Together, they changed everything.
When Judge Carter finally looked toward Daniel, she asked a simple question.
“Mr. Whitmore, what relief are you requesting today?”
Daniel stood.
He looked toward me first.
Then toward the judge.
“None, Your Honor.”
A quiet murmur moved through the courtroom.
His attorney whispered something, but Daniel continued.
“I withdraw the guardianship petition.”
Judge Carter studied him.
“Completely?”
“Yes.”
“What about your amended request for supported decision-making?”
“That should be Mr. Whitmore’s request, not mine.”
For several seconds, I could not speak.
The brother I had believed wanted control was surrendering the last piece of control he still possessed.
Judge Carter looked toward Rachel.
“Mr. Whitmore?”
Rachel turned to me.
This time, no one answered for me.
I moved closer to the microphone.
“I would like to request a voluntary supported decision-making agreement.”
Judge Carter nodded.
“With whom?”
I had thought about that question all night.
