“If you give up pursuing this farce of a couple, I agree to review Mr Graham’s case, say… in six months.”
“Oh well, that sounds like a good proposal,” Seth says, looking at me.
I raise my hand to ask him to wait to sing victory.
“In those six months, Mr Graham will have to work hard to prove to this court that he is a fit parent for this role.”
“I can absolutely do that.” Seth shifts nervously in his chair.
“Find a stable job that doesn’t take him away at night and allows him to provide for the needs of three children; find a bigger house that will give the children the space they need to grow up.”
“Of course,” Seth sounds less confident. “I will try to do all these things, judge, I promise.”
“I’m not finished.”
Seth nods.
“He will have to attend a support group for former drug addicts and this court will assign and supervise a course for foster parents.”
“I’ll do whatever it takes.”
“Good. That’s what I was hoping to hear.”
“What will happen to the children during these six months?” I am the one asking what Seth has not considered.
The judge looks at me. “The children will be removed from Mr Graham's house during the time granted by this court…”
“What? No!” Seth stands up immediately.
“And placed with social services until Mrs Cormack’s suitability has been determined…”
“He can’t do that! Can he, Rowan?” Seth looks at me, his expression contrite, tears in his eyes.
“Mr. Graham will receive visitation rights equivalent to one weekend a month.”
“Oh my God!”
“At the end of the stipulated period, and after establishing the new conditions, Mr Graham may apply to this official court for custody.”
“You can’t take the children away from me, please...”
The judge continues regardless of Seth’s desperation, which, on the contrary, takes a fair share of my mind and… something else.
“If the application is unsuccessful, Mrs McCormack can apply for sole custody and later legally adopt the children.”
“That’s not really happening.” Seth slumps back in his chair.
“Judge…” I interrupt.
“This is my proposal, Mr Kennedy. I suggest you discuss it with your client and?—”
“No discussion needed, judge.” I stand up and calmly straighten my jacket. “We respectfully decline your proposal and decide to proceed with the case.”
Seth lifts his head slowly. I feel his eyes on me, his hope and despair.
“Mr Kennedy…”
“We have no intention of giving up on these children, Judge McDonald. Not without a fight.”
