Only You

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Michael
"This man," I say while pointing to Donnell,"Kidnapped. brutally raped, and abused an innocent woman. Do you want him out on the streets with your kids? Don't let the basketball player tittle fool you. Donnell PURPOSELY planned this out. He's a criminal."

I make sure to make eye contact with every jury member. My eyes do help because they give off a sort of intensity. The court room is quiet.

"That is all." I say before returning to my seat next to Fallon.

"The jury will now leave to make a verdict. One hour break." The judge says before slamming his hammer.

"All rise!"

Outside of the court, Fallon looks faint. I sit her down on a bench and fan her with a folder.

"Calm down, Fallon," I say.

"I'm trying to but it's just the nerves." She replies," I feel like I'm going to be sick."

"You can't vomit here. Let's go outside." I say while helping her up.

Imani takes my hand and we walk outside as a unit. I find a bench under some shaded tree and we take refuge there. For the most part, it's quiet. I buy Imani a hotdog and drink from a street vendor to keep her happy.

"Tynell testified for you. He's first-hand evidence to the brutality. You're good, Fal." I reassure her.

"Okay, okay. I believe you. All is well."

Fallon
The dreadful hour of waiting is over and Michael, Imani and I make our way back into the court. They bring Donnell out in a gray jumpsuit and handcuffs. I can't read his facial expression. Because of all the attention this has gotten, a couple people from the press are here with cameras.

"Has the jury come to a decision?" The judge asks.

Cameras click. I'm pretty sure I look terrible. A man stands up with a piece of paper.

"Yes, your honor,"

"In the first degree of aggravated assault, how do you find the defendant?"

The court is pin drop silent. I can pass out from nervousness. Michael squeezes my hand.

"We find the defendant guilty."

"And in first degree of sexual assault, how do you find the defendant?"

"We find the defendant guilty."

I smile to myself.

"A further date will be set for sentencing. For now, the defendant shall be kept in the county prison. Court is adjourned." The judge says before banging his mallet and standing up.

Donnell turns his face and spits out," Bxtch!" while being escorted out of the court. I laugh and Michael picks me up off my feet and spins me around. He kisses my lips before putting me down. Imani jumps up and down with her arms outstretched waiting for a hug.

I pick her up and hug her.

"You too daddy," she says.

Michael wraps his arms around us and says,"My favorite girls."

"Let's go home." I suggest.

I put Imani down and grab my purse. The press is already on our butts taking pictures and asking questions.

"She's not answering anything right now." Michael says while shooing them away.

Tynell stands by the court door with a smile.

"My dear friend, Tynell." I say while taking his hands,"I owe you my life."

He squeezes my hands and smiles,"You don't owe me a thing. Take care of yourself."

"What you mean? Where are you going?" I ask.

"I'm moving to LA. I can't stand the east coast no more." He replies.

I stare into his eyes and know that he's lying. If he's stays here, he might get killed. I just met him and he's a really good friend. I force a smile and hold back the tears,"Congratulations. I wish you the best."

He kisses my cheek and hugs me,"I'll call you."

Tynell pulls away and leaves without turning back.

Author's Note
Sorry for the long wait 😖 I'll be quicker next time.