Chapter 7
I attended the hearing by video from my hospital bed.
My neck was still bruised.
My body still hurt.
My baby was in my arms.
Patricia Vance appeared on screen in cream silk, pearls, and fake tears.
She looked like a grieving grandmother from a campaign ad.
“Emily is not well,” she told the judge. “My son is terrified for the baby.”
Sarah played the hospital recording.
Marcus’s voice filled the courtroom.
Just reminding her who’s in charge.
Then Patricia’s attorney tried to object.
The judge overruled him.
Sarah played the next clip.
Harrison’s text appeared on the screen.
Do not let her leave with the baby.
Patricia’s face changed.
Not enough for strangers.
Enough for me.
Sarah spoke calmly.
“My client was assaulted hours after childbirth. The petitioner’s family attempted to remove assets from her trust and now seeks custody based on fabricated claims.”
Patricia dabbed at dry eyes.
“That is cruel speculation.”
Then Dad stepped into view.
Patricia saw him.
Her mask slipped.
“Thomas.”
Dad leaned toward the microphone.
“Hello, Patricia.”
The judge asked, “You know Mrs. Vance?”
Dad nodded.
“She delivered the envelope that made my wife get in the car the night she died.”
Patricia went white.
I stopped breathing.
“What envelope?”
Dad looked at me through the screen.
“I didn’t know until later.”
Patricia stood.
“This is outrageous.”
Judge Reed, who had joined as witness counsel, placed a document on the screen.
“Your Honor, I can verify Thomas Lane reported Patricia Vance’s involvement in 1996. The report disappeared.”
The custody petition was denied.
Patricia was ordered to remain away from Lily.
As the hearing ended, she looked into the camera.
Not at Sarah.
Not at Dad.
At me.
May you like
And mouthed two words.
Ask Victor.
