The judge entered. “We’ll hear from the minor witness now.”
Noah walked to the stand, small and scared. Eleanor stared at him. Daniel looked like he might be sick.
“Noah,” Sophie said gently. “Do you know why we’re here?”
“Yes. Lucia’s in trouble because Grandma said she stole something.”
“Did Lucia steal anything?”
“No.”
“How do you know?”
“Because I saw what really happened.” Noah’s voice was quiet but steady. “I woke up really late one night. I wanted water. I saw Grandma in the jewelry room.”
Eleanor stood. “This is absurd! He’s a child with an overactive imagination—”
The judge held up a hand. “Mrs. Aldridge, sit down.”
“She was holding something shiny,” Noah continued. “And she said, ‘Lucia will be an easy target.’ Then she saw me and told me I was dreaming.”
The courtroom erupted in whispers.
“But I wasn’t dreaming,” Noah said louder. “I remember because I was scared. Grandma never goes in that room at night.”
Hale jumped up. “Your Honor, this is clearly a coached testimony—”
“Did anyone tell you what to say today?” Sophie asked.
“No.”
“Are you lying to protect Lucia?”
“No. I’m telling the truth to protect Lucia.”