The judge’s signature approved the appointment.

My signatures on applications and acknowledgments were different things; I had not signed an order into existence myself.

At Marjorie’s office later, she reviewed it with me again.

“It gives you authority to make the ordinary decisions their care requires, and responsibility for making them.”

“Does Elliott have any part in that?”

“He hasn’t been appointed their guardian.

An engagement doesn’t give him authority to undo your appointment.”

“What if he asks the court?”