Chapter 3: The Trial
Chapter 3: The Trial
Six months later, the courtroom was filled with reporters, investigators, and neighbors who couldn't believe such abuse had happened behind an ordinary suburban home.
The prosecution presented overwhelming evidence.
Medical experts testified that Drew's broken leg had gone untreated for weeks.
Nutrition specialists described Lily's severe malnourishment.
Police officers showed photographs of the basement and hidden punishment room.
Then came the surveillance footage.
The courtroom watched Drew carefully wrap Lily in one of the thin blankets before pretending to read stories from a book with missing pages.
Several jurors wiped away tears.
The defense argued that Reena had been overwhelmed after Aaron's death.
The prosecutor responded calmly.
"Being overwhelmed does not install deadbolts."
"It does not ignore broken bones."
"And it does not starve children."
When the jury returned its verdict, the courtroom stood completely still.
"Guilty."
On every count.
Reena showed little emotion as deputies escorted her away.
Peter never looked at her.
May you like
His eyes remained on Drew and Lily, who were sitting quietly beside him.
This time, they weren't alone.
