“That doesn’t seem to be a case for why Mrs Lee would want custody of her daughter,” said the judge, interrupting the attorney again.

“Your honor, the girl is clearly troubled, and no doubt the death of her father and sister may have played a role in that too. Her inability to adjust to society and the potential danger she possesses to others would be justification for Mrs. Lee to seek institutional care for her daughter should she regain custody of Annabelle.”

That was the last straw for me. He had pulled out the age-old threat mother had always held over my head when she was at her angriest. Mother’s plan was clear. She wanted to have her cake and eat it too by getting me locked up while still getting the monthly checks. I stood too fast for Aunt Lydia to stop me.

“That’s a lie! She just wants the money!”