Quote 7
"Your mother is doing great and sends her love. Your father has filed a lawsuit to have the abuse charges against him dropped. He's also filed for your custody."
"You mean he wants to take me away from my mom?"
"I think it's a matter of pride. He thinks he can always get his way and doesn't want anyone or anything to win out over him." (26.39-41)
Cole's dad wants custody of him, but that doesn't mean he loves or wants his son around. Even Garvey recognizes this for what it is—a power play—and he's not going to let Cole go back to that abusive household.
Quote 8
"It's not about supper," said Garvey. "It's about the chip on your shoulder. You still think life is a free ride. You're still blaming the world for everything and looking for the easiest way to get by. It's only been two days, and already you've got your attitude back." (19.17)
Garvey sees right through all of Cole's lies and deception. He knows that Cole's attitude means he hasn't changed and still blames everyone else for his problems instead of accepting responsibility.