Chapter 12 - JusticeThe sentence came quickly.
Multiple life terms.
No possibility of parole.
Secure psychiatric confinement.
Martha showed no emotion.
She simply turned toward the exit.
For years, she had believed herself the architect of everyone else's future.
Now she had no future to control.
Outside the courthouse, Sarah stood beneath the bright afternoon sun.
"It's really over."
Mark held her.
"For this part."
Sarah breathed deeply.
For the first time, she felt free.
Not healed.
Not completely.
But free.
Detective Vance handed Mark the final evidence box.
"You don't need to carry this anymore."
Mark looked at the box.
Then he handed it back.
"Keep it."
Vance nodded.
"Fair enough."
Sarah took Mark's hand.
They walked toward their car.
May you like
Behind them, the courthouse doors closed.
Ahead of them waited home.
Related Stories
Chapter 13 - RebuildingThey changed the house.
Chapter 14 - The First ChristmasDecember arrived.
Chapter 15 - The Longest NightWinter settled over the neighborhood.
Chapter 16 - The Empty ChairMonths passed.
Chapter 17 - The LetterOne spring morning, an envelope arrived.
Chapter 18 - The Last SecretThe investigation revealed nothing immediately.
