Chapter 23 - Helen’s Hearing

Helen appeared before the sentencing judge by video.
Her attorney requested six months be removed from the remaining term.
The judge reviewed cooperation.
Age.
Medical issues.
Original conduct.
Victim impact.
Then asked Helen:
“Do you believe you deserve release?”
Helen answered carefully.
“I believe I deserve the sentence the law considers appropriate.”
The judge frowned.
“That wasn’t my question.”
Helen swallowed.
“I don’t know what deserve means anymore.”
Then:
“I know staying silent hurt people.”
The court reduced her sentence modestly.
Not erased.
She would leave earlier.
Tasha heard.
“Good.”
Helen smiled.
“I expected you to object.”
“Why?”
“Your mother.”
Tasha looked at her.
“My mother wanted truth.”
Not endless suffering.
May you like
Another lesson.
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