Chapter 10 - The Reckoning in CourtThree months later, the criminal trial of Derek and Bertha Vance commenced at the county courthouse.
The courtroom was packed to capacity with reporters, corporate executives, and members of high society who had once called Bertha a friend. Now, they watched in fascinated horror as the mother and son sat at the defense table in bright orange prison uniforms, their hands chained to their waists.
When the prosecution played the crystal-clear video recorded by four-year-old Gideon’s tablet, the entire courtroom fell into horrified silence.
The screen showed Arianne lying on the floor, weeping and begging for her child, while Derek struck her across the face and Bertha pinned her arms to the tile floor, forcing a pill between her lips.
Bertha covered her face in shame, while Derek stared blankly at the floor, his defense attorneys sitting motionless, knowing there was no defense left to offer.
When it came time for victim impact statements, Arianne stood up from the spectator gallery. She walked slowly up to the podium, her head held high, wearing a simple navy dress. She looked straight into the eyes of the man who had abused her for six years.
"For years, you made me believe I was weak," Arianne said, her voice echoing clearly through the courtroom. "You made me believe I had no one, no voice, and no future. But you forgot one thing, Derek."
She turned slightly, looking back at where I sat in the front row.
"You forgot that my father taught me how to rebuild things that are broken," she said with absolute conviction. "You tried to destroy me, but today, my son and I are free."
The judge didn't hesitate.
"Derek Vance, for felony assault, torture, and unlawful restraint, you are sentenced to twenty-two years in state prison."
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"Bertha Vance, for felony accomplice liability, tampering with evidence, and illegal administration of a controlled substance, you are sentenced to twelve years in state prison."
As the guards led the screaming, weeping pair away to begin their sentences, I stood up, wrapped my arms around my daughter, and held her close. The nightmare was finally over.
