He had feared such a reaction. The part of his job that he found most dangerous was dealing with the guardians. "Well, Ms Hayes, if we can sit down, I'll explain." He found a chair, hopefully one that didn't have any significance. Opening his briefcase, he placed the documents on the table. 

"These documents, Ms Hayes, are routine paperwork needed to finative your adoption of Megan Robinson," Gordon Smith explained. "I understand that the girl's parents made the necessary arrangements to have you legally declared godparent, but the City requires further information to declare you the child's next of kin." He was well aware his smile was not at all comforting, so he instead added, "It is all routine, Ms Hayes, largely a formality."

He had caught a surreptitious movement of her hand, and believed he knew what it was. "Please, Ms Hayes, feel free to put your contact on speakerphone. I encourage you to speak to someone you trust. I am simply here to deliver the forms and make sure you understand their contents." He hoped he hadn't overstepped. 

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