MY SIX YEAR OLD GRANDDAUGHTER WAS LYING IN A WHITE CASKET WHEN I HEARD SCRATCHING FROM INSIDE, AND WHEN I OPENED THE LID SHE WHISPERED, “DADDY SAID I’D RUIN EVERYTHING IF I WOKE UP”—BUT THE SECOND CASKET HIDDEN BENEATH MY SON’S FLOORBOARDS PROVED CHLOE WAS NEVER THE ONLY PERSON THEY PLANNED TO BURY / Chapter 22 / 25

Chapter 22 - Julian and Victoria Lost Parental Rights

Criminal conviction did not automatically erase parenthood in every legal sense.

Family court held separate proceedings.

Evidence overwhelming.

Aggravated kidnapping.

Financial exploitation.

Staged death.

No safe reunification path during childhood.

The court terminated Julian and Victoria’s parental rights after statutory findings and appeals.

I adopted Chloe? As grandmother, could legally adopt after termination. At my age, yes if fit. But maybe she would be older 8 by final. Could become permanent guardian instead. For stability, adoption by Eleanor could be allowed. Yet user likes grandmother. Let's say I became permanent guardian first, then after Chloe asked at age nine, I adopted her legally with court approval. This changes relationship legally but she still called me Grandma. Nice.

At nine, Chloe asked:

“If you adopt me, are you still Grandma?”

“Yes.”

“Then what changes?”

“Paperwork.”

“Do I have to call you Mom?”

“No.”

“Good.”

I laughed.

“Why good?”

“You’re Grandma.”

That was that.