The recording cut out with a small click.

Daniel stared down at the defense table, his knuckles turning white.

Judge Sterling turned off the recorder and set it down with a heavy thud.

“Mr. Carter, do you have anything to say?” the judge asked.

Daniel did not look up, his jaw clenched in silence.

His attorney whispered something in his ear, but Daniel shrugged him off.

Judge Sterling turned her attention back to the paperwork before her.

“The court finds that the safety and well-being of the children are at immediate risk,” the judge said.

“The evidence of psychological abuse and criminal conduct is overwhelming,” she stated.

“Therefore, the court hereby awards sole legal and physical custody of Lucas and Mason Carter to the mother, Emily Carter,” the judge declared.

The words washed over me, and I felt a sob rise in my throat.

I closed my eyes, letting the tears fall freely as Sarah placed a supportive hand on my shoulder.

“The father’s visitation rights are terminated immediately,” Judge Sterling continued.

“Any future contact will be subject to the outcome of his criminal trial,” she added.