Eli and Nora argued in whispers about whether a judge was allowed to laugh.

Sophie carried her repaired purple-eared rabbit.

Judge Harrington entered and reviewed the case.

There were the final reports and legal findings, the agency’s recommendation, and the children’s wishes as presented appropriately.

Victoria had explained the process to me repeatedly.

I listened anyway, hardly daring to believe that we had reached it.

When the court granted the adoption, the room did not erupt the way people imagine it might.

For a moment we simply looked at one another.