Chapter 8 - Burning Bridges, Building Walls
“In my twenty years on the bench,” Judge Robertson said, her voice echoing off the hardwood walls, “I have rarely seen such a disgusting, malicious abuse of the court system and public safety services.”
She struck her gavel hard.
“The petition for temporary custody is dismissed with prejudice! Furthermore, I am issuing a permanent, lifetime restraining order against Evelyn Harper and Melissa Harper. They are to remain at least 1,000 feet away from Natalie Harper, Lily Harper, their residence, and the child's school.”
Judge Robertson turned to the bailiff standing by the door. “Bailiff, please inform the District Attorney’s office that I am referring this matter immediately for criminal prosecution regarding child abuse, filing a false emergency report, and perjury.”
Two police officers walked into the courtroom.
Evelyn finally broke. She stood up, her face twisted in rage and panic.
“You can’t do this to me! I’m her mother! Natalie, tell them! You ungrateful bitch, after everything I did for you!” Evelyn screamed at the top of her lungs, her hands flailing as the officers stepped forward.
Melissa began sobbing hysterically, burying her head in her hands on the table. “Mom, you said this would work! You said we would get the money!”
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“Quiet! Both of you!” their attorney yelled, realizing his own reputation was burning to the ground.
The officers handcuffed Evelyn and Melissa right there in the middle of the courtroom. As they were dragged out down the hallway, their screams echoed through the marble corridors—the exact sound of people realizing they had destroyed their own lives in an attempt to ruin someone else's.
