Convicted

Part 5

I look at my reflection in the metal panel at the foot of my bed. Do I look like a murderer? Did the jury think so?

"Miss Vaux, we must return to the courtroom now. The jury have reached their verdict" my lawyer tells me in a serious tone.

I swallow the water I've been drinking and throw the plastic cup in a bin. Despite drinking three cups of water, my throat still feels parched. I nod at my lawyer and follow her back through the courtroom doors.

I feel almost like a celebrity, as people seem unable to look away from me. My face burns under their accusing gaze. The man who shook his head at me slowly rises from his chair.

I feel as though I am suddenly in a bubble, unable to hear anything anyone is saying. Then I hear it.

"..and we find the defendant guilty of murder"  says the man.

My stomach twists. They think I did it. They really think I did it. I'm going to prison.

"No! You can't do this! I swear I didn't kill her! She was my best friend and I loved her" my voice cracks on the last two words, as tears choke me and prevent any noise escaping my throat.

I still remember the moment clearly. I don't really think a memory as poignant as that ever leaves a person's head.

Nausea completely overcomes me at the memory and I fight the urge to vomit, or scream. Or maybe both. Instead, I curl up in the corner of the room, and let my head rest on my knees. My tears soak my sleepwear.