The judge turned to Damian, his voice edged with authority. “Mr. Carter, it’s evident that there is more at play than a simple preference. We will need to examine this situation further before considering any custody changes.”
I exhaled, tension leaving me like air escaping a balloon. Zaden had done it. He had faced pressure, manipulation, and adult expectations, and revealed the truth with a courage that most grown-ups would struggle to muster.
As the hearing continued, I reached out and squeezed Zaden’s hand, silently thanking him for his bravery. Whatever challenges lay ahead, we would face them together, grounded in honesty and the bond we shared.
In that courtroom, a child’s voice had shifted the balance, proving that courage doesn’t depend on age — it depends on heart, conviction, and the will to speak the truth.
