The judge picked up his silver pen.

“Arthur and Eleanor Miller are appointed temporary legal guardians of Emma Stevens, effective immediately.”

He stamped the front page of Carl’s petition.

“Furthermore, all assets under Stevens Holdings LLC, including the Oakridge accounts and the vessel Sea Star, are hereby placed under court receivership pending a full audit.”

The wooden gavel hit the sounding block with a sharp crack.

Eleanor reached over and gripped my arm.

At half past three, I walked out into the bright fluorescent light of the courthouse hallway.