I Was 29 and Single When I Fought to Keep Five Siblings Together. The Judge Asked Why, and My Answer Changed Everything.

He reminded everyone that the children’s long-term legal status had to be addressed carefully and that temporary placement wasn’t the same as adoption.

When we left, Victoria squeezed my shoulder.

‘One careful step at a time,’ she said.

I understood.

That afternoon we flew the yellow kite again, and I did not tell Lucas the rest of his life was settled.

I told him we’d make dinner together and that I’d see him at breakfast.

He looked relieved by the smallness of that promise.

PART 13