the summer before college. I left after giving notice because I was returning to school.”
I looked at Dad.
He stared at the table.
“The petitioners also claim that I have no meaningful professional experience.”
I turned back toward the judge.
“I have spent years practicing law as a military attorney. I’ve provided legal advice, handled demanding assignments, and maintained continuous professional responsibilities.”
I stopped.
For a second, I heard Nana’s voice.
You don’t have to keep proving you’re worth listening to.
I looked at my parents again.
Then I said the sentence I’d been holding inside for years.
“They didn’t know that because they never asked.”
The courtroom was silent.
My mother’s face changed.
Not dramatically.
She simply looked smaller in her chair.
My father raised his head.
“That’s not fair,” he said.
Judge Morrison looked toward him.
“Mr. Parker.”
Dad ignored the warning.
