Invisible String

18

I carefully folded the white dress back into my suitcase, trying to calm the flutter of nerves in my chest. I knew I had to stay focused. This court day wasn't just about me or Travis - it was about Lily and Mira, and their future. I glanced down at Mira, peacefully sleeping in her bassinet, her tiny chest rising and falling in slow, steady breaths. Somehow, that little life made everything else feel more urgent, more real.

Travis came back from grabbing tampons and slipped the package into my purse without a word, giving me a reassuring smile. "You've got this," he said softly.

I returned the smile, trying to believe him. I stood up and stretched, then checked my phone again. A quick message popped up from Tree, asking if everything was still on schedule. I replied, letting her know we'd be ready to leave in an hour.

Lily stirred beside me, rubbing her eyes sleepily. I scooped her up gently and whispered, "Mommy's going to be okay, sweet girl." She just blinked up at me, still sleepy but sensing the tension in the room.

Travis took Mira in his arms and started rocking her quietly, humming softly. I took a deep breath and pulled the white dress back out. I laid out some pads, extra underwear, and a spare dress in case of emergency. I was determined to be prepared - no surprises today.

As I dressed, Travis helped with Lily, distracting her with silly faces and quiet songs. The moment was peaceful, even with the tension lurking beneath the surface. I kissed Mira's soft cheek and whispered, "Let's get through today, baby girl."

With Travis by my side, I felt a flicker of strength. This day might be hard, but we were ready. Whatever happened, we'd face it together.

I took one last look in the mirror before we left the hotel room. The white dress fit perfectly, but I still felt uneasy about the possibility of leaking during court. I'd never been so afraid of something so simple - it wasn't just about me anymore; it was about making sure I looked composed, strong, and ready.

Travis noticed the hesitation in my eyes and stepped closer. "Hey," he said softly, brushing a stray lock of hair behind my ear. "If anything happens, it's okay. You don't have to be perfect. You're already doing more than anyone could ask."

His words settled the knot in my stomach a little. I nodded and grabbed my purse, checking once more that the pads were in there.

Lily clung to my leg as we made our way to the car. Travis carefully strapped Mira's car seat into the back, covering her with a light blanket. Lily's fingers twined with mine, grounding me.

On the drive to court, Travis kept the mood light, telling stories about when he was a kid. I smiled, but my mind was elsewhere - rehearsing what I'd say, preparing for whatever Emma might say.

When we arrived, the usual flood of reporters was waiting, but today, I barely noticed. I was focused on one thing: protecting our girls.

Inside the courthouse, the sterile air felt heavier than usual. I held Lily's hand tightly as we sat down, Mira quiet in her carrier beside me.

The judge called the case, and as Emma entered, I caught the flicker of guilt in her eyes. My heart raced. This was it.

Whatever happened next, I knew Travis and I would fight for our family - no matter what.

The courtroom was silent - heavy, suffocating, and thick with anticipation. I could feel my heart pounding in my chest as I held Mira a little tighter in my arms. Travis stood beside me, one hand resting gently on my lower back. Lily was on the bench beside us, her legs swinging and completely unaware of the weight of the moment.

The judge cleared his throat, flipping through the file slowly, and then finally looked up over his glasses.

"In light of the evidence presented," he began, voice steady, "the testimony from both parties, and the documents showing voluntary surrender of parental rights... this court finds that it is in the best interest of both children to remain in the permanent custody of Mr. and Mrs. Kelce."