Chapter 10 - The Trial
Anthony’s trial lasted eleven weeks.
Elena testified.
So did Mara.
Isabella appeared under guard.
Roman testified last.
The defense tried painting him as a violent criminal manipulating evidence.
Some accusations about his past were true.
Roman did not lie.
“Yes.”
“You have used intimidation?”
“Yes.”
“You have participated in illegal enterprise?”
“Yes.”
The courtroom murmured.
His attorney closed his eyes.
The prosecutor asked:
“Why admit that?”
Roman looked toward Sophia’s empty seat—children were not allowed during testimony.
“Because my daughter nearly died in a house full of adults protecting lies.”
Silence.
“I’m done contributing another one.”
Anthony was convicted.
The experimental medical network collapsed.
Victims came forward.
Several hospitals faced investigation.
St. Matthew’s issued Mara a public apology.
She framed it.
Upside down.
Roman approved.
Anthony received a sentence that ensured he would spend the rest of his life in prison.
Roman visited once.
Anthony asked:
“Do you forgive me?”
“No.”
“Then why come?”
“To tell you Sophia survived.”
Anthony looked away.
“And she’s happy.”
Roman stood.
May you like
“That’s the part you don’t get to own.”
He never visited again.
