The documents were stamped with a bright red judicial seal.

He held them out toward Nathan, but Nathan didn’t take them.

“This is an emergency custody and protection order,” Julian said, taking the papers from the guard and waving them in the air.

“Signed by Judge Vance at seven o’clock this evening.”

“It grants immediate, temporary guardianship of Emma, Lily, Sophie, and Grace to their stepmother, Vanessa Caldwell.”

“Due to the severe emotional instability and potential danger posed by the biological father.”

“That is a lie,” Nathan whispered.

His face had gone completely white, the muscles in his jaw twitching.

“Vanessa hasn’t seen the girls in three weeks,” Nathan said. “She doesn’t even know their schedules.”

“She knows enough to know you’re unfit,” Julian said, smiling thin.

“And the court agrees.”

“The report states you’ve been talking to a dead woman.”

“That you’ve locked yourself in this house, letting the heating systems fail, neglecting your daughters.”

“Look around, Nathan.”

“It’s freezing in here.”

“You’re having a breakdown, and we are here to rescue the children from a dangerous environment.”