maybe I'm just better off staying where I am." Julie explained she hadn't opened up to me about this so I was grateful that Stephanie was here.
"Julie, Let me be the first to say that no matter what you are loved by me, by your dad, and even though you haven't spent a lot of time with them you are loved by the Range men and your Dad's family. Next, All of those emotions are perfectly normal for this type of situation but you need to remember that none of this is your fault and you could never be a burden. In fact I'm over the moon that there's a chance that you get to come live with us. Finally, let me tell you a little bit about myself. I've spent a lot of my life being ridiculed or punished for things that were no fault of my own. Unfortunately there's only so much you can do to control the actions of others. I've spent a lot of time living in denial of this and because of that I forced myself to suffer by trying to fit into the mold that everyone else wanted me to be. The problem was everyone wanted me to be something different. Once I realized that their opinions didn't matter and took back my life I was able to start flying. Your dad helped me see that the people that matter are the ones that love you for being yourself." She squeezed my hand before finishing her lecture. "So Julie don't be afraid to feel sad, or angry, or even guilty sometimes you have every right to those feelings but at then end of the day when you're looking at yourself in the mirror make sure to ask remind yourself that you are perfect just the way you are and anyone who can't see that isn't worth your time, energy, or feelings."
I was amazed by Steph's speech. Before I left on my mission I would have not thought it would be possible to see this side of my Babe. I always knew she had it in her and once she made peace with her denial that she would be stronger than any of my men but the more time we wasted I was becoming more doubtful. She was my Wonder Woman. I pulled our joined hands up to my mouth and gave it a kiss.
We pulled into the driveway and I put in the code for the gate to open. Julie jumped out almost before the car came into park apparently she was quite hungry. I went around the car and took Steph's hand in one arm and her luggage in the other.
"Wow so this is the Batcave"
"Not really, this is just a house. The closest thing I've ever had as a batcave is in New Jersey and if you're an extra good girl you may get to see it." I winked at her and then proceeded to give her a tour of the house. The first floor was mostly open concept with the living room, kitchen, and a dining area all open. However, there was an office library that was closed off and another more formal dining area that was also closed off. We took the staircase to the second floor that had a balcony that looked over the great room. There were four bedrooms and 3 bathrooms on this floor including Julie's room and three guest spaces. I occasionally let my family stay here for vacations or when they were visiting my Abuela so the space was much needed. On the third floor I had the attic converted into a master suite so the real master could be used for an additional guest room. The new master had vaulted ceilings with wood beams and the walls were painted a light blue color. There were his and hers closets and I had Marisol outfit the hers side with all things that Steph would like based on Ella's recommendations. The master bath had a large jacuzzi tub, walk-in shower, double sinks, and a built-in vanity already equipped with Steph's hair and makeup products. We took the stairs back down to the first floor where I showed her the pool, the gardens, an outdoor barbeque area, and at the back of the fence a gate that led out to a private beach. The backyard also had a pool house that was turned into Marisol and her husband's home. The basement held a game room, a gym, another large living space with a bar, storage with a laundry room, and the bathroom.
When we got back upstairs Julie was at the kitchen bar talking to Marisol about her math class.
"Speaking of school, will you be able to finish the year online?" Stephanie asked.
"Yep! Dad talked to the principal and got me enrolled in the school's online courses for the rest of the year should everything with the courts go well." Julie Responded. Stephanie introduced herself to Marisol who seemed to immediately take to Steph like pretty much everyone does. I got two plates filled with the breakfast casserole, turkey sausage, and fruit put together. We ate everything on our plates making light conversation about Julie's favorite things to do in Miami. Stephanie promised that we would come back and do them in the future if we didn't have time before we returned to Trenton.
At 1000 exactly three cars of lawyers and accounts pulled up to the gates. I buzzed them in and went to open the door. Stephanie and Julie helped Marisol set up the formal dining room with notepads, pens, water, and a platter of mini muffins. We spent the next 6 hours going over all of the documents, Julie's testimony, and signing documents that were going to be presented to the judge. I agreed to meet Justin, his brother Jake, and my accountant at the Martine's at 0900. Their cruise got back tonight so they should be home. Stephanie and Julie would be staying here in the morning and Ronaldo, my cousin who ran Rangeman Miami and Lester who was flying down this afternoon would be coming to stay with them.
I was furious that no one had told me about the problems with the Martine's but it turns out that Julie's normal body guards were being paid under the table by Rachel to look the other way and lie to Ronaldo when they gave their reports. Ronaldo immediately put them in the holding cells in Miami and he and Silvio his SIC determined that they were angry they were put on babysitting duty despite being some of the most tenured employees. Now, I knew I would have to rotate the men in Trenton so they wouldn't grow to resent me for the duty similar to how I rotated bomber duty, that was more their request though. I didn't know all of the Miami men super well so I allowed Ronaldo to assign the duty but I guess that was an oversight on my part. The duty was also a new addition to the Miami office tasks since Julie got kidnapped by Scrog.
After watching a movie together Julie went upstairs to read before bed.
"Babe, thank you for coming down. I can't tell you how much it means to me to have you here. I also appreciate your willingness to open up and be here for Julie. We talked a lot this week getting to know each other but even after a week we still didn't hit the level of depth you two had within minutes."
"It's not a problem Carlos. I love being here and I was really just being honest with Julie. I see a lot of myself in her so if I can lead her to a life where she doesn't spend as much time in denial as I did then I will consider my job successful. Now why don't you tell me how you are."
"I'm doing as good as I can be. I'm nervous about the confrontation and the court hearings but I know that our case is solid. But we have lots of time to talk about this." Then I slammed my lips onto hers claiming what I've been craving the entire week I've been here. Steph wrapped her legs around my waist and I carried her up to the bedroom.
We let the passion take over and soon enough I couldn't hold back. I pushed myself into her and made love to my Babe. After we fell over the edge together we got ready for bed going one more round before calling it lights out.
I woke up at my normal time and got a workout in before showering and eating breakfast. Julie and Stephanie came downstairs a little after 8 and found me reviewing and double checking everything.
"Good luck today Dad." Julie told me as she climbed in my lap to give me a hug. "Everything is going to work out, I just know it." She got up and scurried off to the kitchen.
"You'll call if you need anything? Even if you just need to talk to me to calm yourself down, promise?"
"Babe. I Promise." I kissed her gently before grabbing my phone off the counter to let Ronaldo and Lester in the gates. I exchanged pleasantries with them when they entered the house, said my final goodbyes, and then got in my SUV to drive over to the Martines. I waited about five blocks away for the Thompsons and the accountant to park before we all got into my car to drive over to the Martines.
The house was quiet but all the cars were in the driveway so they were definitely home. I ran the doorbell and a few minutes later Rachel opened the door. She looked different but based on what we found yesterday I wasn't surprised.
"Ranger. Where's Julie?"
"At my house. I have a lot of things we need to talk about."
"What do you mean she's at your house? She's not yours to keep you know. You gave up your rights to her. Now leave and come back with my daughter or I'll call the police." She tried to slam the door but I had already placed my boot in the doorway so she couldn't. I pushed the door back open and the four of us entered the house.
"Where's Ron?"
"He's upstairs getting Olivia and Ron Jr. ready for the day."
"Call him down here, this involves him too." She yelled up the stairs for him and a few minutes later he came down the stairs.
"Ranger. How can we help you? Where's Julie?" He sounded far too cheerful.
"At my house. Listen, I'll cut to the chase. This is just a courtesy call." I instructed Justin to hand over the papers. "Julie has told me everything that has been going on with her and how you have been neglecting her and taken advantage of the money I have been sending you. I am suing you for custody of my daughter." I motioned for the accountant to hand over the other file. "Additionally, I am suing you for all the money I have paid you over the last 13 years and in about 30 seconds you will both be arrested for tax fraud and money laundering. Olivia and Ron Jr. will be taken into custody of the Miami CPS. I will see you in court." With that I turned foot and opened the front door to reveal 4 miami cops and the CPS agent who would complete this morning's events. Justin took both of the folders back into our hands before Ron was handcuffed. We got back into the car and drove to the courthouse.
We waited about 4 hours before the judge was ready to see our case. Lester had driven Stephanie and Julie to the court and arrived two hours before the judge called for order to give her testimony. Today we would be doing the custody case first followed by the joint civil case. Then tomorrow Ron and Rachel would stand separately for the criminal charges against them.
We all entered the courtroom and took our spots on the benches behind the table for the lawyers on the prosecution side. The defense side only had two lawyers compared to our six. Ron and Rachel were brought into the courtroom both handcuffed and shackled at the ankles. The judge entered last and started the proceedings.
"Mr. Manoso you are asking the court to grant you permanent custody of your biological daughter who you previously gave up your rights to. Is that correct?"
"Yes, Your Honor."
"Mr. and Mrs. Martine the evidence shows several instances of neglect on your part including forgetting Julie at school, friends houses and even the local grocery store three times. I also have photos of the living conditions that Julie has been forced into following the conception of your unborn baby. Finally, I have heard Julie's testimony in which she described many instances where you neglected her basic needs and general well being. What do you have to say about these accusations?
"Your honor. My clients do not agree with these accusations and would like to contest the custody petition. They have been nothing but good parents to Julie and love her very much. Mr. Manoso is not fit to be a parent, he doesn't love her or care for her and he lives a lifestyle not suitable for a child."
"Is that so?" The Judge asked, shuffling over her papers. "I have on good authority from several high ranking military officials that Mr. Manoso is an outstanding citizen and soldier. It also states that he has retired from active duty beyond occasional training of new recruits. I also have the bank statements proving that he has been paying you for Julie since giving up his rights even though he was not legally required to. I also have several character witnesses from his employees, family, and friends stating how much Mr. Manoso loves Julie and would be a good father including an instance where he actually allowed himself to be shot to save her life. Would you still like to continue with this line of defense?" The defense attorney was glaring daggers at Ron who clearly didn't tell his coworker how strong of a case we had.
"No your honor. The defense asks for a 30 minute recess."
"Request denied. I have seen enough evidence including that of what was logged by CPS after this morning's arrests and have made my decision. Captain Ricardo Carlos Manoso you have won legal custody of your daughter Julie Rosa Martine. I have also granted your request to move Julie out of state. Rachel Martine and Ron Martine I have denied your countersuit and have terminated your parental rights to Julie Rosa Martine. Court will now take a 5 minute recess. When we return Judge Matthew Snell will take over the proceedings for the civil case Manoso vs. Martine." The judge banged her gavel before exiting the chambers.
Stephanie took Julie to the restroom during the break and shook hands with my lawyers thanking them for their work so far. I briefly glanced over to the defense side. Ron was arguing with the lawyers who worked for the same law firm he did. Rachel looked angry but mostly just looked relieved as she rubbed her hand over her stomach. Somehow I think she was actually happy with the outcome.
Judge Snell entered the chambers and immediately dug into the formalities of the process. The prosecution went first and hammered through all the evidence. We presented evidence that the $7000 plus Ron's monthly income of just over $9000 was all spent on their house, clothes for Rachel or at toddler or baby stores that wouldn't sell clothes that fit Julie, several rounds of plastic surgery which included Rachel's medical record, new high end cars for both Ron and Rachel, and several vacations mostly for two people. We also presented the contract I had Rachel sign when I started making payments over $1500 a month that stated that the money needed to be used for Julie's tuition, clothes for Julie, and any activities Julie wanted to do and that all remaining money be placed in a college fund for Julie. Currently the only money in the college fund was the additional 50k I had added in addition over the years. I was thankful that I had possession over the fund as I'm sure it would've been empty if I had given them full rights.
The lead defense lawyer was sweating through his jacket the longer our lawyers kept presenting evidence that the money was not being handled appropriately. By the time the prosecution rested the defense only presented that they did take of Julie's need for at least the first 5 years of her life which aligned with Ron Jr's birth. I didn't care if I only got paid back for 8 years instead of 13 the money didn't really matter to me but I also wasn't going to let them get away with it.
Judge Snell called for a 30 minute recess and returned to his office to review the presentations and make his decision. When we returned to court he awarded me four and fourteen thousand dollars which was a reimbursement of the last 8 years of my payments to the Martines. After the proceedings we all gathered at a local Italian restaurant that was Julie's favorite to celebrate the wins of the day. Justin even presented Julie with the official papers notarized with her official name change to Julie Rosa Manoso.
We didn't attend the criminal proceedings but we already knew everything other than what the outcome would be. In our searches we discovered that Ron and Rachel had been acquiring large amounts of money beyond my monthly payments and Ron's salary and not reporting it in their taxes. When we turned over the information to the IRS they discovered that both Ron and Rachel had been involved in bribery and extortion of several of Ron's clients and embezzlement from the law firm Ron worked at by billing himself for hours he never actually worked by creating fake cases and bribing a local judge to sign off on the time in court.
Justin and Jake attended the proceedings and reported back to us that Ron had been charged for money laundering, tax fraud, and embezzlement which resulted in a 58 year jail sentence. He ended up having to represent himself when his defense lawyers quit on the spot when the prosecution added the embezzlement charges. Rachel was charged similarly but got a lighter sentence of 32 years as she was mostly just an accomplice. Overall they would also have to pay fines that summed to just over 12 million dollars. They also informed us that Ron Jr. and Olivia were being placed with Ron's sister who was appalled by his brother's actions but vowed to take great care of his children which made Stephanie happy since she hated the idea of them growing up in foster care.
We planned on spending the rest of the week in Miami and then moving Julie to Trenton. Julie wanted to spend one last week at school so she could say goodbye to her teachers and a few friends who still talked to her despite the last few months. She was surprisingly okay with leaving the school behind but said it wouldn't be that much different next year anyways since she was starting high school either way.
SPOV - Trenton
After a week of sun, enjoying the beach, swimming in the ocean, and doing all the things Julie loved about Miami we were on our final day here. The day of the criminal case we opted to skip being in court and went over to the Martines to pack up Julie's things from the house. She didn't have much but we were able to find boxes of things from Julie's childhood, pictures, and her baby book buried in the basement storage room so we made sure to take those too. Julie wanted a few pictures of her siblings so we took a few from the frames in the hallway as well.
The next day we met up with Ron's sister, Kim, so Julie could say goodbye to her siblings. It was an emotional affair but neither Ron Jr. or Olivia seemed to grasp what was happening around them yet so it wasn't too bad. We gave Kim our contact info and told her we would set up time for Julie to see her siblings and to call anytime they wanted to talk to Julie.
Lester took all of the boxes home on the third day and promised to deliver them to Ella to complete Julie's room set up back home. Yesterday we spent the day with Abuela Rosa at the beach. I was nervous at first but we instantly got along and at one point when Ranger and Julie were playing soccer she took the time to thank me for opening my heart to not just Carlos but Julie as well. She warned me that should I do anything to hurt either of them she would haunt me but she also noted she didn't think that would happen. It was just something Abuela's were supposed to say to the suitors of their family members. It made me laugh when I thought about all the curses Bella Morelli had tried to put on me over the years.
The plane landed at the private airstrip in Trenton and Tank met us at the airport. We got into the SUV and they got into the other and we drove back to Rangeman. Tank almost commanded that we needed to stop by the control room before heading up to the apartment. When we got up there they had decorated the floor with a big welcome home banner for Julie and Ella had made lots of yummy desserts like brownies, cookies, and a decorated sheet cake. It was good to be home and I couldn't wait to get to know Julie better. I just hoped that eventually she would accept me as her mom.