The barrister stammered, fumbling with his notes, clearly reconsidering his words.
The judge rapped his gavel once, silencing the brewing argument.
Josephine’s own barrister, Mr. Whitmore, took the opening.
"My Lord," Whitmore said smoothly, stepping forward. "While the opposing counsel casts aspersions upon Lady Josephine, I ask that we turn our attention to the man so desperate to wrest the child from her care."
He turned to the judge.
"Titus Everleigh is no steward of fortunes. Indeed, he has squandered his own inheritance at the gaming tables. And it must be noted, should something happen to the young earl, Titus himself would inherit his title and vast estate."
A ripple of shock ran through the courtroom.
The judge raised a brow. "Is this true?"
The barrister for Titus fumbled. "My lord—"
"I have seen the ledgers," Whitmore pressed. "And I have testimony from those to whom he owes debts." He let the silence hang. Then, with a final measured tone, he added, "If we are speaking of character, I would ask the court which is more damning—an unmarried woman devoted to her nephew, or a man who sees him as a means to wealth?"
Josephine held her breath.
The judge leaned back, his fingers steepled.
“Lady Josephine,” he said, his tone measured but firm. “Your barrister makes a compelling argument, and the law favors afather’s will. But the court must be convinced that you are capable of fulfilling the role of guardian. What say you?”
Josephine rose, her hands trembling only slightly as she faced the judge. This was her chance. Perhaps the only opportunity to convince the judge that she was the best choice for Edward.
“My Lord,” she said, her voice steady despite the weight of the moment. “I love my nephew as if he were my own child. Since my return, I have cared for him, ensured his well-being, and I will dedicate my life to his happiness and security. He is not a burden to me—he is my family. I ask only that the court honor his father’s wishes and allow me to continue protecting him.”
“But are you capable of protecting his inheritance? Do you know how to manage his estates? Advise him and educate him as befits a peer of the realm?” the judge continued, implacable. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Titus’ superior smirk.
A long, unbearable silence stretched through the room.
“I will, of course, assist my fiancée and future wife with all the duties of managing her nephew’s inheritance,” Michael spoke, his voice calm and confident. “Surely you don’t doubt my competence in that regard, Your Honor?”
The judge flustered. “No, of course not, Your Grace! But you have many responsibilities already, managing your own vast estates.”
“These responsibilities I assume gladly, in the service of my beloved,” Michael said, looking at her.
“Lady Josephine counts with my help as well,” Lord Rutledge declared from the back of the room.
“Who might you be, and what is your interest in this case, sir?” demanded the judge.
“I am Lord Rutledge. The child’s maternal grandfather, Your Honor.”
The judge’s eyes widened at this. His gaze darted between the formidable duke and imposing lord who had pledged their help and allegiance to her.
"Very well. The court finds that Lady Josephine Everleigh shall retain full guardianship of the minor child, with all the legal authority therein."
Josephine exhaled, the relief so profound it nearly stole her balance.
“I will also appoint,” the judge continued, “His Grace, the Duke of Aycliffe and Lord Rutledge as overseers and trustees, together with Lady Josephine, of Lord Dunhaven’s estate until he reaches his majority.”
Michael inclined his head in acknowledgment, and so did Lord Rutledge. The world tilted around her, and she reached out for Michael.
In an instant, he was already beside her, steadying her with the barest touch.
"You did it," he murmured. “You won. Edward is yours. Ours.”
