“I’m signing temporary sole legal and physical custody papers in your name today.

You’ll get the certified final decree from the clerk’s office downstairs.”

“Thank you very much, Your Honor,” Michael said.

“The child stays entirely in your care,” Vance said.

“Any contact with the mother will be closely supervised by this court at an approved visitation center.

There are no exceptions.”

Michael looked at the red ledger lying closed on his table.

Four months of careful records, timestamps and saved receipts had done exactly what they were meant to do.