A list of minor offenses was read through for both of us. Vandalism, petty theft, truancy, etcetera. What I took from the judge’s lecture was that I’d gotten caught way too many times in the past four years.
It was strange listening to all of it, because that wasn’t who I was anymore. I couldn’t imagine pulling the dumbass stunts I had in the past now that I had Gianna in my life. Anything that took me away from her was a bad idea. I needed to be the kind of guy she deserved and could count on.
She was coming back in just six days. After getting court over with, I looked forward to a fresh start with her. I’d plan how to bring her back to herself and heal her hurts.
Last week, I’d done something completely out of character and checked out library books on psychology and helping victims of violence. I’d paid special attention to information pertaining to victims of sexual assault.
As much as it turned my stomach to think about what Gianna went through, I needed the advice on how to help her work through it. The books told me what kind of behavior to expect from her. Her emotions could include guilt, shame, embarrassment, depression, anger and detachment. Basically every crappy feeling possible.
I’d also learned all sorts of tips and methods for healing. I’d leave the hardcore therapy to whatever psychiatrist her dad set her up with, but there were simple things I could do to help her. When she came back, I’d gently start helping her heal.
“Caleb Morrison.” As the judge stated my full name, I realized it was judgment time. “Ian Crenshaw,” the judge also said. I glanced over at Ian to see his lawyer place a hand on his shoulder for support. We’d both entered a no contest plea as our lawyers had advised.
The judge continued, “Unfortunately, the victim was not able to attend the hearing. However, after reviewing the case, hearing the arguments from your lawyers, I’ve come to a decision.” The sour expression on his face began to worry me. “I can understand the reason behind the brutality you both displayed. But as a judge, I have to follow the letter of the law. This wasn’t the first instance of assault for either of you boys. Repeatedly, you’ve ignored the dictates of the law and done as you’ve seen fit. Had this been a first offense, probation would have been my course of action.”
He sighed as if it was his life in the balance. “Seeing an escalation in the seriousness of your crimes, I feel it is in your best interests that I order a harsher punishment for both of you. A punishment which will hopefully deter you from future infractions that would see you in prison as adults later on in life.”
I felt real apprehension start to build within me. Looking over at Ian, I took in his clenched fists. Suddenly feeling hot, I wiped the sweat off my brow and glanced behind me at my parents. My mom was already crying.
Turning back to the judge, I imagined him as the grim reaper in his black robe. “I order your parents to take you to the State of Colorado Youth Corrections facility in Pueblo by Monday morning at 9am. You will each remain at that facility in the custody of the state for the duration of 304 days from now, approximately ten months.”
Hitting his gavel, the judge effectively ruined my life.
“True love stories never have endings.”
-Richard Bach