“Eli, would you come forward, please?”
The boy walked carefully to the front, still clutching his sister’s pink ribbon.
“Son,” the judge said gently, “tell me what you want.”
Eli looked at his brothers and sisters before answering.
“I just want us to stay together, sir.”
The judge remained silent for a long moment.
He removed his glasses, rubbed the bridge of his nose, and glanced toward Beverly.
“Ms. Beverly,” he said quietly, “based on what you’ve observed over the past three weeks, do you believe this placement deserves a chance?”
The courtroom turned toward her.
Beverly lowered her clipboard.
“When I first reviewed Carter’s application, I had serious concerns,” she admitted. “Five children are a tremendous responsibility for anyone.”
She looked at me, then at the children.
“But I have watched these children with him every day since the emergency placement began. They run to him when they’re frightened. They listen to him. They’re finally beginning to sleep peacefully. Most importantly, they are still together.”
She paused and faced the judge.
“After everything I’ve observed, I believe keeping these children together in Carter’s care is in their best interest. Separating them now would cause them further harm.”
The judge nodded once.
“The state’s request to place these children in separate foster homes is denied.”
No one in the courtroom moved.
“Given the emergency circumstances, the court grants Carter temporary custody, effective immediately, subject to continued supervision, a successful home inspection, and completion of the remaining licensing requirements.”
He looked directly at me.
“I will personally oversee this case until permanent placement is finalized.”
For a heartbeat, the room was completely silent.
Then, I heard a small gasp.
Lila broke free from the court aide’s hand and ran straight toward me.
I dropped to one knee just as she threw her arms around my neck.
“We’re going home?” she whispered.
My throat tightened.
