The lawyer opened his mouth to protest further, but a single look from Judge Dawson silenced him. The courtroom bore witness to a man who had been stripped of his defenses, left vulnerable by a child and her faithful companion.

The judge turned back to Isla, her gaze softening. “Is there anything else you’d like us to know, Isla? We’re here to ensure you’re safe and happy.”

Isla hesitated, looking at her foster parents, who smiled back reassuringly. “I want to stay with Jim and Megan. They make me feel safe. They love Moose, and they love me.”