It's a Nightmare

Chapter Thirty-Four

Lucas

The next morning was the trial. I was not looking forward to this. I couldn't look up at so many people and tell stories of my fathers abuse.

But Riley would be there and I couldn't embarrass her. Or she'd slap me again. I didn't want to embarrass her. She was just trying to protect me.

My girlfriend chose my outfit for me again. I had to admit; she was really good. Black pants. Navy blue dress shirt. Shiny black shoes.

She showed up, matching with me. A dark blue dress. Black kitten heels. Her long dark hair was pulled up into a french twist.

"We look amazing!" I said, pulling her closer to me. "You're really good."

She kissed me, "I know. Let's go."
***
And now, I sat up in the box beside the judge, staring out any everyone who came to the trial.

My father sat on one side of the case, with his lawyer. Riley sat on the other side, with Topanga.

The court case was wrapping up; the only thing I had to do was be questioned by Topanga. After that, the judge and jury would decide guilty or innocent.

"Mister Friar, please tell the court about your childhood." Riley gave me a knowing look.

"My mother left shortly after my brother was born. And after that, my father started abusing me. The beatings were small; emotional at first, but then the physical started. And he did everything. He took a knife to me. And anything you can think of, he did to me. I have so many scars."

"Prove it. I never left A scar on you!" Mr. Friar shouted from his seat.

A quick glance at Riley- who nodded- gave me confidence. I pulled off the shirt, and turned around. Huge gasps spread from the crowd.

"Quiet!" Judge Mathilde banged her gavel on the table. "Jury, do you need any further proof?"

"No your Honor!" One of the jurors cried. "Guilty!"

Twelve cries of guilty.

"Thirty years of jail time, for child abusing!" The judge cried. "Take him away!"

We did it! We actually did it! My fathers going to jail! And I can be with the love of my life! It's happening!