“This is a temporary legal authorization for emergency guardianship,” my father said, spreading the pages over the flat hood of his truck.

“It gives me formal authority to speak for Sadie in court if Trevor tries to get a protective order against you.”

I looked at the black outline of the pines along the back fence.

“If I sign this, I’m handing my sole parental control over to you.”

“You’re putting up a wall between your husband and your child,” he said, his voice dropping into the quiet rhythm he used when he commanded his brigade.

“Trevor can’t bargain with me.