Chapter 8 - The Verdict of Justice
The gavel strike echoed through the courtroom like a gunshot.
“Diana Harlo’s parental rights over Lily and Owen Callahan are hereby permanently and irrevocably terminated,” Judge Vance ruled, her voice resounding with authority. “Furthermore, I am ordering the immediate arrest of Diana Harlo on charges of felony child endangerment and perjury.”
Two bailiffs stepped forward immediately, placing steel handcuffs around Diana’s wrists as she wailed in hysterical despair, being led out through the side doors.
Judge Vance turned her attention back to Riker Steel.
“Mr. Steel,” the judge said softly. “Under normal circumstances, state adoption proceedings require a lengthy evaluation period. However, given the extraordinary circumstances of this case, the unassailable testimony of the child, and your demonstrated commitment to their welfare, I am exercising judicial discretion.”
She signed an official document on her desk and stamped it with the gold seal of Cook County.
“Effective immediately, full legal custody and guardianship of Lily and Owen Callahan is awarded to Riker Steel,” Judge Vance announced warmly. “Congratulations, Mr. Steel. You are officially their father.”
The gallery erupted into applause.
Owen and Lily ran across the courtroom aisle, throwing their arms around Riker’s legs. Riker dropped to his knees, scooping both children into his arms, pulling them tight against his chest while Marco and Anton stood behind him, smiling broadly.
“We get to stay?” Owen asked, burying his face in Riker’s neck.
“You’re staying forever, son,” Riker whispered, kissing the top of the boy’s head. “Forever.”
As they walked out of the courthouse into the bright afternoon sunlight, Victor Vance was waiting near the steps, his face pale and ruined.
Riker stopped in front of him, holding Lily in one arm and Owen’s hand in his other.
“Your real estate firm went into receivership an hour ago, Vance,” Bernard Holt announced, handing Vance a legal notice. “And federal investigators are seizing Callahan’s Auto Repair to return it to the children’s estate.”
Vance looked at Riker, defeat complete in his eyes. “You destroyed my company for two orphans?”
Riker looked down at his children, then back at Vance.
May you like
“They’re not orphans, Vance,” Riker said coldly. “They’re my children. Now get out of my sight before I decide to take the rest of your assets.”
Vance turned and fled down the street without another word.
