“Great! Let’s make something to eat together, the three of us.”
That afternoon they cooked rice with egg. It wasn’t a restaurant meal, but the three of them ate it at the table like a family that, despite everything, kept trying.
Two weeks later, Tomás received a notice from family court. A hearing had been scheduled to review the status of the temporary custody case. Tomás had a feeling something was happening. Since Leticia had begun therapy, the legal process had moved much faster than he expected.
That morning he woke up early, made them breakfast, took Santiago to school, and left Alma with a trusted neighbor. Then he headed to the courthouse with a folder under his arm. Inside were all the medical and psychological reports, along with the social worker’s letter of support.
Leticia was already there. She was dressed neatly but simply. They hadn’t seen each other since that day at the hospital. When she noticed him arrive, she looked up cautiously.
Neither of them said a word.
The judge entered promptly.
“This hearing concerns the current status of the children, Santiago Gutiérrez Vargas and Alma Gutiérrez Vargas, who are presently under their father’s temporary custody. Their mother, Leticia Vargas, has submitted a request to reinstate shared custody after beginning psychological treatment and meeting the conditions previously established by this court.”
Tomás kept his gaze forward. He had no intention of speaking. Leticia’s attorney spoke first.
“Your Honor, my client has strictly followed the medical team’s recommendations. She has remained stable, completed the first phase of her treatment, and received approval from the Emotional Support Center for Mothers. She now has her own residence—safe and separate—and she has completely severed contact with her former partner. She is not requesting full custody. She is only asking for the chance to gradually resume contact with her children, under supervision.”
The judge nodded.
“Does the father wish to add anything?”
Tomás rose to his feet.
“I don’t object to the children seeing their mother. I only ask that the process be handled gently, that someone supervise everything, and that no one rush things. My kids are still afraid. They still wake up crying… but I know they need their mother. And if she’s truly making the effort, I won’t stand in the way of them getting her back.”
The judge reviewed the documents for several minutes.
“Very well. Considering the reports and the cooperation shown by both parties, the court approves a gradual visitation plan. The first visits will take place at the family center with a therapist present. We will review the situation weekly. In three months, we will reconvene to determine whether a new shared custody arrangement can be established—provided everything continues to go well.”
Leticia closed her eyes briefly, as though finally releasing a breath she had been holding for days. Tomás signed the paperwork without a word. As they exited the courtroom, Leticia caught up with him in the hallway.
“Thanks for not making a scene.
” “I didn’t come here to fight. I came for them.
” “I’m not going to screw this up this time.”
Tomás gave a small nod.
Leave a Comment