The genetic files remained on the screen, a clear map of the truth we had fought so hard to find.

My baby’s DNA, linked to mine, undeniable and permanent.

Samuel turned back to the judge, his expression grave.

“Your Honor, we have proven fraud, destruction of evidence, and illegal custody,” Samuel said.

He folded his hands over his legal pad.

“We ask for an immediate emergency ruling on the custody of the child,” Samuel said.

Judge Myers looked at the documents in front of her, then at the video still looping on the screen.

She picked up her pen and began writing rapidly on a yellow legal pad.

The silence stretched, heavy and suffocating.

I looked at Olivia, who was now burying her face in her hands, her shoulders shaking with silent sobs.

Ethan sat beside her, staring at the floor, completely broken.

Margaret remained upright, her chin tilted upward, her eyes fixed on the judge’s pen.

The clock on the courtroom wall ticked loudly, counting down the seconds.

Outside, the gray Denver sky pressed against the tall glass windows, spitting a light sleet against the panes.