“Can you describe the family dynamic that Rosie would experience in your home?”

Evelyn smiled softly at the judge.

“Our family has always provided a supportive, loving environment,” Evelyn said.

“We have generations of tradition in Nashville.”

“We want nothing but the absolute best for our granddaughter.”

She leaned forward slightly.

“My son has always been a devoted father, despite the difficulties Emily created,” she added.

I closed my eyes for a brief second.

I remembered the check Evelyn had slid across the table to me three years ago.

*Five hundred thousand dollars to walk away and leave Rosie with us,* she had said.

I had torn the check in half and thrown it in her face.

Now, she was painting herself as the savior of my child.

“And you believe your home is the best place for Rosie?” Vance asked.

“Without a doubt,” Evelyn said.

“We can offer her the security that a struggling, single mother simply cannot.”

She cast a brief, pitying look toward our table.

Sarah Jenkins stood up to cross-examine.

“Mrs. Whitmore,” Sarah said, walking slowly toward the stand.