Chapter 456 - Court (1) (1/2)

As we did our homework, Coach called Zeke to let us know that he was canceling practice due to some disturbances around the school. Meaning, the reporters had shown up and were looking for me. I don't get why though. Did they just want to take my picture? It's not like I knew anything about Jeremy.

With no practice planned, Mrs. Atkins was adamant about the school work being done by dinner time. She watched over us diligently, keeping a close eye on the twins and their antics. Only when we were done did she let them go to the backyard to play catch while she started to cook dinner.

I sat on the back porch and watched the four of them do a few drills. Kyle spent most of his time pitching again, while Dave took a break. When I asked why, he said he didn't want to get hurt before the big game on Thursday. That made me look at the cut on my arm. I could possibly miss Thursday's game. Either because of my arm or because of this whole drama. With a groan, I leaned back and stared up at the sky, watching the clouds. The sky was slowly getting darker and darker. What to do, what to do...

I tried relaxing, just listening to the boys play, but it made me feel sad. What if this was the last time I would get to hear this? Or see them? Would the state really be able to take me away? Technically they could...they placed me with the Atkins to begin with.

”Jake.” Mr. Atkins leaned over me, casting a shadow on my face. His expression looked a little happy so I sat up. ”Mr. Pickens called. The injunction went through. You won't be going anywhere just yet.”

I let out a puff of air. ”That's good. Great.” I laughed a little nervously. I got up and brushed the dust off my clothes.

Mr. Atkins patted my head. ”Tomorrow morning a judge will look it over. He might call us in, but don't worry. Mr. Pickens said those are just formalities. They don't have any reason to take you.”

”We get to keep Jake?!” Noah hollered. He ran up from behind and started to swing me around. The twins weren't too far behind, ready to join in.

Mr. Atkins chuckled. ”It's not over yet, but it's a step in the right direction. We'll get to put our two cents in before they make any decision.” He waved his hand. ”Let's go inside. Your mom is probably ready with dinner.”

The three crazy ones pushed and pulled me along, celebrating like I was officially adopted. Like I was already one of them. But I heard Mr. Atkins...it was just a step.

***

Wednesday morning, the call came. We were due in court at 9am. And by 'we', it only meant me, and the adults. Mrs. Atkins told the boys that they couldn't miss school for two days in a row.

”Don't forget to turn in your work and Jake's too.” Mrs. Atkins instructed Noah as they prepared to leave. ”And if anyone asks you guys about Jake, just tell them it's a personal matter.” Her eyes narrowed on Noah. ”Don't you dare get into any fights.”

Zeke stood next to Noah. ”Don't worry, Mom. I'll make sure to keep an eye on him.” He looked down at me. ”Don't move your arm so much. Tomorrow we'll play.”

Yeah, maybe. I gave a small nod to show that I understood. Coach hadn't called about what the league or CIF committee has said about my participation yet so it wasn't up to me to decide.

The boys left for school.

My anxiety grew as it got closer to our court time. Mr. and Mrs. Atkins had stuff to do before we left so it gave me plenty of time to overthink. What would be said? Would the judge change his mind? Who all will be there?

By the time we got to the courthouse, I was on edge. We met up with Mr. Pickens in front of the building before walking in.

”You three will sit at the table with me.” Mr. Pickens instructed as we walked down a hall towards our designated room. ”This will be a simple matter before the judge so it won't last too long. Be quiet and let me do all the talking unless the judge speaks to you directly.”

”Okay.” We three nodded. We followed him into a courtroom that had only a handful of people in the seats. Some I recognized: Dr. Moore and Mr. Duncan.

”Mr. Duncan won't be representing the state?” Mr. Atkins whispered as we went up front and sat at a table on the right.

”No. He's not a lawyer.” Mr. Pickens placed his briefcase before him. Mr. Atkins sat beside him, then me, and Mrs. Atkins. ”He's only Jake's caseworker. He acts on behalf of the state for Jake's best interest, but with the state being his employer, it's a conflict of interest to have him speak.”