Ms. Hart closed the folder halfway. “I hear you. Don’t get me wrong. But love isn’t always enough.”
“Then teach me what else I need. Help me.”
“I can only do so much, Rowan. But remember, a court date will be set, whether we like it or not.”
“It isn’t that simple.”
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***
Court was worse.
Aunt Denise arrived in pearls and a cream coat, with Uncle Warren carrying a folder like they had already won.
“I love those children,” Aunt Denise told the judge, dabbing under one dry eye. “But Rowan is a child himself. I can take the youngest two until things settle. I’m willing and able.”
Phoebe grabbed Lila’s sleeve.
“The youngest two? Do you even know their names?” I asked. “Why are you talking about them like they’re luggage?”
“I love those children.”
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Aunt Denise turned to me. “Sweetheart, don’t be selfish. You can’t save everyone.”
