I wanted to laugh. Or scream. I had evidence: messages, bank statements, nighttime absences, a secret account I didn’t even know existed. But I was told to stay calm, to let the process take its course.

The judge’s face remained neutral. A neutrality that makes you feel like you’re disappearing.

Then Harper moved.

She raised her hand.

Time stopped.

She stood up, straight, her gaze serious, her voice trembling but brave.
“— Your Honor… may I show you something that Mom doesn’t know?”

A heavy silence filled the room.

Caleb turned sharply.
“— Harper, sit down.”

She didn’t obey.