“Objection,” Diane said. “The question is overly broad and invades my client’s privacy.”
The judge held up one hand.
“I’ll allow a narrower version of the question.”
Daniel turned back toward me.
“Carter, why these children? Why now? Why are you willing to spend every dollar you have, and possibly every dollar you will ever earn, on five strangers?”
I opened my mouth, but nothing came out.
I saw Eli whisper something to the younger children.
His lips formed the same soft, reassuring shape that a mother might use, and my throat closed.
“Please answer the question,” Daniel said.
“I…”
“Carter.”
The judge leaned forward.
When he lowered his hand, the sharper edge of the room seemed to soften with it.
“Daniel, sit down for a moment,” the judge said quietly.
Daniel blinked, then returned to his seat.
The judge looked directly at me, not at my file.
