Babymama

37.

Onika Maraj

**I don't know nothing about court, so don't tear me up😭

"ALL RISE"

As the judge entered the courtroom and took a seat on the bench, we all stood up. I sensed Beyoncé's gaze upon me, and when I glanced over, it wasn't anger-it was pure sadness.

My heart clenched, knowing that our shared history weighed heavily in this room, where justice and love collided

The judge's gavel echoed through the hushed courtroom, commanding attention.

"Good morning, everyone," she began. "We are here today to address the matter of Maraj v. Knowles, a child custody case. Plaintiff, you may proceed with your opening statement." The air thickened with anticipation as the legal battle unfolded, emotions hanging in the balance.

Ladies and gentlemen, we gather here today to address the heart-wrenching matter of child custody. My client, Ms. Onika Maraj, stands before you, not as a mere petitioner but as a mother-a fierce protector of her three beloved children: Giselle Knowles, Brielle Knowles, and Noel Knowles.

I played with my fingers, thinking of how sad Beyoncé looked. I know she's hurt that I'm actually going through with this. If I'm being honest, I am too

"At this time, will Beyonce Knowles come up the stand"

I observed as she ascended to the stand, where they administered the oath and other formalities, prior to the commencement of her cross-examination by my legal counsel.

Perez: "Ms. Knowles, how was your childhood?"

Beyonce: "It was hard from having one parent loving me and one not, that's why I vowed to be a better to my own"

Perez: "How do you usually deal with stress, yoga.. alcohol... marijuana?

Beyonce: "I might indulge in a glass or two of wine, perhaps the sporadic shot, but never to the point of intoxication."

Perez: "Ms. Knowles, can you recall the incident at HIVE that evening when, under the influence of alcohol, your actions resulted in a man being hospitalized?"

Beyonce: "Yes, but I was going through something"

Perez: "So, whenever you encounter difficulties, do you tend to resort to violence, potentially even towards your own children?"

Beyonce rose abruptly in anger, causing a collective gasp in the room. I noticed Mama Tina lower her gaze, her head shaking in evident disappointment.

Beyonce's gaze met mine, filled with nothing but animosity. I was compelled to disclose everything I knew. I was aware that this would shatter the remnants of the relationship we still had.

Perez: "Ahh, no further questions"

The judge interjected, "We will adjourn for a recess and reconvene with the defendant's argument." I rose from my seat at a leisurely pace, clutching my purse.

I observed as Beyonce and her family made their exit first. Beyonce flung the door open with such force that it seemed on the verge of breaking.