My husband files for divorce, and my 6-year old son asks the judge: ‘May I show you something that Mom doesn’t know about, Your Honor?’ The judge nodded. When the video started, the entire courtroom froze in silence.

PART 13

By the second custody hearing, the room felt different.

There were fewer spectators, more folders, and no performance from Eleanor.

Julian sat beside Mercer with his hands flat on the table.

Chloe was absent.

Grace sat beside me, and for the first time since the petition I did not feel as though I had to catch every falling piece by myself.

Judge Thorne reviewed the child advocate’s updated recommendations.