His thumb turned the silver cuff link on his left sleeve, the Whitmore family crest catching the harsh glare of the overhead lights.

His attorney stood before Judge Arlene Miller and placed a thick stack of motion papers on the wooden bench.

“My client’s six-month-old twins were taken from him on Christmas Eve without warning or due process,” the attorney said.

“We’re asking for an immediate emergency order for temporary custody.”

Daniel Harris waited three full seconds before unbuttoning his suit jacket.

He didn’t raise his voice or look in Cole’s direction.

“Mrs.