In the gallery, Tina gulps and drops her head. Kit’s hand on hers offers silent comfort.

Up front, Up front, Kelly leans in, encouraging. “So, you had firsthand knowledge of how stressful and hurtful that experience was for Ms. Porter…”

“Yes, Bette barely got through that time, and she was an adult…. I can’t image allowing my son to get close to Tina Kennard and then having to comfort him and make him understand what happen if she ever has the urge to leave without warning for another six years again…”

Kelly nods and walks over and grabs a small stack of papers. “I would like to introduce exhibit A into evidence your honor…” She says as she slides one of the documents in front of Joyce, then walks up and hands one to the judge before handing a copy to Michelle.

“Mrs. Adams Porter, do you recognize the document and just presented to you…” Kelly asks.

Michelle nods. “Yeah, it’s a text message I sent to Bette during the early stages of our relationship…”

“Will you please read the highlighted part for us please?” Kelly asks.

Michelle nods and the looks down at the paper in her hand. “Baby I know you’re still working through hurt and anger. I heard you the other night when you explained that you’re weary about getting into a committed relationship again. I get it, you have every right to be hesitant, anyone would be after what happened, but I promise I won’t hurt you baby. I know you’re still healing but please just let me in and allow me to help with the healing. I’m falling just a little bit in love with you so I’m not going anywhere….”

“And obviously you and Ms. Porter moved ahead with your relationship. Eventually getting married and having a son…” Kelly says.

Michelle smiles at the memory. “Yes…. we had a great life, great marriage. Especially when Mickey was born, we had a nearly perfect life….and although our family is now broken, I will always do what I have to do to protect our son, and I strongly believe that means keeping him away from Tina Kennard….”

Kelly gives Michelle a small. “Thank you…”