“Mr. Thomas Harper is a successful businessman in Richmond,” the lawyer continued. “He is ready to provide stability, mentorship, and a proper home for his daughter during her transition into adulthood.”

Judge Miller looked at Caroline, then back at the lawyer. “And what does the child want?”

“She has been influenced by her grandmother, Your Honor,” the lawyer said. “We ask for a court-ordered evaluation.”

Mr. Harrison stood up slowly, adjusting his glasses.

“Your Honor, if I may,” Mr. Harrison said. “We have submitted a supplemental packet of evidence this morning.”

He handed three copies of our black binder to the bailiff, who passed one to the judge and one to Thomas’s lawyer.

“These documents speak directly to the petitioner’s true motives and his history of manipulation,” Mr. Harrison said.

Thomas frowned, his eyes darting to the binder as his lawyer opened it.

“Inside, you will find a certified transcript of an audio recording made by the child herself on the afternoon of October twelfth,” Mr. Harrison said. “In this recording, Mr. Harper clearly states his intention to gain access to Caroline’s trust fund to resolve his own real estate debts.”