Can’t Win Me Back by Ginger Sue

The court session resumed at 3:00 pm sharp.

The entire session was still being live-streamed. Everyone was now familiar with the presiding judge, the prosecutor, the plaintiff, and the defendant.

In the morning, the public gallery was packed to the brim. Now, it was just Alyssa, Jasper, and their family and friends. The quietness was chilling.

None of the other Becketts were present. Even Sophia's daughter, Betty, was too embarrassed to attend the session.

Sophia and Jeffrey walked out one after another. Their hands were cuffed. Once again, they were led to their respective seats in humiliation.

Metal railings separated Sophia and the rest of the courtroom. Her hair was in disarray. She was expressionless. She scanned the gallery with a blank look in her eyes.

She observed that only the Taylor family remained. A twisted expression took over her face, and she couldn't help herself and burst out laughing.

Steven frowned. He tapped the gavel. He coldly instructed, "Please be quiet, defendant!"

Simon struggled to maintain his composure. His face was rigid, as if a light touch might shatter

he

as they proceeded to the plaintiff's seat. He offered gentle pats on her

It was hard enough for her to get through the tumultuous session in the morning. She barely had anything

way until now for the court's final

and he felt terrible for her. He had been preparing for this hearing day and night. He swore to be in his best condition. He wanted to do his very best to

Jasper had helped to strategize. Other than

now looked slightly different than when they were in the

someone who paid attention to his image. He was severely short-sighted. So, he

for moments of

The room was silent.

He had a stern expression on his face. He lifted the written verdict with his hands. He read it out in a clear and strong voice, "I hereby announce the verdict on Jeffrey