Gangsta's Paradise

For My Daughter

Nipsey

It's finally time for the court hearing. My attorney thinks we've got a good chance at me getting Emani but I'm still nervous. Lauren, my parents and Samantha are with me for support. My attorney told me that with Emani taking the stand and saying she'd like to stay with me, it would only work on my favor.
Emani was holding Lauren's hand as they walked and talked. Half the shit they talk about I have no idea about, but their bond is bomb as hell to me. Their energy has really helped me put my best foot forward with my new album.
As I sat and listened to my attorney, Tanisha walked in being loud and obnoxious. To be real, I got a tip that things are already in my favor. Even though I'm a known gang member, I've changed my life around a lot. I own businesses as well as several mentoring programs in the hood. I also have a good income and compared to Tanisha, my record is clean aside from a few minor arrests as a teen.
There's also the fact that Tanisha doesn't have custody of Emani's younger brother. She'd had him about a year after we broke up. His father petitioned the court shortly after his birth, saying Tanisha did drugs with while she was pregnant and also while he was in the home.

"All rise, the Honorable Judge Williams presiding..."
"You may now be seated. We're here today in the case of Ermias Asghedom vs Tanisha Foster over the custody of Emani Asghedom. The plaintiff may state your case."
"Yes your honor. My name is Ermias Asghedom and I am Emani Asghedom's biological father. Recently, there's been several instances that I believe resulted in neglect on Ms. Foster's behalf. I believe that my daughter would be better served in my custody so that I can provide adequate care for her."
"Mr. Asghedom, do you currently have any other children in your household?"
"No sir your honor."
"The Defendant May state her case."
"Yes sir. My daughter is currently in my care and I think I've done a damn good job with her. I honestly believe this comes from the plaintiff not wanting to pay child support."
"Your honor, I am currently not on any child support. I provide for my daughter on a daily basis."
"Ms. Foster, I see here that your youngest son is no longer in your custody. Care to elaborate on that?"
"No sir! I don't want to elaborate and I feel that it is irrelevant to this case."
"With all do respect ma'am, if one child is removed from the household, it definitely affects the other children in the home. So please, explain the situation."
"My son's father didn't like the way that I was raising him so he took him."
"Have you ever been charged with abuse?"
"Yes sir, your honor. But those charges were dropped."

I couldn't help but shake my head. I pray that this all turns out the way it's supposed to and I get my daughter. I never want her to go through unnecessary bullshit . Half the shit I do, I do it for her.
The judge then called Mani up to the podium and he asked her a few questions. He did so lowly so no one can hear it. He then called Tanisha and I into his chamber.

"I spoke with your daughter as well as reviewed each individual. There are some concerns. Mr. Asghedom, are you still active in any gang affiliations?"
"No sir. I am no longer active and I don't associate with the gang."
"What about you Ms. Foster?"
"No your honor. I am not active."
"Due to your previous history, we will need to give you a drug test Ms. Foster."
"Is that really necessary?"
"Yes ma'am. It's part of a new initiative to make sure we aren't placing children in harms way."

I'm actually surprised by that. I looked at Tanisha and could see the look of panic spread across her face. After an hour break, he called Tanisha inside his chamber. I'm still a little nervous. Then I seen here walk out rolling her eyes.
We went back into the courtroom, and the judge finally was ready to give his verdict. I said a little prayer and waited.

"In the case of Asghedom vs Foster, I have decided to grant Ermias Asghedom permanent custody of Emani Asghedom. Court is now adjourned."

I closed my eyes and said another prayer, this time thanking God. I felt my pop rub my shoulder and I grabbed his hand and held it. Lauren then walked up and kissed me as Emani ran over and wrapped her arms around my waist. There's nothing in this world greater than this moment. I finally got my babygirl!
We left the courthouse and I asked everybody if they wanted to go out and get something to eat. We left and went to get Cam. We then went to Carrabas, one of Emani's favorite places. We ate, laughed and talked. This is what I want out of life and I know without a doubt that Lauren is the one I want it with. As the night ended, Lo and the kids went to Bed, Bath & Beyond and I let Emani pick out her some new bedding and sheets. My babygirl is finally at home.