The judge capped her pen and set it down on the desk with a sharp click.

“Furthermore, the forensic evidence regarding the mother, Grace Sullivan, shows no signs of neglect or unfitness.”

“The evidence demonstrates a coordinated effort by Josephine and Melanie Sullivan to fabricate claims of neglect.”

I felt a tear slip down my cheek, hot and fast.

Leo leaned his head against mine, his breathing shaky.

“Therefore,” the judge continued, “this court awards sole legal and physical custody of Sam Sullivan to his parents, Leo and Grace Sullivan.”

“Effective immediately.”

A quiet gasp escaped my throat, and I buried my face in Leo’s shoulder.

He held me tight, his body trembling with quiet relief.

“We got him back, Grace,” he whispered, his voice cracking.

“We got our boy back.”

“I am not finished,” the judge said, her gaze locking onto Josephine and Melanie.

“The court hereby issues a permanent restraining order against Josephine Sullivan and Melanie Sullivan.”

“You are ordered to remain at least five hundred feet away from Leo Sullivan, Grace Sullivan, and Sam Sullivan at all times.”