The Baby Project [#Wattys2018]

Chapter Eighteen ~ Our Future Awaits

The bell rang as we piled into Ms. Beauchamp's classroom. The chalkboard and whiteboard were just freshly cleaned off, so we could use them to discuss everything; and we were in a friendly atmosphere where we didn't have to hide anything. This was our legal team.

"Okay. So the court date for your first appearance is coming up on the ninth; which is quickly approaching us next week. Remember that is so the judge can finally hear what you basically want him to do about your situation. This is not the time to slack off - because if you don't look like you want to win; then there will be no trial to get him back." stated Luna in a firm voice as she takes out paper and pens from her briefcase.

"Exactly what do you think will happen at this first hearing?" asked Luke in a wary tone; as he held Courtney's hand tightly.

"What is to be expected, sadly. The judge will hear both sides argument and decide if he wants to continue on or end it right then and there; it's purely up to him from the moment you step into that courtroom.

"So what if the other sides opening is better and stronger than ours - what then?"

"We get about a week or two to quickly fix that; and then it's back in the courtroom. Week 2 usually goes a lot smoother." States Luna as she closes the briefcase and stares at us with her eyes; and I exerted a smile back to her as a thank you for taking me on pro-bono.

"What you mean to tell us - is we basically are in court - so we have to act like our lives depend on it?" questions Luke with a cynical yet curious face.

"Luke. Let her speak. She's doing this for free."

 "If your father proves that she shouldn't be a mother... well that's another thing. She needs to tell her story the first week - so the jury can hear her and be empathetic towards the cause. If the jury becomes indecisive - because both opening statements were good - that is when - and only when we move onto week 2; to try to modify our openings and to beat your father. If we don't win that week - we're in for a rude awakening for the trial. I have seen cases like this go both ways and it's horrible watching parents' lose their children; because people are cruel - so I'll fight like hell to get your son back."

"Okay. That's a thing. Do our best. What is going to be the opening statement, Luna?" Asked Courtney as she moved away from Luke and stood up. This seriously was a moment in my life that I never thought I'd have to do; but it is what it is.

"Opening statement is all up to Rosie; after I do the introduction of course. Should we practice?" suggested Luna as she pointed to me with a puzzling look scribbled on her face.

Now all eyes were on me.

Pressure seeped in and the sweat ran down my face; as I look at everyone a little freaked out. I hate being put on the spot like that; and I realized if I didn't get over that pet peeve - there would be no chance of getting him back. Suck it up, girl! You can do this. Let her do that introduction she always does and then you do your job! No choking on words; they're not meant to be swallowed like that.

"Of course. You go first." I reply with the words coming out like word vomit; and I just look own at the ground as I dangle my feet over the desk; and wait for something bad to happen.

"Sweetie. We won't do anything you don't want to do. If you aren't ready right now - then we can wait. Time is not really in our corner... but I could try to postpone the hearing; but that might look like you don't want him. Anyways my dear, what do you want to do?"

"No...no...no! We are getting him back. I have never been more ready than I am right now. I am missing his life as we speak and I want him back; and this project seriously needs to be stopped. Let's hear that introduction of yours."