The judge looked at me over his glasses.
“Mr. Carter, is that right?”
“Yes, Your Honor.
The lawyer continued.
Children can be placed in authorized homes by Friday.s, Delaying your care by an unapproved applicant creates unnecessary risk.
“Separating them creates a greater risk,” Diane argued. These children have already lost their parents. The link they have between them is the only stability they have left.
The judge looked at the children.
Eli was tying the loose lace from Lila’s shoe while Noah was sleeping leaning against his shoulder.
Then the judge looked at me again.
“Mr. Carter, get on the stand.
I felt my legs weak as I went.
The state attorney approached.
Do you make a living making furniture?
“Yes.
Doesn’t he own a big house?
“No.
Have you ever raised a child?
“No.
“And did you exhaust your savings by preparing for children that the court had not yet agreed to put in your care?”
“Yes.
He paused, almost confused.
Why?
Because they needed someone.
“Thousands of children need someone. Why these five?
I looked at Eli.
He was whispering something to the twins, trying to calm them down even though he was the most scared child in the whole room.
“Because they are brothers.
“That can’t be your only motive.
“It should be enough.
The lawyer looked at my file.
“Their records from nine to seventeen are incomplete. There are multiple cares, school transfers and missing medical records. Could you explain those years?
My hands clung hard to the railing of the stand.
Diane stood up.
