The judge struck the gavel.
“Mrs. Carter, sit down.”
She obeyed.
She knew anger would only make Daniel look right.
Daniel did not look at her, but the tiny curve near his mouth told her enough.
Then the judge turned to the boys.
The room seemed to hold its breath.
“Lucas. Mason,” she said gently. “I need you to be honest. Where do you feel safest? With your mother or your father?”
Silence filled the courtroom.
Mason shifted behind his brother.
Lucas stepped forward.
At nine years old, he suddenly looked far too grown.
He looked at his father first.
Not with simple fear.
With understanding.
Like he was carrying something no child should have to carry.
Then he faced the judge.
“Your Honor,” he said quietly, “before you decide, there’s something you should know.”
The room froze.
Emily felt her heart stop for a beat.
Daniel’s posture changed at once.
“It’s important,” Lucas continued. “And my mom doesn’t even know yet.”
A folder slipped from the attorney’s table, papers scattering across the floor.
No one bent to pick them up.
Lucas reached into his pocket.
Daniel half rose from his chair.
“Lucas,” he snapped.
Too fast.
Too harsh.
