The Things That I Know || George Michael

twenty-nine - couldn't deny it

"Members of the jury, do you find the defendant guilty or not guilty of attempted murder?"

All eyes in the courtroom flit from the judge to the lead jury member, who has been selected to speak on the behalves of the rest of the members. Levi's eyes fix on the small group; his brows furrow in anticipation of the answer.

"We find the defendant ... guilty, Your Honour."

George pumps his fist in relief at the news, whispering a tiny, "Yes!"

The judge nods in acknowledgement, before continuing. "And do you find the defendant guilty or not guilty of high culpability threat with a weapon?"

"We find the defendant ... guilty, Your Honour."

Levi wants nothing more than to jump up in jubilation at this result, but he knows he hasn't quite won the battle yet. He turns his head to find George in the public gallery; when he does so, they both flash subtle smiles to each other. Levi decides, at last, to take a glance at Mackenzie — who hasn't reacted to any of the words from the jury at all. Part of him feels bad for Mackenzie — not for what he did to him; but rather, that life became so lonely and desperate for him, that his logic dictated he must turn to crime in order to gain attention from someone.

"Thank you. Please be seated," the judge demands, before addressing the entire room. "There will be a sentencing hearing held at a later date, to be confirmed. This hearing is adjourned."

As the spectators and witnesses begin to exit the vicinity, George can't help but observe Mackenzie as he is taken back down to where he is being held. Mackenzie locks eyes on George only momentarily; but he gives a remorseful look just long enough for George to catch it.

Once George has arrived outside the court, he presses his back to the wall to wait for his husband. He pulls out his phone from his pocket, unlocking it to find he has unread messages from various family members and friends. The majority are well wishes for the trial; and one is from Penny, who has kindly taken on the school run for the men since they've been in London.

Hope today pans out in your favour. Kids are doing fine with Daniel and I. Let me know asap what happens. Love you both so much! xx

Hey Gogos, hope Levi does ok today, keep us informed, love Mel x

Hope the bastard gets what he deserves today, such a piece of work!! Keep us updated, Steph

Hey Yog, how did today go? Just wanted to check in on you. Nancy sends her love. Let me know when you're out of the courtroom mate. Andy x

"What a result, hey?" Levi's voice pulls George away from his phone. "Guilty of both charges."

"It's wonderful," George answers, bringing Levi in for a hug. "And I'm so proud of you for how you handled yourself in there. You were fantastic."

"I feel like I got a bit too emotional," Levi comments, his mind already ticking overtime in regards to the 'what could have been'. "I suppose it doesn't matter. We got what we went for. Now we just have to wait to see what sentence he gets."

"If it's anything other than prison, there's something wrong with the world," George snipes. "He shouldn't be allowed to walk free and risk hurting someone else — or worse."

"No, you're right," Levi agrees. "But I guess we cross that bridge when we get to it. We should head back to Goring and pick the kids up from Mum's. It feels as though she sees them more than we see them, these days."

"It's like you say — one catastrophe after another," George chuckles. "But yes, let's head home."

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