Outside the courthouse, Valerie strolled down the lane, her heels clicking on the pavement. Ruby bounced ahead, carefree, her pigtails bobbing with each step. Suddenly, she turned, walking with her back while asking:
"Mommy, what were they saying in that courtroom?" she asked, curiosity sparkling in her big black eyes.
Valerie shook her head. "When you've grown up, you'll understand, but for now, you don't need to know these things."
Ruby's curiosity seemed to dissipate, but her thoughts lingered. She didn't stop asking because she wanted to, rather, it was because her daddy begged her not to stress her Mommy.
"Okay," she said, skipping alongside Valerie. After a short silence, she asked again. "Mommy, where is Daddy? Why didn't he come with us?"
Valerie chuckled softly. "Why does your daddy need to accompany us to the cafeteria? It's just a three-minute walk, behind the court."
