Damian opened his mouth to protest, but the judge raised a hand to silence him. “I will not tolerate manipulation or deceit in my courtroom. We will discuss this matter further, but for now, the current custody arrangement will remain in place.”

I exhaled a breath I didn’t realize I was holding. Relief washed over me, not just for myself but for Zaden. I reached across the space between us, clasping his small hand in mine. He looked up at me with those big, innocent eyes, a hint of a smile playing on his lips.

“Thank you, Zaden,” I whispered, squeezing his hand gently. “You were so brave.”