Chapter 21 - FAMILY COURT
Emily regained full physical custody after a structured period of assessment.
Not instantly.
Not permanently withheld.
She completed safety planning.
Maintained no contact with Derek.
Moved residences.
Followed medical care.
Allowed Noah space to speak without asking him for case details.
That last part was hard.
She wanted to know everything.
Mariah told her:
“Don’t make him testify at home.”
Excellent phrase.
Noah returned to Emily’s apartment after six weeks with Megan.
First night, he could not sleep.
Emily left every interior door open.
Noah asked:
“Can I close mine?”
“Yes.”
“Lock it?”
“Yes.”
He locked it.
May you like
Emily cried silently in the kitchen because in the old house Derek did not allow locked doors.
Freedom can sound like a click.
