He handed a document to the bailiff, who passed it to the judge.

“This is a report from Dr. Robert Aris, a renowned chief of psychiatry in Boston.”

“Dr. Aris has reviewed Mrs. Hartwell’s recent behavior.”

“He has diagnosed her with severe postpartum psychosis.”

The words hung in the quiet courtroom.

I felt a chill run down my spine.

I looked at Carter.

He was staring straight ahead, his face a mask of solemn grief.

“According to the report, Mrs. Hartwell is experiencing severe delusions,” Vance continued.

“She believes her husband is conspiring against her.”

“She has begun fabricating financial documents.”

“She has even threatened employees of Hartwell House.”

“Dr. Aris concludes that she is a danger to herself and her child.”

Judge Harrison turned a page of the report.

The sound of the paper flipping was loud in the small room.

“This is a very serious diagnosis, Mr. Vance,” the judge said.

“It is, Your Honor,” Vance said.

“We are asking for immediate, temporary custody of June to be granted to Carter Hartwell.”

“We are also asking for a temporary conservatorship over Mrs. Hartwell’s personal and business assets.”