Oh yeah, I do not own W.I.T.C.H. or any of the characters, the plot is totally a work of my twisted little mind...
Chapter 26: Everything I Do Is For Her
Taranee's POV
When court resumed, Ms. Johnson called first my mom, then my dad and finally Mrs. Vandom to the stand. Mrs. Hale had warned that my parents and Will's mom would probably be the last witnesses called to the stand as the strength of their case was in the get-together we had at Will's the previous Friday, where Nigel and I made love for the first time.
What we had going in our favor is that Mrs. Vandom did not actually catch anyone having sex. After Mrs. Vandom left the stand, Mrs. Hale called for a re-dress and she began calling my friends to the stand – first Hay Lin, then Eric who both emphatically stressed they did not have sex and that we watched movies and played truth or dare which led to Nigel and I going into Will's room and having sex. They both express a disinterest in what we were doing and explained they went off to make-out – kissing only as they both are not ready to go farther. When Mrs. Hale called Matt, Caleb, Will and Irma to the stand, they reiterated the flow of events of the evening, explaining that when we went into the bedroom the six of them remained in the living room, playing truth or dare (an over-glossing of events, but the truth) until they decided to order pizza. When questioned about sex, Caleb happily explained that yes he had sex with Irma that night prior to coming over and that there was some teasing about that.
Ms. Johnson cross examination further solidified the fact that yes Nigel and I had sex, but Mrs. Vandom's extreme behavior had no basis in what she came home to – ten teenagers cleaning up popcorn and pizza preparing to call their evening over.
Mrs. Hale presented the judge and Ms. Johnson with signed affidavits from the Lin's that they had received a hysterical phone call from Mrs. Vandom that they investigated and found baseless.
The judge recalled Will to the stand and asked her pointedly, "On the night in question, did you go off to a separate part of your apartment and have sex with your boyfriend?"
Will looked her in the face and stated truthfully, "No, Your Honor, I played games in the living room all night."
When Ms. Johnson requested a redress, "Asking Will were you sexually active with your boyfriend at that time?"
"Objection!," Mrs. Hale shot up from her seat, "Your Honor, Will is not on trial and this is not a discovery into the intimate relationships of any persons other than Taranee Cook and how it pertains to how the abuse was instigated."
"Sustained," replied the judge with a note of finality.
Ms. Johnson sagged back into her seat as with that statement Mrs. Hale effectively shut further inquires into that Friday night.
When Will was released back to her seat, the judge called Nigel back to the stand.
The judge called for a brief recess lunch and we all headed to the cafeteria. Nigel came up and took my hand and for the first time I realized that his dad, Bryant, was with him. Bryant Ashcroft, was a man of average height, with a slim but fit build. He wore a pin-striped 3-piece suit that made him look very aristocratic. He shared the same hair color and jaw as Nigel, with just a few extra lines from age.
"Hello, Taranee," Mr. Ashcroft began as he pushed his glasses up on his nose, he gave me a small smile.
I was at a total loss at what to say, so I croaked out a weak, "Hello sir."
I wasn't sure what Nigel's father thought of me with all of this drama and knowing that Nigel and I had had sex. If he hated me it wouldn't be a surprise.
But he looked at me with sympathy and said, "I'm sorry that you have to go through all of this. Your mother is taking her grudge against my son out on you now. I just want you to know that we don't blame you for any of this. Nigel and I have had several long talks and I know that his head is in the right place. I didn't raise my son to mistreat women. He loves you. I know he loves you. And even though your both so young, I've never seen him more focused or dedicated to a single goal. And in case you didn't know you are his goal. I wish your parents can see what his feelings for you have helped him achieve. I've watched my son turn into a young man I am extremely proud of, turning away from his questionable past because as he told me, he had to be good enough for you."
He cleared his throat and continued, "I stand with my son. My family supports you both. My wife is traveling for business or she would be here too."
Mr. Ashcroft wiped away a tear then leaned in and gave me a one-armed hug before he excused himself to find something in the cafeteria's offerings.
Nigel gave my hand a squeeze and I turned to see him smiling at me. His love, the support of our friends and family hit me then and tears of joy began to escape freely from my eyes. I smiled at Nigel and shook my head when he looked afraid and told him, "These are happy tears... I need to let them flow because I'm too happy to hold it in."
Strange but true, I can be happy in the midst of this awful trial. Even when I don't know what my future holds, maybe its enough to know that I don't go to my future alone.
Cornelia's POV
After our late lunch, we returned to the courtroom. The judge entered while we all filed in so there was no waiting for things to kick off again.
"I am satisfied from the testimonies heard this morning and the evidence presented that the minor, Taranee Cook has indeed been the victim of abuse at the hands of her legal guardians, her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Lionel Cook."
Upon hearing himself accused of abusing Taranee, Mr. Cook jumped up from his seat slamming his hands on the table top and shouted, "What!"
It was the first intelligible sound he had made all day.
The judge banged her gavel and reprimanded, "You are out of order Mr. Cook."
Mr. Cook slowly re-seated himself but his face remained tight and full of ire. It was too clear what was upsetting him and I think that the judge took pity on him and explained: "Mr. Cook, while you did not inflict the actual abuse, you did nothing to stop it. Nor did you provide medical care or even bother to evaluate Taranee's health in the wake of your wife's violence."
Mr. Cook dropped his head and covered his face with his hands as the truth of the judges words were undeniable.
"In regards to the first issue before the court today, I find that the abuse of the minor Taranee Cook is severe and remaining in the familial home is a clear and present danger to her health and well being. It is the order of this court that Taranee Cook be removed from the guardianship and home of Lionel and Theresa Cook immediately. It is fortunate that there were community members that were attentive to the situation to offer sanctuary and solace in her time of need."
Judge Rizoli paused a moment to allow her words to sink in. From my seat, I could see Mrs. Cook's face tighten into a barely contained grimace.
The judge continued, "Now the task remaining before the court is to decide if emancipation is the best option for this fifteen year old minor. In my time on the bench I must have heard at least 200 emancipation requests – of those I have granted less than 100. None of those have been to anyone so young."
Again Judge Rizoli, paused. She removed her glasses and looked wearily at Taranee, "I need to know, Miss Cook that you understand what is at stake here today. Should I determine you are not capable of caring for yourself as a responsible and contributing adult member of society you will be placed into the foster care system until such time as you reach the age of maturity."
From her seat Taranee gave a solemn nod, her serious face confirming that she completely understood what was at stake.
"Alright then," Judge Rizoli said as she sat back and re-seated her glasses on the bridge of her nose. Taranee please retake the stand."
Once Taranee was again seated in the witness chair, the judge asked, "How do you plan to obtain a place of residence and gainful income as to provide for yourself, Miss Cook."
"Um, Judge, I have over $7,000 that I have managed to save from my summer part-time jobs. I know its not much, but it is sufficient to make a down payment on a small studio apartment. I've had summer jobs for the last three years, usually two at a time – so I have work experience and I know how to interview for jobs. I know that at my age I won't be able to get a great job, but if you look at my school grades and volunteer record, you'll see I am an over-achiever. I don't let anything stop me when I have a goal I want to reach. I have determination and I have been proving myself for a long time now. I realize you don't know me, but I have a great foundation to step out into the world now. I know I can't go home...I can never go back, so I have to go forward. I accept that and I'm ready. I can work and I'll take the equivalency exam and get my diploma. With time I know I can complete my dream of going to college and becoming a doctor."
Judge Rizoli nodded her head accepting Taranee's heartfelt answer. She offered another question, "And how do you plan to handle the loneliness? Watching your friends lead a carefree life, attending school, going on functions and progressing on in life, while you work two jobs just to keep a roof over your head and food on your table? Are you really ready to give up being a kid yet? Are you ready to fend for yourself in a world that will try to take advantage of your youth and naivete at every turn? Wouldn't it be smarter to choose to go into the foster system? There are many good families willing to open their homes to you. People like the Lairs, who have sheltered you through this ordeal. I need you to really consider what all you risk. There won't be time for your friends or your boyfriend, you will have to focus on your survival – carry weights they won't understand or be equipped to share."
I scooted forward in my chair, but Will's hand stopped my from standing. Her touch was the only reminder I needed to stay quiet. One outburst could negatively impact the judge's opinion of Taranee, so I sat back and held my tongue. But I ached tell her how wrong she was. As guardians, we have faced life threatening foes and come out victoriously only because we stayed united. That judge had no idea the battles we faced, even now, or how much we depended on each other. Yes we are friends, but we are also so much more – we are family. These girls are my sisters and nothing is going to separate us. We will always support each other."
"Your Honor, I know you won't believe me but, I know in my heart that I'll never be alone. The gallery here is filled with people that are more than just friends, they are family...family that is closer and more concerned for my health and well being than the people that gave birth to me," Taranee replied, then continued, "and as far as my boyfriend, Nigel, I love him and want him to-"
"Your Honor, may I speak?"
I recognized the deep, melodic voice of Peter as it sounded from the back of the room. I turned and searched the gallery for him. Like me, every head turned to locate Peter, finding him as he rose from a seat in the middle of the back row. My breath froze in my chest as I took him in, he was dressed in a navy blue suit with a midnight blue tie. But after not seeing him since Monday, I would think he looked just as wonderful wearing day old sweats.
Murmurs filled the room and I heard a gasp come from the direction of the Cooks, but did not turn to see who it was. The judge banged her gavel and asked in a strict voice, "Who are you young man and why are you disrupting my court room?"
Stepping forward, Peter said in a sure voice, "I apologize your honor, my name is Peter Cook and I am Taranee's older brother."
Judge Rizoli sifted through the documentation on her desk, then raked her gaze over Mrs. Hale and Ms. Johnson as she asked, "A little late to the party aren't you? By the way, counsels, why weren't both minors listed in the complaint?"
Quickly, Ms. Johnson replied, "Peter is the eldest child of the Cooks, a model student and obedient child. He is a few weeks from his 18th birthday. The Cooks do not have the same disciplinary issues with him that they have with Taranee.
"Really?" Judge Rizoli said incredulously, "Are you still trying to paint your clients as blameless? Please for all of our sakes: Give It A Rest!"
"Taranee you may return to your seat with Mrs. Hale. Please come forward young man and take the stand. Bailiff please swear him in."
I noticed that Peter favored one side as he walk, nothing too serious but it was easy to see he wasn't moving with his usual fluid grace.
The judge waited patiently as her orders were quickly followed by all involved.
When Peter was sworn in and seated to her side, the judge asked, "What can you tell me about how your sister was hurt?"
Obediently, Peter related the events of Monday night from his point of view. My eyes were glued to him, drinking in every detail about him because our four days apart had left me starved and desperate.
"Were you aware of the beating that took place the next day?" Judge Rizoli asked.
"No, Your Honor, I haven't been home since I left for school on Tuesday morning" Peter replied succinctly and looked around for approval to continue.
At the judge's nod, Peter continued, " I'm close enough to my 18th birthday that there's not much my parents can really do to me, but I needed a way to protect Taranee. My mom has always been harder on her than me but lately its been just plain scary. So I went to the week long basketball camp for State University Team draft. I explained to the coach my family issues and he promised if I made the cut that I could have a paying position at the training camp and a scholarship. The only catch was I had to participate for the entire week and since we were grounded I had to go without telling anyone. But it was the only way I could think to be able to support us both and protect my sis. Its an immersion camp – no outside communication allowed – but somehow my friend Caleb found me and convinced the coach to let him talk to me. That's how I learned about this trial and was able to get here today."
At Peter's words I felt a huge weight lift from my chest, the mystery was solved. For the first time since Monday, I felt like I could really breathe. The man I love cares for and protects all of his loved ones.
Looking impressed, Judge Rizoli nodded, "Peter, I'm proud of you. Family is supposed to take care of and protect each other. I applaud your efforts to protect your younger sister and your inventive plan.
Peter looked out into the court room and said to Taranee, "Tee, I'm so sorry I wasn't there and couldn't help you. I never thought-" he stopped talking as his voice caught and ran his hand across his face.
I saw Taranee mouth something to her brother with a smile and he seemed to brighten slightly from her message.
"Your Honor, I'm no stranger to working hard its how I turned my love of basketball into a scholarship and job. Like Taranee, I've held several part time and summer jobs and have more savings than Taranee to help us get started. Additionally, I've already found an apartment for us if you just give us a chance," pleaded Peter.
"So your plan is to take custody of your minor sibling? And support you both while you attend college on a basketball scholarship? I've got to give you points for moxie kid. But how do you plan to overcome the same challenges I presented to your sister? What happens to her when you want to go spend time with friends, have a serious girlfriend or just plain get tired of always being the responsible one?" Judge Rizoli studied Peter as she fired off her questions.
I felt my stomach tighten as Peter's mouth fell open, as words failed him.
She continued, "I think its really great what you want to do son, but I don't think you appreciate the commitment needed. Your sister's circumstances are-"
Nigel's POV
It's now or never. I hadn't expected Peter to step in. Watching him seek guardianship of Taranee, I realized I could loose everything if I didn't speak up soon. So I jumped to my feet and started moving forward as I interrupted the Judge.
"Um, Your Honor, may I speak again?"
"Again? Haven't you already been up here today? Okay, so let me guess, you want me to grant you custody of her also? You do know that you are a minor like her right?"
"Your Honor, I can provide what no one else here can on Taranee's behalf."
"Really?" Judge Rizoli's eyes rounded in mild surprise, as she replied, "Hold that thought until we can get you back in the witness seat. This just became very interesting."
"Jack," she said to the bailiff, "you know what to do."
The bailiff ushered Peter from the witness chair and waved me forward. I swallowed the lump in my throat and tightened my grip on my portfolio and strode forward to take the stand once more.
"So young man it's your turn. Impress me."
"I...I...I want to marry Taranee and take care off her for the rest of our lives. I will financially support her and make sure she goes to college to achieve her dreams. That is we can achieve our dreams together," I stated in a rush to get the words out before my nerves failed me or my mouth refused to work.
"Well that is impressive." mused the judge, "But, you do understand that your girlfriend is in this situation because of your relationship right? If you two would have just kept holding hands, odds are good that things never would have escalated to this point in her family home."
I ducked my head, the truth of her words was inescapable.
"Yeah, you know exactly what I'm talking about. At least you have the good sense to be abashed. Now explain how you hoped to convince this court to grant two minors emancipation so that they can marry?
This is for Taranee, there's no turning back now, so I began, "Since I met her, Taranee's mother has looked down on me and swore I'd never be worthy of her. So for the last two years, I've been making investments with my dad's help. I'm really good at it and have been saving up because I have always planned on marrying her."
"I borrowed start-up capital from my dad to start my own business and have saved up a substantial nest egg. If you allow us to marry, it is more than enough to support us through college if we spend wisely."
The judge's eyes widened at my words, she held out her hand and said, "Prove it."
I handed her my portfolio, in it were my bank records and maturity schedule for my mid and long term investments. She thumbed through the pages and muttered, "Impressive, very impressive. You have some serious talent at day trading."
I waited patiently if not uncomfortably for her to look up. When she did, I searched her face for a sign to tell me I'd gained her favor.
"Okay, so you are Romeo to her Juliet...now. What happens when you get bored or find a new, more interesting love? Think carefully before you answer."
"Your Honor, Taranee is the only girl for me. For her I have separated myself from old friends that were no good for me and my future. I've never regretted it either. She is the direction of my future. It's because of her I've been able to grow my personal wealth to 1.6 million dollars in the last two plus years. I did it all for her. Everything I do is for her."
Cheers!
6/28/2015 6:20 PM PST