This was a question Jordan Smith simply couldn’t answer.
After leaving The Smith Group, he drove straight to Lillian’s elementary school.
It was dismissal time, and Principal Larry Adams stood by the front gate with a few teachers, making sure the kids got to their parents safely.
Jordan approached and said, “I’m here to pick up Lillian.”
Larry gave him a polite but distant look, refusing to call Lillian over. “Sorry, Mr. Smith, but school policy says only registered guardians can pick up students.”
Jordan’s jaw tightened. His presence was commanding—cold, almost intimidating.
“I’m Lillian’s father. I’m her legal guardian.”
Larry shook his head. “When Lillian was enrolled, Ms. Davis was the only guardian listed on the form. Unless she notifies us, I can’t let Lillian leave with anyone else.”
Jordan’s frustration was obvious.
Camila Davis didn’t list me? Seriously?
He pulled out his phone, ready to call her, but right then, Camila herself arrived.
She immediately noticed Jordan—a tall, striking figure among the crowd of parents, handsome enough to turn heads, especially among the moms.
Camila, though, frowned and cut straight to the point. “What are you doing here?”
Jordan pocketed his phone and snapped, “I’m here to pick up Lillian from school. Why didn’t you put me on the guardian list, Camila? I’m her father! Do I need permission just to take my own daughter home?”
With all the parents and kids streaming by, Camila had no interest in causing a scene. She almost laughed at how ridiculous he sounded.
“Why would I put someone who doesn’t care about her well-being as her guardian? Jordan, you’ve been absent from the start. Don’t act like you suddenly care.
You might have the right, but ask yourself—do you actually care about her safety? You don’t even notice how much she’s changed. How can you talk about having a say in her life?
It’s taken so much for Lillian to get this far. She’s still adjusting to everything. So please, give us some space. Don’t just show up and think you get to make decisions for her.”
Camila’s words stung. Jordan’s face darkened, but he had no comeback.
Seeing him at a loss, she didn’t waste another second; she walked over and led Lillian away.
Before leaving, she flashed a grateful smile at Principal Adams.
That evening, Susan made a feast—roast chicken, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and all the fixings.
Camila, who rarely cooked, even made a couple of dishes to welcome their guest, Sarah Brown.
As they sat down, Camila invited Susan to join them. “Come eat with us, Susan. There’s way too much food for just us.”
Susan looked flustered, hands waving. “Oh no, I couldn’t! I’m just the help, ma’am.”
Camila gently pulled her over. “Susan, this isn’t the Smith family mansion. We’re not big on hierarchy here. From now on, you eat with us.”


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