Court

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I step out of the shower, the hot water doing little to calm my nerves. Adriana's house finally offers some solace amidst the turmoil of the day ahead. Wrapping myself in a towel, I walk to the bedroom, feeling the weight of the day pressing down on me. I choose a simple t-shirt and jeans, something comfortable and familiar. After getting dressed, I let my hair down and brush it out, trying to steady my trembling hands.

Rigel is waiting for me in the living room of Adriana's house. When he sees me, he stands and walks over, pulling me into a comforting embrace. "You look great," he whispers, his breath warm against my ear.

"Thanks," I reply, my voice shaky. "I'm so nervous, Rigel."

"We'll get through this," he reassures me, holding me tighter. "I'm right here with you."

Sitting on the sofa in Adriana's house brings back a flood of memories. This place, once a sanctuary, now feels like a battleground for the truth I must face today. Rigel holds my hand, his thumb gently rubbing circles on my skin, grounding me.

Adriana walks into the room, her face a mix of concern and support. "Are you ready, Norah?" she asks softly.

I take a deep breath and nod. "As ready as I'll ever be."

We arrive at the courthouse, the imposing building adding to my anxiety. Rigel stays close, his presence a constant source of strength. Inside, the atmosphere is tense, the air heavy with anticipation.

We sit together, waiting for our turn. Rigel whispers words of encouragement, and Adriana gives me reassuring smiles. When it's time, we stand and walk into the courtroom. The sight of my mother, seated and restrained, sends a shiver down my spine.

The judge calls for order, and the proceedings begin. I take the stand, my heart pounding in my chest. I glance at Rigel, who gives me an encouraging nod. I know I must be strong, not just for myself, but for everyone who has supported me.

"Norah, can you please tell the court what your mother did to you?" the judge asks, his voice calm and authoritative.

I swallow hard and begin. "My mother... she was abusive. She poisoned my father, slowly killing him while he was already sick. She hurt me, physically and emotionally, for years. She made me feel worthless."

The courtroom is silent as I recount the painful memories. Rigel's gaze never leaves me, his silent support giving me the courage to continue.

"She would hit me, scream at me, and tell me I was a burden," I say, my voice cracking. "But the worst part was what she did to my father. He was already ill, and she made his last days a living hell."

Tears blur my vision, but I push through. "She made sure he suffered. And when he finally died, it was a relief because he was finally free from her torment."

The judge listens intently, his expression somber. When I finish, he nods. "Thank you, Norah. Your bravery today will not be forgotten."

After my testimony, the judge delivers the verdict. "Based on the evidence and testimony, this court sentences the defendant to 100 years in prison for murder of a sick person and abuse."

Adriana pulls me into a tight hug, tears streaming down her face. "You did it, Norah," she whispers. "You're finally free."

I feel a weight lift off my shoulders as I realize that justice has been served. Rigel takes my hand, squeezing it gently, and I smile through my tears. We may have faced darkness, but together, we found the strength to emerge into the light.

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