In the midst of it all sat Garrett, my defense attorney, quietly fiddling with the bead chain on his wrist, his silence almost deafening.
The case was glaringly obvious: I had long tormented my adopted sister, Eliana, exploiting my status as the legitimate child of the Laurier family.
The judge’s expression darkened as he asked if I pleaded guilty.
I offered no denial or protest; I simply acknowledged my guilt.
The judge handed down a sentence of three years in prison, accompanied by a year of probation.
The courtroom erupted in cheers, and I caught a glimpse of my parents, their faces reflecting palpable relief.
Eliana’s eyes brimmed with tears while Wade held her close, his expression etched with pain as he offered quiet comfort.
Just as the judge was about to close the session, Garrett suddenly rose to his feet, proposing an appeal.
The room fell silent in shock, yet the proposal was both reasonable and lawful, leaving the court no choice but to accept it.
Though I had narrowly escaped disaster, a heaviness lingered in my heart, leaving no room for joy.
Garrett was Eliana’s boyfriend, and it was evident he had ulterior motives for his actions.