Chapter 14 - Justice Served Cold
Six weeks later, the federal district court held its final sentencing hearing.
I sat in the front row of the gallery in a clean navy suit, holding Juniper on my lap.
Tabitha and Orson sat at the defense table in bright orange jumpsuits, their hands and feet chained to the floor. Without her expensive makeup and designer clothes, Tabitha looked hollow, gaunt, and miserable. Orson stared at the wooden desk, broken and defeated.
Judge Morales adjusted her glasses and read from the sentencing memorandum.
"Tabitha Vance, for the calculated and malicious attempt on the life of a minor under your care, this court sentences you to twenty-five years at the Federal Correctional Institution without the possibility of parole."
Tabitha broke down into frantic, hysterical sobs, burying her face into her chained hands.
"Orson Vance, for corporate racketeering, conspiracy to commit murder, and judicial corruption, you are sentenced to thirty years in maximum security."
Orson didn't make a sound. He simply closed his eyes as the marshals stepped forward to lead them through the heavy iron side doors.
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As Tabitha was dragged past the gallery rail, she locked eyes with me one last time. There was no smirk left. Only the cold, terrifying realization that her cruelty had cost her everything.
I didn't say a word. I simply tightened my arm around Juniper and turned my back on them forever.
