Chapter 46q: Higher Authority
This neat suit is far too tight. It chafes. Especially while sitting in the wheelchair like this.
But it doesn't matter. Not compared to the utter bullshit of a verdict I am listening to.
They are words of nonsense. My fingers lack strength, but they still got white as I squeeze around the grips of my chair.
"... so after much deliberation, this court has found it to not be in the best interests of the child to be removed from her current home to a possibly unstable living situation at this time. The potential blessings of once more being reunited with her father and brother have in my opinion been insufficiently justified compared to the considerable changes this would bring along. Especially in the case of ..."
He just drones on. And on. And it is all legal garbage. I give Henderson a glance; the man has done an alright job trying to look after my affairs for as far I can tell, but I can't say I'm fully satisfied. But I guess he's doing an okay job as a barrister.
However, he shakes his head now, urging me to stay silent.
Silent your ass. Setsuka is not going to come home with this shoddy excuse of a verdict!
" ... past history of alcohol abuse is a considerable negative mark in this regard. Perhaps in a years time, there can be merits for a re-evaluation for the suitability of having her rejoin her biological family. However, this court would like to make a final statement on this matter - one that goes beyond the letter of the law but is well within the experiences of this judge. Mr. Heel."
He looks at me, and I look back at him, trying to look respectful but I know I am quite pissed off at his sanctimonious British ass. His accent shows just how far removed he is from society!
"Yes, your Honor?"
"I want to caution you against dragging this matter on. I understand the great desire to see and provide for your daughter on a daily basis, but when all the living essentials have been covered for, there is one thing that matters above all else. And that thing is stability. Do you understand?"
He must have grandkids. Most of his hair has already fallen out. So how does he know what modern kids want? He's antiquated. And not nearly as familiar with the importance of providing for and being close to our children as we are.
"Respectfully, your Honor, I believe that... Setsuka needs her father. Her... caregivers may clean her clothes and keep her fed, but the... emotions and ties there are an.. emotional desert. Nobody loves her more than I do! And nobody else could provide her as good and safe a home to grow up in."
Henderson doesn't seem too satisfied, but at least he's not motioning me to hold back how I'm feeling. The judge frowns, but screw him.
I have a right to my opinion. He's a judge. Not the damn Queen, nor God.
"You are entitled to your opinion, Mr. Heel. Regardless, for the time being, this court decides that the custody arrangements shall remain the same, and that you have visitation rights for at least three hours every week, but with no upper limit as dictated by the child herself. Do you two understand?"
He is looking at those people Setsuka dubbed the fakes. Heh. At least I'm getting something out of it. They nod respectfully.
"Similarly, just to avoid further prosecution on the matter, I will say that I believe that while Cain is a child with problems, he has taken adequate measures to improve as a person, be it in temper, manners or finding positive ways to contribute to society. He is not a danger to Setsuka - nor do I personally believe he ever was - and as such I order you to not interfere in the ability of the two siblings to communicate or meet beyond those concerns natural to any parent, such as the childs location and her being home before nightfall."
A smile slips on my face. A victory!
If you were here and not at school right now, you'd no doubt see.
Dad didn't fail you completely. I got you back your Nii-san!
"This does not mean you have to go out of your way to facilitate their meetings, especially not on a regular basis. I understand your concerns regarding the boy, and if you wish to give off a clear signal towards her regarding your opinion of him, that is very much your right. However, I trust in the fact that Mr. Heel will be glad to accomodate any such matters in your stead."
I quickly nod and speak affirmatively.
"I am, your Honor. Very much so."
The old man smiles, nodding at me and then her guardians.
"Case dismissed."
We begin to clear out the room, and despite the small victory, it pales in comparison to the win I truly desired.
"So.. how do we... appeal? To a higher court?"
Henderson sighs. I guess he saw my question coming fifteen minutes ago. It doesn't matter what he thinks, though.
Trust in me, Setsuka. I'll get you back home.