PART 13

Weeks passed, and the case entered the slower world of hearings, reports, and deadlines.

There was no single afternoon when everyone learned every fact and the matter ended.

Police and prosecutors reviewed evidence.

Lawyers debated records.

Courts considered the allegations against the adults and what arrangements would best protect Emma.

Miriam reminded me repeatedly that my responsibility was to care for my granddaughter, not to rehearse a verdict before one had been reached.

Mark contacted me through his attorney to complain that I was turning Emma against him.