Page 103 of Ruthless Possession
"Yes," she says, a bit louder this time.
For the next twenty minutes, Judge Martinez asks Charlie simple questions about her life with us: what she likes to do, what school is like, who helps her with homework. Charlie answers honestly, her confidence growing with each response.
When the judge turns to us, her questions are more pointed but still gentle. She asks about our living situation, our financial stability, our plans for Charlie's future. Trenton, Matthew, and I take turns answering, our voices steady despite the emotions churning inside me.
Throughout the proceedings, I'm aware of Evan's lawyer at a table across the room, occasionally objecting or trying to introduce evidence that the judge consistently rules inadmissible. The tension in the room builds with each objection, but Judge Martinez maintains control with firm but fair authority.
Finally, she calls for a brief recess to review her notes. We huddle together at our table, Charlie tucked safely between us.
"You're doing great," I whisper to her. "Just a little longer."
When the judge returns, her expression is thoughtful but unreadable. My heart pounds as she shuffles through her papers.
"The court has considered all the evidence presented," she begins, her voice carrying through the quiet room. "Including the home study report, psychological evaluations, and statements from all parties."
I hold my breath, my hand finding Trenton's under the table.
"In the matter of the adoption of Charlotte Elizabeth Harris by Morgan Scott, Trenton James, and Matthew Reyes…"
The judge pauses, and in that moment, everything seems to slow down. I feel Charlie's small body pressed against mine, Trenton's steady presence on my other side, Matthew's hand resting on my shoulder.
"I find that it is in the child's best interest to grant this petition. The adoption is approved, effective immediately."
The words wash over me like a wave. Relief, joy, and overwhelming love crash through me as Charlie throws her arms around my neck.
"We did it," she whispers. "We're really a family."
Ms. Alvarez hands us the official documents to sign, page after page, making it real, making it legal, making Charlie officially ours. My hand trembles as I sign my name, tears blurring my vision.
When all the signatures are complete, the judge leans forward. "Congratulations to your new family. Miss Charlie, you have three parents who clearly love you very much."
Charlie smiles, her face radiant. "I know, Your Honor. They told me."
As we leave the courtroom, we're surrounded by our loved ones, their congratulations washing over us. My mother hugs me tightly, whispering, "I'm so proud of you," while my father shakes hands with Trenton and Matthew, his eyes suspiciously bright.
At the restaurant, we take over a private room at the back, surrounded by our family and friends. Charlie sits in the middle of us, her face glowing with excitement as she opens gifts and cards from everyone. Her collection of stuffed animals has grown significantly, with Carter's bear now joining Princess Sparklehoof as her favorites.
"This is the best day ever," she announces to the table, her mouth full of chocolate cake.
I smile, watching her. "It really is."
Trenton's hand finds mine under the table. "We did it."
"We did," I agree, squeezing his fingers.
Matthew leans in, his voice low. "She's officially ours now. No one can take her away."
"I want to make a toast," my father announces, standing up with his glass raised. The room quiets immediately. "To my daughter, who has always been the strongest person I know. To Trenton and Matthew, who have proven that family isn't defined by blood, but by love and loyalty. And most importantly, to Charlie, our newest family member." His voice cracks slightly. "May you always know how wanted you are, how cherished. We've all been waiting for you."
Charlie beams up at him, completely unaware of the tears glistening in the many eyes around the table.
"To family," Trenton says simply, raising his glass.
"To family," we all echo.
The champagne bubbles fizz on my tongue, bright and sweet, and for one perfect moment the whole room is nothing but light and laughter and the solid warmth of Trenton's hand in mine.
Then the pressure in my bladder registers, the kind that's been building since the drive over and can't be ignored any longer.
