“This is the unredacted original record 114, kept in my firm’s active files since October 1990,” Howard said.

“It matches the missing microfiche entry number exactly, and it’s a circuit court order awarding full sole physical custody of Mara Rowan to Claire Rowan.”

Gene clenched and unclenched his right fist against the armrest of his wooden chair, his knuckles going white against the varnish.

“Ms.

Rowan,” Howard asked, turning back to the witness box, “did you ever give up your parental rights?”

Claire looked straight across the aisle at Gene.