“This is just a preliminary hearing. We are only here to decide whether or not to proceed with the other party’s motion,” I tell the judge, who does not seem to like my reminder.
“Of course, Your Honour,” the other lawyer says, “however, my client maintains a firm conviction that the children’s safety is at risk.”
“Excuse me?” I ask, raising my voice.
The lawyer presents the judge with photos of Seth in compromising situations, which are very similar to the ones I saw a few days ago.
“They’re just photos.”
“Taken in a nightclub. A club where your client works,” the lawyer points out. “Not to mention his history and his addiction.”
“My client has shown his commitment during these thirteen years, and he’ll…”
“The other party received the children without establishing their parental capacity,” the lawyer continues.
“It was at the behest of their parents,” I point out. “We can’t ignore their wishes.”
“But we cannot ignore the custodial father’s failure to provide this court with any credentials or reassurance.”
“I understand your concern, Mr Campbell,” the judge says.
“What… Your Honour!” I groan aloud.
“That is clear to everyone in this courtroom, Mr Kennedy.”
“Clear… What? That the children are healthy and happy. They have good grades. They are doing well and behaving well. My client is proving to be a worthy foster father and…”
“We’ll see about that, Mr Kennedy.”
“What are you… Judge McDonald.” My voice trails off.
“You have plenty of time to prove your case, but for now,” He looks at the children. “He can’t.”
“No,” I mutter to myself.
It can’t happen again.
“It’s my job to protect the interests of the three minors sitting in my courtroom right now.”
“Your Honour…”
“This court orders that social services take custody of the children until the terms of their detention are determined.”
“No!” Mason shouts from the courtroom.
“Judge McDonald, please…”
“I’ve already made my decision, Mr Kennedy.”
“You can’t separate us!” Mason shouts.
“Officer, please,” the judge asks the officer in the courtroom to help take the children away.
“Uncle Seth! Uncle Seth!” Emily’s desperate cries pierce the air, her fear palpable as an officer tries to separate her from her brothers.
Logan cries out his brother’s name, Mason tries to break free of the officers to run to Emily, while Seth… Seth watches the scene in horror.
“Judge McDonald,” I try again, ready to plead.
