Chapter 9 - The Trial's Final Conclusion
Six months later, the final sentencing hearing took place.
I walked into the federal courtroom holding six-month-old Hannah in a front carrier. My burned arm had healed into a faint, thin scar—a mark of survival that I no longer felt the need to hide under long sleeves.
Ryan stood at the defense table in a orange jump suit, his hands handcuffed at his waist. He looked gaunt, defeated, his former arrogance completely shattered by six months in federal custody. Patricia sat beside him in matching prison garb, her eyes dull and lifeless.
The federal judge delivered the final sentence with unyielding severity.
"Ryan Vance, for the crimes of felony assault on a pregnant individual, attempted extortion, perjury, and federal wire fraud, you are hereby sentenced to twenty-five years in federal penitentiary without the possibility of early parole."
The gavel hit the wood. Bang.
"Patricia Vance, for your role as an accomplice to felony assault and fraud, you are sentenced to twelve years in state custody."
Bang.
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Ryan turned his head toward me as the guards began leading him toward the side exit. His eyes were filled with tears, desperate for some sign of pity or recognition.
I didn't look back at him with anger. I didn't look at him with hatred. I simply adjusted Hannah in her carrier, turned my back on him, and walked out of the courtroom into the bright afternoon sunlight.
