The woman I helped is the very judge assigned to my case.
A revelation that has tangled our lives in ways I didn’t expect.
There’s a clear divide between the people making decisions and the lives those decisions disrupt.
I wonder about the impact of that night, whether it will sway her decision.
Or if we’re just two people caught in circumstances beyond our control.
The escalation has been slow but steady.
It started months ago with a missed payment on the rent that spiraled into child support arrears.
Then came the social service review, questions about my living situation and my ability to provide.
Next were the court hearings, each one more intimidating and formal.
I’ve tried compliance and cooperation, but it never feels like enough.
