Chapter 8
“Elias wants to see you,” Quentin said the moment we met. “He’s agreed to take whatever legal punishment comes his way. The only thing he’s asking for is a chance to talk to you.
“He knows he screwed up, and now he’s asking you for another chance. He’ll serve his sentence without saying a word as long as you agree.”
I thought it was absurd.
“His willingness doesn’t count. He broke the law, so he has to deal with the fallout. And on top of that, the woman he’s been obsessed with is your wife, Laura. Doesn’t that bother you?” I asked.
From what I knew, Quentin was the guy who always returned the favor and never let betrayal slide. But when it came down to it, family was family.
“No matter what, he’s my brother. I want to give him another chance. The real one pulling the strings here is Laura. She played both Elias and Melvin. She’s the one who deserves to get it the worst,” he explained.
“Unfortunately, I’m the only one who actually got hurt. I’d never give him that chance,” I retorted.
I rested my hand on my useless legs, refusing to meet Elias.
Three months later, the trial started, and at the police’s request, I attended as the victim. In the courtroom, I saw Elias and Melvin for the first time in ages. They both looked worn out.
The moment they saw me, they broke down in tears.
“Jean, I’m sorry. I know I was wrong. I finally realized it’s always been you in my heart. Laura seduced me on purpose and used me to hurt you. I see it now, but it’s too late. Please, I’m begging you. Please forgive me,” Elias pleaded.
“Jean, I’m so sorry,” Melvin apologized. “I know what I did was unforgivable. Whatever the court decides, I’ll accept it. I just hope you’ll spend more time with Mom and Dad. They really do care about you.”
I noticed my parents watching me, along with Bertha, who used to throw insults at me. Their eyes were full of silent pleas, hoping I’d say something to lighten the sentence, even just a little. But I didn’t.
The law was finally handing me the justice I’d earned. Even if it came too late, it was what I deserved.
Soon, the verdict came down. The evidence was clear, and Elias and Melvin were hauled off. Those scumbags who’d played a part in
