“You already took what mattered.”
Vanessa’s smile returned, smaller and more private this time.
Then Judge Whitaker closed the folder in front of her and folded her hands.
“Before I issue any ruling,” she said, “there is something this court must address.”
The room seemed to hold its breath.
“Before today’s hearing began, I met a little girl in the hallway. She was crying near the vending machines.” The judge’s voice remained calm, but each word landed heavily. “She whispered something to me about what her father and the mean lady had done.”
Daniel’s face lost its color.
The judge turned to the bailiff.
“Please bring the child into the courtroom.”
Vanessa’s laughter was gone completely, as if it had never existed.
Daniel gripped the edge of the table until his knuckles turned white.
