Inside the courtroom, the state’s attorney explained why Carter’s application concerned officials. He had no spouse, no co-guardian, and no previous experience raising children. Three foster homes were already prepared in separate counties. The attorney argued that separating the siblings might provide a more manageable placement arrangement.
Carter listened without interrupting. He understood the concerns, but he remembered watching the children comfort one another. Eli constantly protected little Lila, while the twins held hands whenever strangers approached. Carter believed separating them would create another painful loss. When the judge asked why he wanted these particular children, Carter struggled to answer.
