He heaved, his breath coming in ragged burst of air. It wasn’t fair. It wasn’t right. No one was taking his side. “I need to go.”
Evan grabbed his crutches and began protesting, but Guy walked away without a backward glance.
Chapter Thirty-Three
Michelle sat across from Tanya and leaned forward. “No matter what the verdict, we’ll get through it, okay?”
Tanya nodded, blinking rapidly. Michelle could see the tears hovering, but the girl was strong. “Thanks for all you’ve done, Boss.”
She smiled, no longer irritated by the nomenclature. She knew Tanya meant it as a sign of respect. “No problem. Thank you for teaching me about compassion.”
Tanya pointed to herself. “How did I do that?”
She sighed. “I hated drunk drivers until you forced me to come to terms with it. I had to let the bitterness go. You taught me compassion. Thank you.”
Tanya cleared her throat. “Anytime.”
The prosecutor opened the breakroom door. “The judge is back.”
Michelle looked up and thanked him. They rose and headed back to court. She tried to appear calm but her stomach was rolling uncontrollably. She had never wanted to win a case so badly. Lord, please help. Please let the judge rule not guilty.
They stood as the Judge entered and settled in the chair. He looked at Michelle then at the D.A. “This has been an interesting case, to say the least. I had to do a double take when I saw you sitting with the defendant, Ms. Thomas.”
She nodded in acknowledgement although she wanted to throw up from the nerves. Would he get to the point? Why did all judges feel the need to pontificate before giving their verdicts?
“I appreciate the professionalism you both brought to this court room. After hearing the evidence and reviewing all information provided, I have come to a decision regarding the charges.”
She inhaled.
“For the charge of involuntary vehicular manslaughter, I find the defendant not guilty.”
She closed her eyes.
“For the charge of vehicular manslaughter, I find the defendant not guilty.”
Thank You, God.
“For the charge of operating a vehicle while intoxicated, I find the defendant guilty.”
She glanced at Tanya to give her a look of reassurance. She was pale but strength shined in her eyes.
The judge took off his glasses and looked at Tanya. “Ms. Bledsoe, I read how you were willing to plead guilty in the preliminary hearing. It’s my opinion that this case should have never gone to trial. The D.A. should have taken the plea.”
He glared at the prosecutor then turned back to their table. “Considering your past history and your willingness to own up to your mistake, this court fines you one thousand dollars and we order you to seek psychiatric help regarding any lingering depression you may have.” He banged his gavel. “Court is adjourned.”
Michelle’s shoulder dropped in relief. She turned and gave Tanya a hug. “I’m so happy for you.”
“Thank you so much,” she whispered as tears ran down her face. “How can I ever repay you.”
She shook her head. “Not necessary. As of today, you no longer need to pay me any fees.” She grinned. “You’ll need to pay your fine instead.”
Tanya chuckled. “I’ll gladly pay it since I won’t be going to jail.”
“Amen to that.”
They laughed all the way outside.
THE SOUND OF THE DOORBELL surprised Michelle. Then again, it’s not like it would be Guy. He hadn’t answered any of her phone calls or texts. It seemed their relationship was over before it had truly begun. She sighed and opened the door.
“Hello, Michelle.”
She blinked. “Mrs. Pierre.”
“May I come in?”
“Sure, sorry.”
She stepped back trying to keep the panic at bay. Had Guy told her about their conversation? She bit her lip. What did Mrs. Pierre think of her? Her palms grew clammy as she realized Mrs. Pierre was probably here for that very reason.
His mother stared at her as if waiting for something.
“Would you like something to drink?”
“No. I...” her voice as she fiddled with the strap of her purse. “I wanted to come and apologize.”
Michelle’s eyebrows rose. She was sure if she looked in the mirror they’d be touching the start of her hairline. “Apologize for what?”
“For that day you came to me. You were looking for help, and I sent you away. I was bitter and considered you the reason why my son had left. I should not have taken my anger out on you. You were still a child back then.”
She stepped forward. “Mrs. Pierre, you have nothing to apologize for. If it weren’t for me—
“No, say no more. My son has to own up to his part in the whole mess.” She gathered her breath. “He told me what happened. Why you came looking for him.” Her eyes watered. “I am sorry that I did not offer you guidance or help.”
Michelle couldn’t believe what she was hearing. She was the one who had messed up, yet Mrs. Pierre was asking for her forgiveness? “Mrs. Pierre, really it’s not your fault. I have to own up to my own mistakes as well.”
Mrs. Pierre grabbed her hands. “Child. For that is what you are. You are younger, I am older. I should have been wiser, more.... more rational. I was not and because I was not, you didn’t feel comfortable sharing your pain with me. Yes, you have to own up to your mistakes, but taking the courage to tell my boy shows that you are ready to move forward. You chose the truth even knowing it may not end well.”
Truth.
It was what God had been after. For her to be honest, not just with others, but with herself and it was time to stop running from it. God loved her no matter what. He truly did want to work life out for her good. It was a comforting thought once she stopped ignoring the truth of His words. Somehow, she would be able to handle life. Even if it meant Guy wouldn’t be at her side.
But, Lord, please let him be at my side.
“I can’t
