32: Verdict

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CHAPTER 32: VERDICT

CHAPTER 32: VERDICT

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Vincent Florence

The final trial began now. And on this day, it is my turn to give my testimony as to what went down that chaotic night. Of course, Malik and my mom prepared me for any questions I will be given. 

Malik proposed that for me, the prosecutors may pull out all the stops. It seems that they’re hellbent on making me take the majority of the fall for this fiasco. Whether it’s because I’m lower class, or because Sarah has a personal vendetta against me and blames me for everything going on in her life, who knows? But I will not fall without a fight.

Time stood still as soon as I was called up on the stand. I felt like the whole world was watching me as I stepped to the witness stand, where I was sworn in. For a moment, all I could hear was a ringing in my ear while I stared at the glass of water next to my hand. 

“Mr. Florence!” I heard someone call.

“I’m sorry.” I replied, looking up to see Malik standing in front of me. 

“Is everything okay? Will you be fit to answer today?” Malik asked.

“I'll be fine.” I replied. That seemed to satisfy him and the rest of the court. My mom, who sat in the audience, gave me a reassuring smile. 

“Perfect. Please state your name and what school you attend.” Malik said. 

“My name is Vincent Florence. I attend, or attended, Auburn Brights Academy. I only just transferred for my senior year.” I answered.

“From my understanding, you applied for the Auburn Lottery, which selected one lucky student who also met the qualifications, to attend the academy. And you applied and got accepted. Is that correct?” Malik asked.

“Yes,” I leaned into the microphone. “That’s correct.”

“Can you give me a rundown as to how your first few days at Auburn were like? The emotions, anxiety, or thoughts you had during those weeks.”

“Objection! Relevance!” One of the prosecutor’s lawyers said. The judge dismissed their objection and allowed me to answer. 

“The first few weeks were a chimera of mixed feelings. There was an overwhelming sensation that I was not welcomed, and that I did not belong. But I also had friends that welcomed me with open arms. Thanks to them, I was able to find my people.” 

“Speaking of your friends, can you explain your relationship with all of them?” Malik asked.

“Connor is my boyfriend. We started dating midway during the first semester. Percy, Percival, is a close friend. He was the one that first showed me around campus on my first day. Tavia is a person I can confide with. She may be extreme at times, but can be a good companion. Archibald is both quiet but has been known to be devious at times. And Dorian has a presence that makes you feel calm, like she takes your worries away.” I explained.

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