The Judge’s Unexpected Move

Something in Ana’s eyes made the judge hesitate. She leaned forward, studying Ana carefully, and asked, “Are you sure?” Years of experience had taught her how to spot insincerity, and she wasn’t convinced that Ana’s words matched her true feelings. When Ana held firm, determined to stick to her response, the judge made an unexpected decision.

Adoption hearings usually moved quickly, wrapping up in minutes, but this time was different. The judge announced a short recess, her tone leaving no room for argument. Then, just as everyone began to rise, she added something that sent a ripple of shock through the room. No one could have predicted what came next.