“No.” I opened the cardboard folder and pulled out the first stack of papers, clipped neatly with a bent paper clip. “I was planning to ask the court to look at the timeline first.”
That was when Victor Hale stopped smiling.
It was only for half a second, but I saw it.
His mouth tightened. His eyes flicked to the folder. Then to my mother. Then back to me.
Judge Warren tapped his pen once against the desk.
“Mr. Latham, this is an administrative wrongful termination and retaliation hearing. The court has broad discretion in allowing a self-represented party to present evidence. I will not permit the child to act as counsel. But I will permit Ms. Moore to consult with her daughter and submit organized exhibits, provided Ms. Moore speaks for herself where necessary.”
Latham’s expression cooled.
