The sound of our footsteps seemed to echo through the entire floor.

Other people waiting for their hearings turned to watch us.

Whispers broke out among the crowd.

A photographer near the end of the hall raised a camera.

The lens clicked rapidly, a series of sharp, metallic snaps.

“No photos of the child,” Nathan said, his voice dropping an octave.

He stepped slightly in front of me, shielding Rosie from the camera lens.

The photographer lowered the camera, but he didn’t look apologetic.

We reached the bench outside Courtroom 3B.

Grant took a step forward, crossing his arms.

“Well, well,” Grant said, his voice dripping with false sympathy.

“The happy couple has arrived.”

“I see the morning news was very informative, Emily.”

“I didn’t think you’d actually show your face here today.”

“This isn’t the place, Grant,” Nathan said, his voice calm and steady.

“We’ll let the judge handle the details.”

“Oh, I’m sure the judge will be very interested in your bank statements, Mr. Cole,” Evelyn said, stepping forward.

“My family does not tolerate extortion.”