Very nervewracking, appearing in court. I have done it numerous times through my career, but this was very different. H was visibly stressed and nervous.
H was on time and polite. Kind. Held doors, saved me seats, understood when I was very upset they wouldn't allow my huge Diet Coke in the courtroom with me.
Made it through the appearance with a high head. Until the judge mentioned 'minor children' and listed them, dates of births and so forth. I choked up. As did H. I feel they should be listed under 'victims' in this mess.
It is final. The judge wished us luck, commended us on our approach (mediation, fair settlement, no battles).We walked to our cars (H's motorcycle, he parked close to me). H made small talk on the way and asked "Oh you aren't talking to me now?" when I was merely nodding. H changed for work in the back of my SUV and asked "Did you want me to stay away tonight? Not see the girls? I can, its ok." I started crying and said it would be better if he didn't come by. He started crying and reached out to hug me. First personal contact in months. We cried quietly for a moment, on a busy street, with life going on all around us. H let go first and wiped a tear off my face.
That is that.
Off to work now. Wasn't scheduled but duty calls. Probably good for me.
Thank you everyone for your support.
PS: I know I should be typing X in front of H, but I am not ready yet.
