Court

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Two-Bit
July 3, 1965

I was wearing one of my nicer t-shirts and jeans with boots. I didn't what else was I supposed to wear to court. I waited around for Peyton to get ready, which was around forty-five minutes.

"Alrighty, lets get this over with." Peyton walked out, she was wearing her jeans with a white shirt and flannel over top, white converse tied to her feet. Her hair was put up in a ponytail and a red bandana wrapped around her head. She had on some makeup that covered up all her bruises, she looked better than the past few days.

I jumped up and we headed out the door, "See ya in a bit!" I called out behind me. Our "meeting" I guess we'll call it, was scheduled for 2:45, it was 2:00 now.

"It's been a rough week," I started, but was not sure where I was going with my words, "and Frank might get custody of you."

"Two-Bit don't. I don't want to think about that. Im stayin' right here no matter what. I ain't going to the City with Frank and his new family. I'll be right here with ours." Peyton gave me a look that shut me right up. We walked the rest of the way in silence.

A let out a long big sigh once we got back to the towered court house.

"I hate this place," Peyton said, "Just as much as I hate the hospital."

I nodded in complete agreement, on the other side of the glass door I saw him, I saw them. Frank, his wife, and his son.

"That's them, Two." P said, our gazes were held on the same three people. It felt surreal looking at them. For so long I had convinced myself that Frank was dead.

After a few more minutes of staring we finally worked up the nerve and headed inside.

"The court case 1o-98 is now in session. the custody of Peyton Elaine Matthews." The judge slammed his gavel on the stand, making both of us jump.

"Frank Matthews, Keith is 18 meaning he can be the primary guardian of Peyton, do you wish to proceed action?"

Frank stood up, "I do. I wish to take action."

Peyton and I looked at each other our jaws dropping.

"No, I refuse to live with him!" Peyton jumped up, "I'm staying here with my brother my family that actually care about me instead of running away when things get tough!" Peyton yelled.

The judge slammed his gavel down, "Calm down. Kieth, do you want to be the guardian of Peyton?"

"Yes, yes I do."

"Okay, seeing as Peyton wants to remain in Kieth's care, that's what's going to happen. I will give them two weeks to find a place to live and then send their social worker to do a wellness check," the judge looked at all of us, "if it's an unfit environment then Peyton will go into Frank's care."

Peyton and I glanced at each other, then at Frank and his family.

"We'll see you all in two weeks." The judge tapped his gavel and everyone started getting up and leaving.

"Let's get out of here," Peyton said.

"Hey, Peyton, Kieth!"

We were at the door when Franks voice called out to us. We both contemplated on if we should leave or turn around.

"Kids, please."

"I want you guys to meet my wife and my son." His voice was quieter, like he was helpless.

Peyton forced a smile on her face and we both turned. I was going to tell him to call me Two-Bit, but quickly decided he didn't get that privilege.

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