Soul Serenade

37

A few months later, Ben and Miranda found themselves at the courthouse for the stepparent adoption hearing for William. The day was filled with a mix of emotions—excitement, nervousness, and above all, hope. They were accompanied by their family and closest friends, including Callie, Ashe, Miranda's parents, and Ben's dad and sister, who had all come to show their support. Today was the day that Ben would officially adopt William and become his legal father, solidifying their bond in the eyes of the law.

Miranda looked at Ben, her eyes shining with emotion. "Are you ready for this?" she asked softly, squeezing his hand affectionately.

Ben smiled, his eyes meeting Miranda's as he nodded. "I've never been more ready," he replied, "William is already my son in every way that matters, and I'm honored to make it official today."

As they entered the courthouse, they were greeted by their lawyer, who had been instrumental in guiding them through the adoption process. She led them to a small courtroom where the judge was already seated, ready to preside over the adoption proceedings.

William stood beside them, looking a bit nervous but excited nonetheless. He held Harmony's hand, finding comfort in his little sister's presence as they waited for the proceedings to begin.

The lawyer explained the process to Ben and Miranda one final time, ensuring that they understood each step of the legal proceedings. As the judge began to speak, Miranda felt her heart pound with anticipation.

"Today we are here to finalize the adoption of William," the judge began, addressing the courtroom. "Mr.Warren, do you understand that by adopting William, you will assume all legal rights and responsibilities as his father?"

Ben stood tall, his voice unwavering as he replied, "Yes, Your Honor, I do."

The judge then turned to Miranda, asking her if she agreed with the adoption and if she believed it was in William's best interest. Miranda nodded, her voice steady as she affirmed her agreement.

After what felt like an eternity but was actually just a few minutes, the judge smiled warmly at them and signed the final adoption papers, declaring Ben the legal father of William. As he banged the gavel, making the adoption official, a sense of joy and relief washed over Ben and Miranda.

They turned to William, who was beaming from ear to ear, his eyes shining with happiness. "You're officially my dad now" he exclaimed, rushing into Ben's arms for a hug.

Ben hugged William tightly, his eyes filling with tears of joy. "Yes, I am," he whispered, his voice choked with emotion.

Outside the courthouse, as they gathered with their loved ones, Miranda felt overwhelmed with emotion. "We did it," she whispered to Ben, her voice shaking with emotion.Ben smiled, wiping away a tear from Miranda's cheek. "We did," he agreed softly.

Taking a moment to gather everyone's attention, Ben cleared his throat and stepped forward, holding a beautifully framed certificate in his hands. He looked at Miranda, who stood beside him with William by her side, and smiled lovingly.

"Today is a day of celebration, not just for us but for our entire family," Ben began, his voice filled with emotion. "And so, I'd like to officially introduce you all to William Bailey Warren."

William's face lit up with happiness as he heard the words, "William Bailey Warren." His eyes sparkled with joy, and a bright smile spread across his face that seemed to light up the whole courtyard.

"William Bailey Warren," he repeated, trying out the new name, letting it sink in. "I love it. I'm really a Warren now. Just like you, mommy, and Harmony."

Ben bent down to William's level, wrapping him in another tight hug. "Yes, you are," he said, his voice filled with emotion. "And we're so proud to have you as a Warren."