It was meant to be

24 - Something Just For Us

Tessa

Today is the day. Today we're going to court and I will be right next to Hardin to support him. Today is the trial for Auden's custody. I'm one hundred percent sure that Hardin will have full custody. Michael is the best lawyer and he assured us that Hardin will win the custody.

In the courtroom, the atmosphere is thick with tension as everyone takes their seats. Hardin sits next to his lawyer, Michael, while I'm seated behind him, with his mother, offering silent support. Across the room sits Mary and Will, Auden's grandparents. The judge enters, and everyone stands until she motions for us to sit.

Michael stands, clearing his throat as he addresses the court. "Your Honor, today we are here to discuss the custody of Auden Scott. My client, Mr. Hardin Scott, is seeking full custody. He has been Auden's primary caregiver, providing a stable and loving home since the child's birth."

He steps forward, looking directly at the judge. "Mr. Scott has demonstrated time and again his dedication to his son's wellbeing. He has ensured that Auden has access to a safe environment, an excellent education, and emotional support."

The judge nods, taking notes as Michael continues. "Auden has thrived under Mr. Scott's care, and it is our position that granting full custody to him is in the best interest of the child."

Then Mary's and Will's lawyer stands, his voice sharp and clear. "Your Honor, while we acknowledge Mr. Scott's role in his son's life, we must consider the child's connection to his grandparents. They played a substantial role in his upbringing and seeks joint custody to maintain that bond."

Their lawyer gestures toward her, and Mary dabs her eyes with a tissue, nodding along as he speaks. "Mrs. Harris believes it is essential for Auden to have the stability of both his father and his extended family, especially after the tragic loss of his mother."

Hardin shifts in his seat, his jaw tightening. Michael, sensing his frustration, puts a hand on his arm to keep him calm. When it's Hardin's turn to speak, he stands, taking a deep breath before addressing the court directly.

"I don't deny that Mary and Will love Auden." Hardin begins, his voice steady but filled with emotion. "But my son needs a consistent, stable home. He needs to know where he belongs. I've been there for him every single day, and I've given him everything I can to make sure he feels loved and secure. And I was there for him in the sick days."

The judge looks at Hardin intently. "Mr. Scott, could you elaborate on how you've addressed Auden's emotional needs following the passing of his mother?"

Hardin nods, his voice softening. "We talk about her often. I make sure Auden knows he can ask me anything, that he can come to me with his feelings. I've taken him to counseling to help him process his grief. I want him to feel connected to his mom's memory, but I also want him to feel safe moving forward."

Mary looks down, and for a moment, there's a flicker of understanding between her and Hardin. She watches him, her expression wavering as he continues.

"I love my son." Hardin says, his voice breaking slightly. "I've dedicated my life to giving him everything he needs. I respect Mary and Will and the connection they have with him, but Auden needs stability, and I believe I'm the one who can provide that for him."

Michael stands up again to address the judge, giving Hardin a reassuring nod as he takes his seat. The judge reviews her notes, her gaze moving back and forth between Hardin and Trina. Finally, she looks at each of the lawyers.

"Thank you both for your statements. I will take this under careful consideration and will announce my decision shortly."

As we all wait in tense silence, Hardin turns back toward me, his hand reaching for mine. I squeeze his hand tightly, offering him a small smile. "You did great." I whisper, my voice filled with pride.