29.Looming Storm

Howard stands outside the courtroom after a brutal cross-examination in the custody dispute over Bridget. He discusses concerns with his lawyer Ms. Benning and Dr. Onagi about the trial strategy and the possibility that the opposing side may not accept a loss gracefully.

Howard exits the courtroom after enduring aggressive questioning from the children's lawyer, Mr. Kistler, who attacked his character with inflammatory comparisons and implied he brainwashed Bridget. Howard had activated his endocrine control system during cross-examination to manage his emotional response to the accusations. Ms. Benning warns him that more hostility awaits after recess and advises him not to react emotionally. Dr. Onagi expresses distrust beyond normal courtroom adversarialism, particularly regarding the eldest daughter, suggesting she may not accept losing the case gracefully and could attempt sabotage. Ms. Benning raises the concern that even if they win, the family's potential retaliation could cause problems. The three fall into uncomfortable silence as they contemplate this troubling possibility.