“The defendant likely used emotional manipulation techniques,” the doctor speculated.
“No questions,” I said again.
By the time Sterling rested his case, the sun was high in the sky. The narrative they had built was comprehensive: I was a broke, manipulative, unemployed loser who had stolen a fortune from a confused old woman and her loving family.
“The Plaintiff rests,” Sterling announced, slamming a binder shut. “The evidence is clear, Your Honor. The defendant is unfit. The will is a product of fraud.”
Judge Halloway sighed and rubbed her temples. She looked at me with a mixture of pity and annoyance.
“Ms. Vance,” she said. “It is your turn. Do you have… anything? Any witnesses? Any documents? Or should I issue my ruling now based on the uncontested testimony we have heard?”
My father leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms. He winked at my mother. It was over. They had won.
