“Evidence-based care failed Amelia for three years.” I turned to the judge. “Dr. Frost testified earlier about how ‘unreachable’ Amelia is. But Amelia spoke to me within minutes. Not because I’m smarter or more qualified. Because I wasn’t trying to fix her.”
“This is emotional manipulation,” Victoria’s lawyer said.
“No. It’s empathy. There’s a difference.”
The judge leaned forward. “Ms. Carter, if the court grants Mr. Sterling custody, would you be willing to continue working with Amelia?”
I looked at Richard. He was watching me with desperate hope.
“Yes, Your Honor.”
“Even without compensation?”
“Especially without compensation. The second this becomes about money, it stops being about Amelia.”
The judge ruled in Richard’s favor. Victoria lost custody. She left the courthouse spitting threats about appeals.
Richard caught up with me in the parking lot. “Thank you. I know what you risked by—”
“I didn’t do it for you.”
“I know.” He took a breath. “But I’m still starting that foundation. For kids like Amelia. And I need someone who actually understands trauma to run it.”
“I told you, I don’t want your money.”