Me Before You

PART 42: Fresh Chapter

TWO WEEKS LATER

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The tension in the courtroom was thick with anticipation. The judge had meticulously listened to the arguments from both sides, weighing the evidence and deliberating over the fate of Mr. and Mrs. Wong. As everyone awaited the judge's ruling, the air was packed with suspense.

Yin and War sat side by side, their hands gently entwined. War's gaze was fixed on Yin for a moment, his eyes filled with concern and worry. War was worried that watching Yin's parents face the consequences of their misdeeds would have a profound emotional impact on Yin.

The judge's gaze swept across the courtroom, his eyes resting on the defendants. "After a careful review of the evidence presented in this case," he began, "and after considering the arguments of both sides, this court has reached its verdict."

The room seemed to hold its breath as the judge continued, "The court finds Mr. and Mrs. Wong is guilty of conspiracy to commit a criminal act, specifically, orchestrating a car accident with the intent to harm Mr. War and wrongfully confining him in an old building. These actions have not only violated the law but have also caused immense suffering to the victims involved."

War turned his head to look at Yin, his eyes searching for any sign of distress. He was ready to provide comfort and support, fearing that Yin might be overwhelmed by a mix of emotions. But as their eyes met, Yin gave him a reassuring smile. It was a smile that told him everything was fine.

The judge's voice remained unwavering as he pronounced the verdict. "Furthermore, the court recognizes the severity of these offenses and the profound impact they have had on the lives of Mr. Yin and Mr. War. Therefore, in accordance with the law and the severity of the crimes, Mr. and Mrs. Wong will be sentenced to prison."

A gasp of disbelief swept through the courtroom. Even Yin's parents now convicted felons, exchanged a stunned look as the reality of their actions finally came crashing down upon them.

The judge continued, "Mr. and Mrs. Wong, you are hereby sentenced to a prison term of 20 years for conspiracy to commit bodily harm in the car accident. Additionally, you will each serve an additional 15 years for the illegal confinement of Mr. War Wanarat."

The courtroom buzzed with reactions, a mix of astonishment and satisfaction that justice was being served. Mr. Wong, who had maintained a stoic demeanor throughout the trial showed a flicker of emotion before he regained his composure.

But the judge was not finished. "Furthermore, both Mr. and Mrs. Wong will be required to pay restitution to Mr. Yin and Mr. War for the physical and emotional suffering he endured as a result of their actions. This restitution will cover medical expenses, therapy costs and compensation for pain and suffering. Additionally, there are lifetime restrictions preventing you from ever meeting or getting too close to Mr. War."

The judge concluded, "These sentences are not just a punishment but also a message that our legal system will not tolerate actions that harm others, especially when those actions are driven by malice and selfish motives. The court is adjourned."

With a final bang of the gavel, the courtroom erupted into a frenzy of emotions. Yin and War's friends cheered, their applause mingling with tears of joy. The media, ready to capture the moment, surged forward to capture the reactions of the key players in this dramatic legal battle. Their lawyer, Mr. Max, offered a satisfied nod.

Yin pulled War into a tight hug as if the embrace could convey all the words he could not express. "I love you, baby. I love you so much," Yin whispered, his voice trembling with the battles they had fought and the hope they carried for a better future.