“The IP addresses associated with these attempts trace directly to your personal laptop and your office computer.”

Grant’s lawyer leaned back, rubbing his temples as if a sudden headache had struck him.

“We also have a sworn affidavit from a notary public in Fairfax County,” the judge said.

“She states quite clearly that she did not witness Colonel Langley sign the power of attorney document you submitted to the bank.”

“She states that you paid her a cash fee of one thousand dollars to apply her seal to a pre-signed document.”

I closed my eyes for a brief second, feeling a wave of exhaustion wash over me.

The pain from my delivery two days ago was still a dull, throbbing ache in my lower back.

But the relief that followed the judge’s words was sharp and clear.

“This court finds no basis whatsoever for the petitioner’s emergency custody request,” Judge Vance said, his voice firm.

“The petition is denied.”

Grant flinched as if he had been slapped.

“Furthermore,” Judge Vance said, leaning forward over his bench, “the court is deeply disturbed by the circumstances surrounding the birth of the child, Evelyn.”