3
On the trial day, the courtroom was packed.
I stood at the defendant’s table, under
everyone’s gaze.
Lily wore a hospital gown, pale and frail.
She looked sickly, instantly eliciting sympathy.
She was in a wheelchair, Mark pushing her
carefully.
Like handling a priceless artifact.
John and Sarah glanced at me before sitting
at the plaintiff’s table.
My heart sank.
Their eyes didn’t show affection for a
daughter, but hatred for an enemy.
The plaintiff’s lawyer presented evidence.
“Everyone, see this video of the defendant
when she was first found.”
On the screen, the mansion was festive and
warm; everyone was smiling.
I, in worn clothes, got out of the car. Lily
greeted me, sweetly calling me “sister.”
I was awkward.
She took my hand, leading me into the living
room, Mark filming.
Suddenly, Lily stumbled, her head hitting a
corner, bleeding profusely.
I froze, not understanding what happened. From the angle, it looked like I’d pushed her. Seeing the blood, the audience was moved,
whispering and pointing at me.
Next was a family dinner.
Lily had a bandage, yet she smiled, serving
me food.
She didn’t seem to mind the morning’s
events.
Suddenly, I inexplicably spat my drink all over
her.
<
Without apology or explanation, I left.
Leaving a distraught Lily and grim–faced
family…
After the video, more evidence was
presented. The family testified, accusing me
of cruelty and malice.
Lily only cried, her vulnerable demeanor
inspiring protectiveness.
“On March 18th, Rachel hid a venomous
دو
snake under Lily’s pillow, almost biting her…‘ “On April 1st, Lily drank milk Rachel gave her, vomiting uncontrollably, needing emergency
treatment…”
33
“On May 6th, Rachel took pictures of Lily
showering, intending to post them online,
thankfully stopped…”
“On June 23rd, Rachel hid needles in Lily’s
shoes; tests revealed traces of HIV…”
John held up medical reports and photos.
“See? My daughter was bright and cheerful!”
“But after Rachel came home, she cut herself seven times in less than a year!”
“Doctors diagnosed her with severe
depression!”
“This proves the abuse and torment she
endured!”
“Rachel is a devil in human skin!”
Sarah cried, “My biggest regret is bringing
Rachel home, hurting Lily.”
“Lily, Mommy’s sorry.”
“My poor girl!”
“If you die, I won’t live either.”
