Chapter 13 - Preston’s Final Lie Fell Apart in Front of the People He Humiliated
Preston appeared in court wearing a navy suit.
He smiled at the cameras.
His attorney described him as a respected philanthropist.
Then the prosecutor played the library footage.
I watched Preston grab my arm.
I heard myself cry out.
The room went silent.
The footage showed his companions blocking the door.
It also captured their laughter.
Preston stopped smiling.
The prosecutor presented my medical records.
Dr. Reyes explained the fracture.
Evelyn testified about the forged transfer.
Grace described the stolen charity funds.
My mother identified the original ledger.
Leah walked the jury through the money trail.
Then Matteo described the threats he had intercepted.
Preston's attorney challenged my memory.
He asked whether I wanted money.
I looked directly at the jury.
"I wanted to finish my shift."
My voice did not shake.
"I wanted my mother safe."
"And now?" the attorney asked.
"I want the truth on record."
The judge ordered the jury to disregard an improper question.
But everyone had heard my answer.
Outside, a young reporter approached me.
She asked whether I considered myself brave.
I shook my head.
"I was scared the whole time."
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Then I went home with my mother.
For the first time, nobody followed us.
