Emma

As the solid doors to the house opened and we all progressed toward Rett’s front office, the soft music and Miss Guidry’s excitement mixed with loud voices coming from down the hall. Rett’s and Ian’s posture changed, our steps staggered, and Miss Guidry reached for my hand.

“Oh no,” she said, “Mrs. Ramses, come with me.”

Judge McBride seemed confused.

“You too, Judge McBride,” Miss Guidry said, trying to ...