“This court is adjourned,” the judge said, striking her gavel.

The sharp sound of the gavel echoed through the room, sealing the decision.

Daniel was led out of the side door of the courtroom by two bailiffs.

He did not look at me, nor did he say a word to his attorney.

“We did it, Emily,” Sarah whispered, a genuine smile on her face.

“Thank you, Sarah,” I said, wiping my eyes. “Thank you for believing us.”

“The evidence spoke for itself,” Sarah said, closing her briefcase. “Now, go be with your family.”

I left the courthouse and drove back to the university hospital.

The sun was finally breaking through the gray clouds, casting bright light over the city.

When I entered my mother’s room, I found Lucas and Mason sitting on the edge of her bed.

They were showing her a drawing they had made of a large, sunny house with a green yard.

My mother was sitting up, her color much better, her breathing steady and quiet.

“Mom,” Lucas said, looking up as I entered. “Did we win?”