When he finally signed his name at the bottom, he sat back and said, to nobody in particular, “Thirty-five years married.

First time I’ve ever testified against her.” He squared the pages, added, “Should have done it thirty years ago, before the rot grew,” and handed it to me.

The court granted the ex-parte temporary order that same day.

Protection first, formal hearing within a few weeks.

Orders have to be served on the respondent.

The sheriff’s deputy found my mother where anyone could: at the boutique on a busy Saturday, mid-fitting.