Chapter 7 - The Trial Approaches
Three months passed, and the media storm finally died down, replaced by a tense anticipation.
Isabella's criminal trial was only days away, and the prosecution needed a key witness to guarantee a conviction.
The District Attorney sat in the Montgomery living room, looking sympathetically at little Leo.
"I know it is scary, buddy, but we need you to tell the judge what she did to you," the lawyer explained gently.
Leo hid behind Sarah's legs, his tiny hands gripping her skirt in sheer terror.
The thought of seeing Isabella again, the monster who locked him in the dark, paralyzed the young boy.
"He can't do it," Arthur said angrily, pacing the floor. "I won't let you put him through that trauma again."
"If he doesn't testify, her lawyers will claim it was an accident and she might walk free," the DA warned grimly.
Sarah knelt down, wrapping her arms around the trembling boy and resting her forehead against his.
"Leo, look at me," Sarah whispered, waiting until his fearful dark eyes met hers.
"Do you remember when you were in the dark, and you thought no one would ever hear you?"
Leo nodded slowly, a single tear escaping and rolling down his chubby cheek.
"I heard you," Sarah said firmly. "And now, we are going to make sure the whole world hears you."
"She can't hurt you anymore because I will be holding your hand the entire time."
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Leo took a deep, shaky breath, looking at his father and then back at his beloved guardian.
"Okay," the brave little boy whispered. "I will tell them."
