Chapter 8 - The Verdict
The jury deliberated for less than four hours.
When they returned, the tension in the room was suffocating.
The foreperson stood up, holding the verdict sheet.
"On the charge of conspiracy to commit medical fraud, we find the defendant, Eleanor Carter... guilty."
My mother let out a strangled wail, collapsing into her chair.
"On the charge of attempted kidnapping, we find the defendants, Eleanor Carter and Tyler Hayes... guilty."
Tyler buried his face in his hands, his shoulders shaking uncontrollably.
The judge proceeded to sentencing immediately, having no patience for their crimes.
My mother was sentenced to ten years in federal prison for the medical fraud and kidnapping attempt.
Tyler received five years, with no possibility of early parole.
The judge also finalized my divorce on the spot, granting me sole legal and physical custody of Rose.
Tyler’s parental rights were permanently terminated.
As the bailiffs led them away in handcuffs, my mother turned to look at me one last time.
"I am your mother!" she screamed desperately.
I looked at her, feeling a profound sense of closure.
May you like
"Not anymore," I whispered, turning my back on her.
I walked out of the courtroom into the bright sunlight, where my father was waiting for me.
