Chapter 490

Upon seeing Felix’s youthful innocence, the judge’s demeanor softened, shedding its previous sternness. “Felix, your parents are going to live separately. As their child, you must choose one of them as your guardian. Do you understand?”

“Yes, Your Honor! I want to live with Mommy!”

Before the judge could pose his intended question, Felix preemptively declared his choice.

Felix’s decision caused Bradley to rise abruptly in the courtroom, disregarding his surroundings. His anger was evident, and his words were threatening. “Felix, I’ll give you until three to reconsider. Think carefully! Who do you want to live with?”

Jonathan closed his eyes in despair, realizing their carefully constructed plans were crashing down.

With Bradley’s authoritative tone directed at Felix, it was becoming unlikely that the judge and jurors would grant him custody.

“Mr. Warner, please try to stay calm,” Jonathan urged Bradley, regaining his composure.

Brushing off Jonathan’s hand, Bradley replied almost arrogantly, “Felix is my son. Esther must have influenced him to say these things.”

“Daddy!” Felix interjected upon hearing Bradley’s accusation. “Mommy didn’t say anything. Before Mommy left today, she told me that if the judge asked, I should choose who I want to live with. I chose Mommy all by myself!”

Bradley’s gaze darkened as he looked at Esther. He had always known Esther could be malicious but hadn’t anticipated she would ruthlessly manipulate a child as young as Felix.

“Esther, have you no compassion left? Using a child as young as Felix?” Bradley’s words dripped with anger, his sinister gaze sending chills down the spines of those present.

“Daddy, Mommy didn’t use me!

“Daddy, you’re a strong man who can defend himself.

“Mommy needs a little guy like me to keep her safe.

“Daddy, even if I decide to live with Mommy, I’m still your son.

“Your Honor, please let me stay with Mommy. She’s been hurt by mean people, and it’s really sad. I want to grow up fast and take care of her!

“Your Honor, I’m finished speaking!”

The judge nodded and softly said, “Thank you for cooperating, Felix.”

“No need to thank me! Goodbye, everyone.”

Felix waved at the camera with an adorable charm. His cuteness warmed the judge’s typically reserved demeanor, making him seem more humane.

The courtroom buzzed with restlessness as soon as Felix ended the video call. In contrast to Esther’s composed confidence, Bradley and his legal team seemed visibly pressured.

The judge asked, “Is there any more evidence from both sides?”

Jonathan reluctantly rose for a final attempt.

“Your Honor and jurors, I present an evaluation report by a psychologist on Ms. Quill’s mental state. My client believes Felix should grow up in a nurturing environment, and Ms. Quill’s mental health isn’t suitable for his upbringing. I earnestly ask that Your Honor make the right. decision for custody.”