The next words from Damian were sharper, more insistent. “You think she can give you what you need? You’ll regret it if you don’t do this. Trust me.”

The recording ended, leaving a stark silence in its wake. The judge’s face had hardened, his eyes moving from the phone to Damian, who now seemed to have diminished, his earlier bravado shrinking away. The courtroom held its breath, waiting for the judge’s response.

“Mr. Carter,” the judge’s voice was cool and measured, “it appears that your request for custody is not supported by your son’s wishes, but rather by coercion on your part. This is a serious matter, and it reflects poorly on your parenting judgment and your respect for Zaden’s autonomy.”