“It should be.”
He almost smiled.
“Carter, there are unexplained gaps in your background between the ages of nine and 17. The court should understand those years before it places five children in your care.”
The room became so quiet that I could feel the silence in my ribs.
I looked down at my hands.
“I would rather not discuss that, sir.”
“I’m sure you would rather not,” Daniel said gently. “However, this court is being asked to place five human beings in your care. The court is entitled to understand who you are.”
“Objection,” Diane said. “The question is overly broad and invades my client’s privacy.”
The judge held up one hand.
“I’ll allow a narrower version of the question.”
Daniel turned back toward me.
“Carter, why these children? Why now? Why are you willing to spend every dollar you have, and possibly every dollar you will ever earn, on five strangers?”
I opened my mouth, but nothing came out.
I saw Eli whisper something to the younger children.
His lips formed the same soft, reassuring shape that a mother might use, and my throat closed.
“Please answer the question,” Daniel said.
“I…”
“Carter.”
The judge leaned forward.
