Judge Vance studied the raised state seal in the bottom corner of the affidavit for almost two full minutes.

He laid the 1990 custody ruling Howard had submitted right beside it under the bright lamp.

“Mr.

Hayes,” Judge Vance said, his gravelly voice ringing off the high plaster ceiling.

“Yes, Your Honor?” Hayes said, rising stiffly.

“Did your client know this birth affidavit was being kept in his business safe?” Judge Vance asked.

Hayes looked down at Gene, who was staring straight ahead at the polished floorboards.

“My client acted to protect his late brother’s estate affairs as he understood them,” Hayes said.