The judge reviews more papers. The silence stretches. Every second feels like an hour.
Finally, she looks up.
“Based on the evidence presented, the home study report, and Zinnia’s testimony, I’m granting permanent guardianship to Tigerlily Lopez, effective immediately.”
Relief crashes through me so hard I almost fall.
“Miss Lopez will retain full legal and physical custody of Zinnia Maria Lopez. This guardianship will remain in effect unless circumstances change significantly or until Zinnia reaches the age of eighteen.”
Marcus is smiling. Jax squeezes my hand under the table.
“Miss Lopez, do you understand your responsibilities?”
I stand. “Yes, Your Honor.”
“Good. Take care of your sister. She’s lucky to have you.” The judge bangs the gavel. “This hearing is adjourned.”
“Thank you,” I mutter under my breath.
Everyone stands. The judge leaves.
And then Zinnia’s running to me. She throws her arms around my waist and squeezes.
“We get to stay together?” she asks, crying.
“Yeah. We get to stay together.”
I’m crying too, squeezing her back. I can’t stop the tears. I feel like I can’t breathe.
Jax’s hand is on my back.
Marcus is packing up his papers. “Congratulations, Tigerlily. You did great.”
“Thank you so much. For everything, Marcus.”
“We’re not done yet. I’ll file the final paperwork this week. You’ll get copies of everything.”
“Okay.”
When we walk out of the courtroom, Marcus says, “I have more news. About your mother’s appeal.”
I look up. “What?”
“It’s going through. The hearing is scheduled for next month. I’m very optimistic about our chances.”
My knees feel weak. “Really?”
“Really. I’ll be in touch with more details. But for now, celebrate. You earned this.”
He shakes my hand. Then Jax’s. He smiles at Zinnia. Then leaves.
Zephyr and Callum are waiting in the hallway. They weren’t allowed in the courtroom, but they came anyway.
“Well?” Callum asks.
“We won,” Jax says.
“Fuck yeah!” Callum picks up Zinnia and spins her around. “Hear that, Zinni? You’re stuck with us now.”
