The family services room at the courthouse smelled of lemon cleaner and soggy coffee filters, and Ms.

Albright had a stack of forms squared on the table before I even sat down.

She didn’t waste time on small talk.

“Major Nolan, the open neglect finding from last night’s report means Lily can’t stay in the home until the structural and safety violations are fixed and a hearing is held.”

Captain Douglas had his pen out.

“My client has full temporary custody under Judge Vance’s order.”

“Judge Vance’s order covers parental fitness,” Ms.