§ 50-16.4. Counsel fees in actions for alimony, postseparation supportAt any time that a dependent spouse would be entitled to alimony pursuant to G.S. 50-16.3A, or postseparation supportpursuant to G.S. 50-16.2A, the court may, upon application of such spouse, enter an order for reasonable counsel fees for the benefit of such spouse, to be paid and secured by the supporting spouse in the same manner as alimony.