8. Fraudulent Imposition.

MARCH 26, 2013 | 2:46pm —

INT. CARLTON BLACK PREPARATORY. ENTRANCE LOBBY. DAY.

HALO stands before the reception area, with Principal Edwards and a young man. Handsome, spry, and cursed to smile uncomfortably, Carlisle Barios speaks in a low voice to Halo and the principal. The drab grey suit he wears displays no enthusiasm for his job with its many wrinkles, but he carries a serious expression that Halo bets on.

Carlisle Barios:

Jessie will only be held at the hospital overnight, and I have sent over a colleague to his home with Boston P.D, to bring his mother in so we can get a better understanding.

The man addresses Halo, who frowns. Less than pleased with the initiative.

Halo Noel:

And what of the stepfather?

Carlisle Barios:

He will be detained, following the investigation.

— Halo had always felt children needed safety, compassion, and love. He had seen Jessie for who he was, just like Gael. His childhood was easy, and his parents were loving, doting people. Ones who let Halo be himself and loved him unconditionally. Though, he was selfish enough to want that for every child.

Halo Noel:

What happens to Jessie after?

Carlisle Barios:

After being properly processed, if they're lucky, we'll find a foster home.

Halo Noel:

His mother?

The man hesitates and Halo inclines his head and narrows his gaze.

Halo Noel:

What are her claims?

Principal Janice Edwards:

She didn't return any of my calls. I scheduled a visit, but it was to the free time I have within my schedule for tomorrow.

Halo Noel:

I want to see Jessie. I need him to better understand what is going on. I fear this will be too overwhelming for him.

Carlisle Barios:

I don't think it's a clever idea to split too much of his focus right now.

Principal Janice Edwards:

What he needs, is to see the teacher who reported this. He was able to coax Jessie Lio into talking about his situation.

Halo Noel:

Gael Slater was the one who brought this to my attention. Still, the details are necessary.

Halo Noel:

It's clear we need to help this boy while he is here with us at school.

Carlisle shakes his head, but he sighs then and closes his eyes for a moment. His phone chimes and he pulls it out and a glint of familiarity flashes in his eyes.

Carlisle Barios:

This is my colleague right now. I can't promise you anything, but let's see what happens in the next few hours.

Carlisle dismisses himself and walks to the edge of the room, where a moderate, lavish lounge-like area opens. Brightened by high windows, plush couches, and seating, with floor-to-ceiling wooden shelves, stacked neatly with a myriad of books and other volumes.

Halo sighs, then turns to Principal Edwards, who mirrors his worried look.

Halo Noel:

I must make a few calls.

Principal Edwards sighs and looks away, but the bell goes off and the woman rolls her eyes.

Principal Janice Edwards:

I need to make some arrangements.

Gael Slater:

Mr Noel!

Gael runs into the reception area and runs into Halo's arms that instinctively wrap around him. The boy pulls away, tugging at his lapels.

Gael Slater (In Modern Arabic):

Where's Jessie?

Halo Noel (In Modern Arabic):

He is at the hospital, Gael. Thank the skies you took him to the nurse. It seems his injuries were worse than we could anticipate.

Gael Slater: (In Modern Arabic):

How many ribs?

Halo Noel:

Two.

He sighs and Gael shakes his head, but Principal Edwards watches the exchange with curiosity and intrigue.

Gael Slater:

I'm going to ask dad if he can take me to the hospital. Jessie's going to need a friend. This whole thing is a mess.

Halo Noel:

Indeed, it is, Gael.

Lucian Slater (In Distance):

Gael?

Gael and Halo turn to the entrance, where Lucian enters, wearing his overalls and work boots.

Gael Slater:

Hey, dad.

Principal Janice Edwards:

Good... afternoon, Mr Slater.

Lucian strides over to them, but he notices the sullen look in Halo's grey eyes.

Lucian Slater:

Howdy, Principal Edwards.

The woman smiles, almost in a dreamy state when he passes her a wan smile, but he glances down at Gael with concern.

Lucian Slater:

What's goin on with Jessie? Your call seemed a little cryptic and rushed.

Ashamed, Halo tries to keep his gaze averted, but Lucian's kind demeanour coaxes him to look directly into his eyes.

Lucian Slater:

Halo, what's wrong?

Halo Noel:

You were right. Jessie is being abused, and I almost let it get fatal.

Lucian sighs, and his stoic gaze fades.

Lucian Slater:

None of this is your fault. You chose to stay out of folk's business, which I personally think was hard for you.

He smiles, but Halo scoffs and shakes his head.

Halo Noel:

I do not wish to stand here and be made fun of, Mr Slater. This is serious.

Lucian Slater:

Yes, it is, and you bein frustrated is mighty fine, but I would never make fun of you.

Halo whirls on Lucian, but his gaze softens when the man's stare returns to one of seriousness. He nods, and Lucian returns it but notices that the woman observed them with an unsaid perspective.

Principal Janice Edwards:

I had no idea you and Mr Noel were... friends. It seemed you two bonded over Jessie's situation the other day?

Gael Slater:

Yeah, they bonded, that's all cool and whatnot. Can we go to the hospital?

Halo Noel:

Mr Barios-.

Lucian Slater:

That's exactly where we need to be, buddy.

Lucian looks over at Halo. At how Gael sidles up to him.

Halo Noel:

Can I tally?

Lucian Slater:

Refuse to lay your head in the sand?

Halo nods and Lucian sweeps out his hand in gesture. Halo hesitates but Gael grabs his father's hand, then his. Pulling them towards the entrance with eager steps. As they arrive outside and proceed to descend the stairs, Carlisle Barios exits. Flustered. Ashen with something close to grief.

Carlisle Barios:

Mr Noel!

Halo stops and so does Lucian and Gael.

Carlisle Barios:

A fight led to... a fatal outcome. Chai Jīn-Lio was killed in an escalated altercation.

Gael

& Halo:

Oh my god.

The boy's eyes glisten, but Halo crouches and pulls the boy into his arms. Ignoring Lucian's presence and expected scrutiny as Gael's small body shakes with sobs, but Lucian gently rubs Gael's back, unabated by any concern he has with Halo.

Lucian Slater:

We're goin to the hospital to see him, and don't tell us we can't. I know how you social workers are, but that little boy gon need his only friend.

Halo Noel:

We must.

Halo and Lucian exchange grief-stricken looks feeling their hearts constrict in their chests.

Carlisle Barios:

I'm not going to stop you. This just... became a whole lot messier.

Lucian Slater:

Where is Ryu being held?

Carlisle Barios:

At a local facility, but I'm afraid I can't disclose the location for safety reasons. I'm only turning a blind eye because it's clear your family is close to Jessie.

Lucian Slater:

We ain't... actually a family, but-.

Carlisle Barios:

Do me a favour. Don't tell that to the nurses. Besides, for all we know, you are a family.

He points at Lucian.

Carlisle Barios:

He's your husband and this handsome little fella's stepdad.

He gestures to Gael.

Gael & Halo:

We are not related.

Lucian's eyes bulge, then he stares at them while Carlisle mirrors his confused glance.

Carlisle Barios:

Wait, you're really not a family? Because that could easily be the scenario here, no lie.

He looks at them closer.

Halo Noel:

Unfortunately, I'm cursed with caring for Gael with... justified restrictions.

Lucian Slater:

No you don't.

Halo glances at Lucian in surprise, and he nods tentatively.

Halo Noel:

Ok. Then I will meet you both at the hospital before they scoop Jessie away to the facility. We have but a short window.

Lucian Slater:

Why don't you just ride with us, Angel? Save the ozone layer?

He smirks, something playful and daring in his eyes.

Halo Noel:

I am nobody to argue with eco-health.

—

MARCH 26, 2013 | 12:46pm —

INT. BOSTON GENERAL HOSPITAL. WOUND CARE ROOM 18. DAY.

Gael Slater (Quietly):

They actually believed we were a family.

Gael chuckles as he skips ahead of Lucian and Halo. They walk side-by-side, careful to avoid each other's gazes. Halo scans each door in the small ward, with modern glass doors, equipped with blinds for privacy. Many opened, some concealed for private care.

Halo Noel:

Perhaps we should not announce that until we are at least partially satisfied with Jessie's conditions.

Lucian Slater:

I don't think we'll ever be satisfied. I've only known that little boy for a couple weeks, and I'm... I'm terrified for him.

Halo Noel:

If I was not so complacent-.

Lucian Slater:

Would you stop tryna blame yourself?

Lucian chances a glance at Halo, stepping behind him when two nurses stroll by. He gently pulls Halo to the side, staring determinately at him.

Lucian Slater:

You here now. Adamant to help, even if it's just with your presence.

Halo Noel:

I know, but what if Gael had not seen that bruise?

Lucian Slater:

He would have eventually. Have you met my son?

Halo Noel:

He is relentlessly smart.

Lucian Slater:

Sometimes I think he's too smart for his own good, but he knew somethin was wrong, and he did somethin about it. He came to you, and you did somethin about that. We all got our roles to play, but that shit don't matter. He's here, he's safe, and we all promised at one point to keep it that way.

Halo chuckles and Lucian smiles as he lays an affectionate hand on his left shoulder.

Lucian Slater:

I knew somethin was up, but I was tryin my best to stay out of it too.

Gael Slater:

Dad, he's here!

Gael stops before a room, where Jessie sits. His gaze follows the glass walls, and his face brightens the second he sees Gael. They wave at each other, but Jessie's smile widens when he sees Lucian and Halo approach the door.

Halo moves quickly towards it and enters. Striding over to Jessie to crouch before him.

Halo Noel:

How do you feel?

Jessie Lio:

I'm ok. They just told me that my mother died.

Halo's face falls and Jessie sighs sadly. Gael enters the room with Lucian in tow, but the man stays at a distance, as if on guard.

Gael Slater:

I'm sorry about your mom.

He sighs and sits beside Jessie, placing an arm over his shoulder.

Jessie Lio:

But, why am I not sadder?

Gael Slater:

Your mother stopped existing a long time ago. The second she willingly gave up on taking care of you and Ryu. Maybe that makes it easier, but if you want to cry, we won't judge you.

Halo stares in surprise at Gael, and Lucian moves closer as he hears the words— words beyond even his comprehension until then.

Lucian Slater:

That's... right, buddy.

Halo Noel:

We also understand that you may have your own way of grieving.

Jessie Lio:

I don't want to talk about this any more.

He yawns tiredly.

Jessie Lio:

I just want to sleep now.

Lucian lays a hand on Halo's shoulder, and though he is reluctant, he nods at Jessie. Brandishing a smile he hopes would reassure the boy, and soften the blow of nightmares certain to claim any peace in slumber.

Halo Noel:

I will make good on my promise, Jessie. This I vow.

They leave Jessie a few moments later, convening in the waiting area with Carlisle Barios.

Carlisle Barios:

Why don't you come by the office tomorrow?

Halo glances at the man in surprise. He looks to where Lucian sits with Gael. Sullen and clinging to his father with a troubled look on his face.

Halo Noel:

You will not try and discourage me?

Carlisle Barios:

I can tell that you somehow have a relentless spirit. I have to go and start this process, and appoint the Lio boys with a proper attorney.

Halo Noel:

Then I will see you tomorrow.

Carlisle Barios:

See you.

As he watches Carlisle leave, Lucian stands and walks over.

Lucian Slater:

What's goin on now?

Halo Noel:

For now, they have to be processed through the system. Hopefully, I can assure they do not get tossed and turned.

Lucian Slater:

If anybody can find em a fair shake, it's you, Angel.

Halo Noel:

Angel?

Lucian chuckles with a nod.

Lucian Slater:

Eh. I'm still workshoppin nicknames.

He shrugs lightheartedly.

MARCH 27, 2013 | 7:46am —

INT. OFFICE OF CHILD SUPPORT AND PROTECTION. CARLISLE'S OFFICE. DAY.

Halo Noel:

There there.

Halo coos lightly as he gently rocks a small, adorable bundle. Ryu Lio has the same dark, curious eyes as his brother Jessie, and luckily no bruises, or awareness of what transpires around him. He just suckles on his left thumb, peering up at Halo's face. Finding peace in it. He giggles when Halo nuzzles his forehead. Unable to help himself, he presses his chin against Ryu's warm face.

Halo Noel:

You will be ok, little chap. Nobody will ever hurt you or your brother again.

A door closes behind Halo, and he turns to see Carlisle Barios entering the office. This time, polished, and more refined in a fitting, dark-blue suit that brings out the brilliance of his eyes. Making them less dull than the first time Halo had met the man.

Carlisle Barios:

Oh, I see you took initiative. He's a handsome kid.

Halo Noel:

He truly is.

He tickles Ryu's tummy and the boy reacts with another giggle.

Halo Noel:

Yes, you are. You're going to steal all the girls when your brother starts dating, aren't you? Or the boys?

Carlisle's shoulders shake as he chuckles almost inaudibly. He then walks to his desk as Halo rocks the boy, then looks up at his curious glimmer. Halo frowns and blushes when Carlisle shoots him a toothy grin.

Carlisle Barios:

These boys are lucky they have someone like you looking out for them.

Halo Noel:

They were dealt a bad hand. I am just here to ensure that does not happen again. I know things here are not as solid as people would like to believe.

Carlisle Barios:

We do our best with what the government gives us. As a public institution, that is all we can do.

Halo Noel:

That was not a jab at your institution.

Carlisle Barios:

Then what was that?

Halo Noel:

A jab at your government employers.

Carlisle remains tense, but the moment passes and he chuckles.

Carlisle Barios:

I guess that's a fair point.

Halo turns to the baby. Diverting all his attention, without bars or hesitance and just as naturally as a seasoned childcare professional. Carlisle rounds his desk and sits with a tired sigh, but he watches them with something like adoration.

Carlisle Barios:

Are you thinking about fostering them?

Halo looks up, surprise in his eyes.

Halo Noel:

I... do not think I have what it takes to provide safety for these children. Besides, I move back to my home country soon.

Carlisle Barios:

Yes, Arlingfell.

Halo Noel:

How do you-.

Carlisle Barios:

I... had to thoroughly investigate the events that led to Jessie and Ryu's situation.

Halo nods, still wary, but understanding.

Carlisle Barios:

I also screened you for candidacy, since you were so... passionate about this.

Halo purses his lips, but he looks down at Ryu. The boy's eyes twinkle, and Halo's eyebrows furrow in contemplation. Before he can look back up at Carlisle, Ryu reaches up and his tiny fingers grab at Halo's bottom lip. Pulling it down and coaxing a throaty laugh from the man.

Carlisle's eyes pop open, but he chuckles heartily when Halo reacts in the sweetest way. He lets the boy tug playfully at his lip, but it pops out of his frail grip and Halo throws his head back when Ryu fusses.

Halo Noel:

Oh, you joyful little thing.

Carlisle Barios:

Careful, I hear babies imprint.

Halo Noel:

I think those are ducks or more primal animal species.

Carlisle Barios:

We are all living beings that crave closeness. Maybe, for the first time, this beautiful little bundle is experiencing love outside of Jessie.

Halo looks up at Carlisle who gestures to the baby in his arms.

Carlisle Barios:

When do you leave for Arlingfell?

Halo Noel:

In two weeks. I am hosting an overseas field trip for all three fourth grade classes for two weeks.

Carlisle Barios:

Might I suggest something?

Halo nods warily, and Carlisle leans forward.

Carlisle Barios:

I promise to move heaven and earth to find them proper placement, if you foster them for those four weeks.

Halo Noel:

I...— Are you allowed to do that?

Carlisle chuckles, but he gives no answer with the joyful, wordless response.

Carlisle Barios:

It's my job to make sure the children who end up in folders on my desk, get a fair shake. I admit, I don't know who you are, and your passion and apparent compassion for these two boys might be an act, but Jessie told me things that make you an obvious candidate. I can only suggest that you become a foster parent, and it doesn't have to be Jessie, or Ryu, or... both of them.

Halo Noel:

I suppose you make a compelling point. However, Jessie and Ryu need a... traditional household.

Carlisle Barios:

By that, you mean you're single, or unmarried, or both.

Halo purses his lips.

Halo Noel:

Or... gay.

Carlisle chuckles.

Halo Noel:

Also, all the other things you just said.

Carlisle Barios:

Mr Noel. Jessie and Ryu have no other family, but their uncle, Cho Jin. He is fifteen years old, and in his senior year at high school.

Halo Noel:

I know. The young man has told me as much. What can you tell me about his situation?

Carlisle bobs his head.

Carlisle Barios:

His sister didn't adopt him. Pretty much abandoned him in the system when she got married and had Jessie.

Halo Noel:

Which left him funnelling through the system. Why has nobody adopted him?

Carlisle Barios:

I couldn't say. Asians only cover a small percentage of the adoption rate here in the US. Tell you what.

Carlisle rises from his seat, and gestures to the door.

Carlisle Barios:

My first meeting is a couple with the foster home. Jessie is with them now, but, you got him to talk before, so he'll trust you to see if they're a good fit for him.

After placing Ryu back in the infant and toddler wing, Carlisle leads Halo to the rundown lobby. At the desk sits a frail, older woman with greying hair and a bespectacled gaze. She slowly types up a report, cursing under her breath as she hits backspace repeatedly.

Jessie sits before a smiling blonde woman, and a man Halo presumes to be her husband.

Halo Noel:

Does this mean you've found placement for him?

Carlisle Barios:

Not yet, but every time we get a new child, these two show up.

He whispers the last half as they make their approach.

Carlisle Barios:

Hey, Jessie. Look who's here to see you.

The boy turns, face morphing from sullenness to subtle excitement when he spots Halo.

Jessie Lio:

Mr Noel! What are you doing here?

Jessie hops from his seat, alarming the couple as he runs into Halo's arms.

Halo Noel:

Would you believe me if I said Gael sent me?

Jessie Lio (Laughing):

No, silly! We've been emailing each other since last night.

He shrugs and Halo chuckles.

Carlisle Barios:

He's just being humble, Jessie. Mr Noel is here because he wants to make sure you and your brother are ok. We know this is hard for you.

Jessie Lio:

I just don't want to get separated from my brother. Anything else is better than that house. It's like I can still hear mommy screaming at him.

He shakes his head and rolls his eyes.

Jessie Lio:

But I'm really glad you're here. Gael told me you would come.

Carlisle Barios:

Who's Gael?

Jessie Lio:

My best friend in the whole world!

Jessie lights up and Halo glances over at Carlisle, who ignores his pensive look. Halo then strolls forward and crouches before Jessie.

Halo Noel:

Jessie, it's ok to feel sad about your mother.

Jessie Lio:

I know. I love my mom, but being sad about it won't bring her back. Magic doesn't exist. We live in a world where people die every day, but we either have to live with them in our hearts or let them go. Whatever works.

Halo's eyes widen. Dumbfounded by the boy's wisdom, but unable to tell if he is bottling up his feelings again.

Carlisle Barios:

Don't grow up too fast, Jessie.

Jessie Lio:

That's literally impossible, but I understand. When is my mom's funeral?

Halo Noel:

Would you like to have a funeral?

Jessie nods.

Jessie Lio:

We may not have much family, but my dad had friends. My mom did too, but once the drugs started and that douche walked in, everything went to hell.

Jessie leans in, and Halo crouches.

Jessie Lio (Whispering):

I don't like that family very much. Can I come to your house?

Halo's gaze sweeps to Carlisle, who remains expressionless.

Halo Noel:

You have to give them a chance, Jessie.

Jessie Lio (In Cantonese):

Please. They don't look like they like me very much. At least help your friend get us a better choice.

Halo stands, hands resting against Jessie's shoulders as he leads the boy toward the couple. The woman stands first, but she slightly frowns in surprise when she comes face too face with Halo.

Halo Noel:

Mr and Mrs Pressman. Lovely to meet you both.

Ben Pressman:

Wait, you're giving up the chink?

The brunette man, with a startling stench of stale cigarettes steps up to Halo. Giving him a once-over and a disapproving stare.

Rebecca Pressman:

Thank god. He obviously can't take care of those poor darlings.

The woman laughs shrilly, and Halo stares at Carlisle incredulously.

Carlisle Barios:

What's it gonna be?

Halo opens his mouth to respond, but he looks over at Jessie. His forlorn expression a cry for help. One that Halo steels himself to offer, even in uncertainty.

Halo Noel:

Where do I sign up?

He turns to Carlisle, who smirks happily at him.

—

MARCH 28, 2013 | 12:46pm —

INT. BOSTON COURTHOUSE. CHILDREN'S COURTROOM. DAY.

HALO sits at the forefront of the courtroom, with three other adults besides Jessie and Ryu, who is perched on his lap. Jessie's head is held down, eyes red from the tears he'd cried earlier.

At the judge's seat, sits Victoria Strean. A gentle-faced, older woman with a lustrous crown of completely grey hair. Coiffed atop her head, like the crown to fit the divinity that is her dark skin.

Carlisle Barios:

Your Honor, due to the living circumstances of Jessie and Ryu Lio's uncle, Mr Cho Jin.

He points to Cho Jin, who sits beside Terrell James. A studious, African American man, donning a crisp Armani suit. Cho Jin wears a simple getup of jeans, t-shirt and worn black converse sneakers. Shifting uncomfortably in his seat, clearly affected by being in the familiar place.

Carlisle Barios:

It is my recommendation that they are placed in foster care, but not separated.

Judge Victoria Strean:

Have you found proper placement for them?

Carlisle looks over at Halo, who stands.

Carlisle Barios:

If it is your will, Your Honor, I would like to bring a possible foster parent for both Lio children to your attention.

Judge Victoria Strean:

Have you found placement for them or not? Let us speed this along, Mr Barios. There are more children awaiting my decision that could quite possibly alter their life, now give me possibles, or turn tail until another date can be set.

Halo stands then, eyes blazing with passion and paternal fury.

Halo Noel:

If I may, Your Honor.

Judge Strean glances at Halo, taking in his primped attire of olive Chambre suit jacket over a simple, splice white shirt with an elegant v-neck, and matching pants and trainers. He gestures to the spot beside Carlisle who stands before her. She nods, and Halo steps up to the bench.

Halo Noel:

My name is Halo Noelan Abdel. I recently submitted my application to become a foster parent, but due to the circumstances, I made a few calls and had the approval expedited. Mr Barios has proof of this.

Judge Victoria Strean:

You are willing to foster these children?

Halo Noel:

Your Honour, I had my application expedited because I... have connections, and I know it may seem unfair to the many children that have to be processed in the system, but I felt it pertinent to intervene.

Judge Victoria Strean:

What is your relationship with the children?

Halo Noel:

I have no prior relationship with these children, other than meeting them in the past few days.

The woman purses her lips and leans back.

Judge Victoria Strean:

Who are you, Mr Abdel?

Halo Noel:

I go by Halo Noel, for reasons of national security.

Judge Victoria Strean:

National Security?

Halo Noel:

I am Prince Halo Noelan Abdel. Director of the Arlan Guard, soon to be Duke of Arlingfell.

The woman sits up, eyes settled on Halo with interest and shock.

Judge Victoria Strean:

Oh that-, I mean, that doesn't exactly make you a perfect candidate, Your-Your Highness?

She clears her throat and Halo smiles.

Halo Noel:

Your Grace, but right now I am just Halo, or Mr Noel or Abdel if you prefer. And I am aware that my position grants me no favours, but I have complete documentation to support my claims, as well as a minor in paediatrics and childcare development.

Judge Victoria Strean:

Mr Noel, what is your reason for wanting to foster these children? You expect me to believe a man of your... persuasion has garnered pity for these two boys enough to want to foster them?

Halo Noel:

You most certainly can, Your Honour. I have also done my research. A few hundred cases go through this very courtroom each year, and a calculated ten percent of Asian children are admitted into the system. This district accounts for a one percent adoption rate, while some others collectively sit at a one percent possibility.

Judge Strean straightens her composure, eye twitching uncomfortably.

Halo Noel:

Taking into account Jessie and Ryu's situation, I would like to prevent that.

Judge Victoria Strean:

Did you research all this?

Halo nods and she looks down at the files before her, picking one specific sheet.

Judge Victoria Strean:

What about the children? Their family?

Halo Noel:

Their mother, Chai Jin-Lio, thirty-four, married right out of college. Husband, Arman Lio, born Arman Lio Claret, died after they found out they were having Ryu.

Terrell James:

I have gotten in contact with the Claret family, but the only ones who remain are Paula Claret, who is currently suffering from a fatal ailment and has a live-in caretaker. Vera Claret has not contacted, or returned the many calls, and has expressed no interest. Other family members are... deceased.

Halo turns to glance at the children, but Jessie keeps his head down. Tending to his brother with a toy he spins around idly for Ryu.

Halo Noel:

As a result, their mother became... heavily depressed. This caused a series of events, which led to the abuse and unfortunately... her demise.

Halo stops to take a breath, eyes glinting with emotion.

— Recollecting the bruises on the Jessie, the terror in his face. It all crashes back into Halo with the pressure of a tundra.

Halo Noel:

Until they are adopted, they can remain in my care. I have the resources, and the willingness to accept the responsibility.

Cho Jin:

And I'll-, I uh, will help, Your Honour.

Judge Strean looks over at Cho.

Judge Victoria Strean:

And you support this?

Cho Jin:

His research isn't wrong, Your Honour. I've seen the numbers.

Cho looks down, but shakes his head and lifts it to level a tight smile.

Cho Jin:

I wish I could take them, but as you know, I'm just a minor with foster parents because my sister didn't see it fit to care for me.

Judge Victoria Strean:

I will allow Mr Abdel custody, on the condition that he manages his schedule to assume care of your nephews, a household inspection, at least four hours of parenting classes-.

Halo Noel:

I have exceeded that criteria for parenting classes, I have already begun making safety adjustments, buying the correct materials and reforming my household to ensure their safety.

As if on cue, the courtroom door opens and Calum strides in, a black file jacket in hand. Judge Strean goes to speak, but Halo stops her.

Halo Noel:

This is Calum Beauchamp, head of my security team. What he brings with him is a folder of background checks for all of my employees. Expected and assumed to make contact with the children. All legally acquired, and expedited for a speedy process.

Calum approaches, bows slightly and hands Halo the file jacket. He steps back and strides to the back of the courtroom, sitting behind Jessie and Ryu.

Halo Noel:

My financials are also inside, as well as my credentials, only to be viewed by you. After which, they will no longer exist.

Judge Strean lifts her gaze, and Halo nods as he places the file jacket down before her. He looks over at Jessie, who frowns but looks back down at his brother.

Cho Jin:

So, I can see them in foster care?

Halo Noel:

If I may make another request, Your Honor.

The woman nods, clearly poised to respect his presence and word as a civilian first.

Halo Noel:

I... would like to also have Cho Jin placed under my care.

Cho's gaze flies to Halo, and the man sees emotion swirling in the young man's eyes.

Judge Victoria Strean:

That is a lot of responsibility for one man, notwithstanding your capabilities and obvious resources at hand.

Halo Noel:

I am aware, but with Cho's help and his presence as you so wisely put earlier, perhaps it would appease both Jessie and Ryu.

The woman eyes Halo, sighs, then shakes her head.

Judge Victoria Strean:

Maybe it's best that Cho remains in his current foster home. You may be eager, but I have seen many eager foster parents walk in here with expectations, only to discard the children after. For now, Cho faces no challenge in the current home.

Halo purses his lips, inclined to argue, but he nods. Cho shakes his head and leans back in his chair with a huff.

Judge Victoria Strean:

Mr Jin can visit you and the children, as much as you will allow. You also will have the financial freedom to care for them in the capacity you deem fit, but this is purely probationary. We will revisit this in five weeks. Only then will I decide. I however would like to hear what the older child wants.

Halo moves towards Jessie, resting a hand atop his shoulder. The boy looks up, and Judge Strean eyes him. Observing the way Halo gently speaks to him and crouches to take his hand.

Halo Noel (Quietly):

Come, laddy. The judge wants to ask you a question.

Jessie looks up at the woman, and turns back to Halo to nod at him.

Judge Victoria Strean:

What do you make of this, sweetheart?

Jessie hesitates, but he looks up at Halo. The man doesn't react. He simply steps closer to the man, who stands.

Jessie Lio:

I... want to go with Mr Noel. He's nice and-and he is nice to every one of us at school!

Judge Victoria Strean:

You're familiar with Mr... Noel?

Jessie nods.

Jessie Lio:

I was going to get in trouble because my best friend Gael stopped some bullies from beating me up.

Jessie brightens considerable and Judge Strean's lips almost crack into a smile.

Jessie Lio:

But Mr Noel made all the children write about what they saw.

He grins, but he saddens at the memory of losing his mother.

Judge Victoria Strean:

Do you want to stay with Mr Noel until we can place you in a forever home?

Jessie nods, and Judge Strean bangs her gavel.

Judge Victoria Strean:

I don't usually base these things on chemistry. Within forty-eight hours, you've taken great strides to protect these children from a system I do not wish to bestow upon them. I will grant you custody, Mr Noel. Treat them well.

Halo Noel:

It is a duty I will be honoured to accept and carry out to the letter, Your Honour. Thank you for listening.

Judge Strean nods at Halo.

Judge Victoria Strean:

Perhaps we can revisit your interest in fostering Mr Jin in three weeks.

Judge Strean nods, and Halo smiles as Jessie leans into him. Ryu fusses when the chairs begin moving, and Halo strides over. Picking him up and rocking him against his chest. Carlisle stands by to gather his documents, convening with Judge Strean about the next case.

Halo Noel:

Everything will be alright, little prince. You're going to be safe now.

Cho Jin walks over, eyes narrowed at the scene, but the ghost of a smile etches across his face.

Cho Jin:

He likes you a lot.

Halo turns to face Cho Jin, nodding wryly at him.

Halo Noel:

For what it is worth, I was quite serious about you coming to stay with us until better arrangements can be made. I know you are having a hard time in foster care.

Cho Jin:

Really? You don't think I'm a doomed?

Halo Noel:

Far from it. However, I still would like you to visit Arlan House. Come anytime you please.

Halo smiles at Cho Jin.

Halo Noel:

I insist.

Cho Jin:

Can I bring my trunk load of textbooks? Finals are coming up.

Halo Noel:

Your presence in the house alone is just as welcome. I also may have something to help with your studies.

Cho Jin:

Then I will be there.

He smiles then crouches to meet Jessie's gaze.

Cho Jin:

I'm so sorry about this, buddy. If there was any other way, I'd definitely do it.

Jessie Lio:

Can you come for dinner every evening now?

Cho looks up at Halo, who nods encouragingly.

Cho Jin:

Sure thing, buddy.

—-