When court resumed after lunch, the gallery was more crowded than before. News had spread that the case was entering closing arguments. Reporters filled the press area. Members of the public sat silently behind the barriers. Victor returned to his seat with his shoulders slumped and his eyes empty. Richard sat behind him again, but there was now a distance between them that everyone could feel.
Damian entered and took his seat.
"Counsel, you may proceed with closing arguments."
The defense attorney stood first. He walked slowly before the jury, his voice measured and calm. He did not pretend Victor was innocent. He did not deny that Victor had made terrible choices. Instead, he focused on uncertainty.
