“David McCormack. The kids’ maternal uncle.”
I immediately turn to Seth. His face is pale, the expression of someone who has seen a ghost from the past, his nervous fingers still intertwined.
It takes me a few seconds to realise that this witness can only do us harm.
“Your Honour, I was not aware of this new witness.”
“Come closer,” the judge calls to both of us.
“Your Honour, the list must be provided to the other party in advance.”
“Mr McCormack only became available today, Your Honour.”
“And where has he been hiding all this time?” I ask, a hint of sarcasm in my voice.
“He only came out this morning from the Rehab where he voluntarily checked himself in.” The lawyer hands a document to the judge.
I slowly turn to look at Seth, his eyes filled with tears as he mimics an “I’m sorry.” Then, the judge declares the witness valid, and the feeling of having just lost everything, not just this case, washes over me.
Rowan
“Can you tell us the nature of your relationship with Mr Graham?” The opposing lawyer asks his witness.
“We had an affair.”
I clench my fists on the table.
“So the nature of the relationship was…”
“Sexual,” he says without blinking.
“And can you tell us how you met?”
“We met at my sister Jillian’s wedding.”
“Please, continue.”
“Your Honour!” I stand up. “I don’t see how my client’s past relationships have anything to do with his parenting skills.”
“The nature of the witness’ relationship with Mr Graham defines his personality, Your Honour.”
“Sit down, Mr Kennedy,” he says. “We haven’t heard anything yet.”
I do as the judge says.
“Don’t overdo it,” the judge warns the opposing lawyer. “And try to get to the point.”
“Of course, Your Honour. It will be done. Thank you for your understanding.”
“Arse-kisser,” Paul says between his teeth, behind me.
“Mr McCormack, can you briefly tell us what happened the day you and Mr Graham first met?”
“Sure.” The witness looks at Seth, who lowers his head in response. “Although I’m embarrassed, very embarrassed.”
“Your Honour!” I stand up again.
“We don’t want to hear any details, Mr McCormack,” the judge says.
