The Missing Heir(110)

                Zachary tipped his chin and grinned up at him, gently patting the side of Cole’s cheek. “Gak baw. Gak. Gak.”

                Amber nearly burst into tears.

                “I agree, partner,” Cole whispered softly. “I agree.”

                Everybody looked to the judge.

                Even Roth’s lawyer seemed dazed.

                Destiny put her hand on Cole’s shoulder.

                The judge cleared his throat. “I find...” He paused, adjusting his collar, then rearranging a few sheets of paper in front of him.

                He glanced to the bath picture that was still up on the screen. “This is a very unique situation. And I recognize that there is a lot of money at stake. I understand that Coast Eagle Airlines needs to be run effectively. And I understand that guardianship of Zachary Henderson is pivotal to the operation of the company and therefore to the safety and livelihood of thousands of employees and passengers.”

                Destiny’s hand tightened on Cole’s shoulder.

                He turned to glance at Amber, and the worried expression on his face made her stomach sink. She blinked against tears all over again.

                “However,” said the judge, “the purpose of this hearing is to determine the best guardian for Zachary Henderson. I cannot let any of the complicating factors impact his well-being and his future.” He lifted the gavel. “Therefore, I find in favor of the plaintiff. I grant full and permanent guardianship of Zachary Henderson to Cole Henderson.” The gavel came down.

                Amber didn’t hear a thing as she burst from her seat at the same time Cole turned to face her.

                She rushed through the little gate and flung her arms around both of them, her heart overflowing with gratitude.

                Cole chuckled as he held her tight. “I can’t believe you did it.”

                “Did what?”

                “Turned Zachary into a puppy.”

                She pulled back and grinned. “I was so scared. But he went straight to you.”

                “You’re a genius.”

                “It was a big risk.”

                “It worked.”

                “Well done, you two,” Destiny chimed in, clapping one hand on each of them.

                “Well done, you,” said Amber in return. “You were brilliant.”

                “That was a great idea.”

                “So was using the pictures on my phone.”

                Roth marched past them, stone-faced, staring straight ahead.

                Cole watched his back for a few seconds. “It’s going to be an interesting day at the office tomorrow.”

                “I’m going to worry about that tomorrow,” said Amber.

                Cole gave her a nod. “Agreed. Tonight, we celebrate.” A trace of concern seemed to flit through his eyes. “Tomorrow, we figure out the rest.”





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