Chapter 13 - THE TRIAL
The trial lasted weeks.
The recordings were devastating.
David's mother eventually confessed.
Vanessa testified.
Daniel explained the financial trail.
The neighbor testified about the garage.
Then I took the stand.
The courtroom was silent.
The prosecutor asked:
“What do you remember about the night you were rescued?”
I looked toward David.
“I remember thinking I was going to die.”
My voice shook.
“But I remember something else.”
“What?”
“I remember my baby moving.”
The courtroom went silent.
“I thought if I couldn't save myself, maybe I could save my child.”
David looked down.
I continued.
“I spent months believing I was powerless.”
I looked at the jury.
“I was wrong.”
The prosecutor asked me about the abuse.
I told the truth.
Every threat.
Every lie.
Every financial manipulation.
Every night in the garage.
I didn't exaggerate.
I didn't need to.
The evidence spoke for itself.
When I finished, Detective Morris walked toward me.
She whispered:
“They found Richard's final account.”
“Where?”
“Overseas.”
Then she smiled.
May you like
“But he's still in custody.”
I finally allowed myself to breathe.
