Zaden’s voice was softer, more hesitant in the recording, a stark contrast to the assertive words his father spoke. “But, Dad, I like being with Mom. I like it at Mom’s house.” There was a pause, a rustling sound as if someone was moving, and then Damian spoke again, his voice firmer, almost threatening. “Zaden, you’ll do this for me. You understand?”

The recording ended, and the air seemed to vibrate with the revelation. The judge’s eyes softened, and he turned his gaze back to Damian, whose face had lost its confident composure and was now a mask of disbelief and shock. The lawyer beside him looked down, visibly uncomfortable with the turn of events.

I finally exhaled, the breath I didn’t realize I’d been holding escaping in a rush. My heart ached for Zaden, torn between two parents, yet I felt a powerful surge of pride at his bravery. My eyes met his, and I offered him the warmest smile I could muster, silently promising him that whatever happened next, he wouldn’t have to face it alone.