Chapter 10 - Monday Morning
Monday's emergency hearing began at 8:30 a.m.
That frightened him more than the woman in the kitchen.
Her attorney argued first.
"This case is not about pizza. It is about a grieving child in a chaotic home."
Laura stood.
"Then we agree on one thing. It isn't about pizza."
Then the 2:13 a.m. clip.
Then Marcus measuring the stairs.
Claire's attorney objected repeatedly.
The judge stopped him.
"Counsel, I have eyes."
Laura introduced the forged petition signatures, the Brightwood ownership records, the medication found in Sophie's system, Hannah's old phone, and Melissa Grant's affidavit.
Daniel expected him to defend Claire.
Instead, he looked terrified.
Laura asked, "Did you evaluate Sophie Sutton?"
"No."
Claire turned toward him.
"Did you sign a recommendation for residential treatment?"
Rusk swallowed.
"Yes."
"Based on what?"
"Information supplied to me."
"By whom?"
His eyes went to Claire.
Then away.
"Marcus Reed."
The courtroom shifted.
Laura continued.
"Did Mr. Reed pay you?"
"My consulting company received fees."
"For how many children?"
Rusk closed his eyes.
"I don't know."
"Try."
"Maybe twelve."
Daniel heard Rebecca gasp behind him.
The judge ordered immediate suspension of the guardianship petition and issued a temporary protection order barring Claire from contact with Sophie.
Daniel exhaled for the first time in days.
Then Rusk said, "Your Honor, I need protection too."
The judge frowned.
"From whom?"
Rusk looked toward the back of the courtroom.
Paul Mercer was sitting there.
The retired regulator stood calmly and walked out.
Rusk's face went white.
"He's the one who taught Marcus how to make the paperwork survive review."
Laura asked, "And Claire?"
Rusk whispered, "Claire finds the families."
Daniel stared at his wife.
Rusk continued.
"But Mercer decides which children are worth taking."
Police moved toward the hallway.
Too late.
May you like
Mercer was gone.
And so was Sophie.
