Chapter 16 - THE TRIALMargaret's trial lasted months.
She was charged with fraud, forgery, and financial manipulation.
The prosecution argued that she had used control to dominate everyone around her.
The defense argued that she had been a grieving wife.
Both were true.
Michael testified.
He told the truth.
Even when it hurt.
Emily testified too.
She described the fourteen months without the letters.
She described the loneliness.
The confusion.
The marriage that almost ended.
Margaret sat quietly.
For the first time, she could not interrupt.
She could not change the story.
She could not tell anyone what to believe.
The judge sentenced her to prison.
Not for murder.
The evidence did not prove that.
But for the crimes she had committed.
As she was led away, Michael looked at her.
Margaret turned.
Their eyes met.
Neither spoke.
Then she mouthed:
“I'm sorry.”
Michael nodded.
But he did not say:
“I forgive you.”
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He was not ready.
And forgiveness could not be demanded.
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