Chapter 7 - THE VERDICT AND THE BREAKING POINT
The jury deliberated for less than ninety minutes.
When they walked back into the courtroom, the silence was heavy enough to crush a stone.
"Has the jury reached a verdict?" the judge asked.
"We have, Your Honor," the foreperson stood up.
My mother stood beside her lawyer, her chin held high, still convinced her status and social standing would protect her from consequences.
"On Count 1, Felony Assault in the Second Degree... we find the defendant, Evelyn Miller, GUILTY."
My mother’s knees buckled. Her lawyer had to catch her by the elbow.
"On Count 2, Child Endangerment of a Minor... we find the defendant, Evelyn Miller, GUILTY."
Charlotte let out a loud sob from the back of the court. My father slumped into his seat, burying his head in his hands.
"The defendant will be remanded into custody immediately pending sentencing," the judge declared, slamming his gavel down. "Bail is revoked."
Two bailiffs immediately stepped forward, grabbing my mother’s arms. For the first time, the icy composure faded. She turned to me, her eyes wild with panic, tears finally ruining her makeup.
"Becca! Tell them! Tell them you forgive me! Tell the judge!" she screamed as she was pulled toward the side exit door. "Becca! I’m your mother! You can't let them take me! BECCA!"
I stood up from my seat, adjusted my coat, and looked her right in the eyes.
"I don't have a mother," I said quietly, loud enough only for her to hear as she was hauled through the iron door.
Outside the courthouse, reporters swarmed us. Microphones were thrust into our faces.
"Rebecca! How do you feel about the guilty verdict?" "Will you ever reconcile with your family?"
Marcus held my shoulder firmly, keeping the press back. I leaned toward the nearest microphone.
May you like
"To anyone out there suffering from toxic family members who use blood to justify abuse: stop letting them bleed you dry. Family isn't who birthed you. Family is who protects you when you are broken."
We walked down the marble steps, leaving the cameras, the noise, and the ghosts of my past behind us.
