Two weeks later, the local courthouse was busy and crowded.
David sat beside Mark inside the brightly lit room.
Lily was staying safely with her grandmother down the street.
Elena sat across the room with two legal attorneys present.
She looked neat, calm, and composed in a white suit.
The judge entered the room and called the case to order.
Judge: We are here regarding emergency custody and protection orders.
Mark: Your Honor, we submit clear video evidence today.
Judge: The defense may present their opening statement first.
Elena's attorney stood up and adjusted his suit coat.
Lawyer: My client was a loving stepmother who panicked during a dangerous moment.
Mark: The high-definition footage shows clear intent to neglect.
Judge: Play the video footage for the court now.
The large monitor on the wall turned on clearly.
The video played in complete silence for everyone to see.
The room watched as Elena nudged the girl near the ledge.
They saw her step back as the little girl wobbled.
Gasps broke out among the spectators sitting in the back.
Elena stared straight at the table, refusing to look up.
Judge: Mrs. Miller, do you have an explanation for this?
Elena: I was scared, Your Honor, I froze up!
Mark: She also attempted to alter his estate paperwork that week.
Judge: Is this true regarding the life insurance documents?
Lawyer: We request a brief recess to consult, Your Honor.
Judge: Request denied, this court needs immediate answers.
David stood up slowly, looking directly at his former wife.
David: She put my daughter in danger for money.
Elena: That is a complete lie, David!
David: The evidence is right in front of the judge.
Elena: You never loved me, you only cared about her!
David: She is my child, and I protect my family.
Judge: Order in the court right now!
The judge slammed the wooden gavel down hard on the desk.
The truth was entirely out in the open now.
Elena had no valid excuses left to offer anyone.