“No restitution has been accepted,” I said.

“They want a private guardian ad litem assigned to Toby,” Marcus said.

“Someone paid directly by Charles’s company.”

“That petition will be formally contested,” I said.

Marcus looked up from his legal pad, his eyebrows drawing together.

“You talk like a defense attorney, Valerie,” he said.

“I understand how proper representation works,” I said, keeping my tone measured.

“I want you to file an emergency appearance as Toby’s independent advocate before five o’clock today.”