“I’m doing everything I can to keep your life safe and steady,” I told him.

Wyatt glanced at Barrett and Paige, then leaned closer. “Dad told us last night that Paige already picked out our new bedrooms in his house.”

Before I could answer, the clerk stepped into the hallway to announce the hearing was resuming.

Part 4 — Shifting Tides

When everyone returned to their seats, the atmosphere had changed. Barrett no longer leaned back in his chair, Paige had stopped whispering, and Douglas spoke with care.

Judge Lawson motioned to me. “Mrs. O’Connell, please clarify these financial documents for the record.”

“I provided the entire founding capital for the enterprise,” I said. “The company was established with my personal inheritance and backed by my individual loan guarantees.