The summons had come the following week. Scott was being charged with fraud, accused of embezzling funds from his latest failed venture. Ironically, it was the same business Grandpa had tried to salvage with another “loan.” Diane’s voice had been frantic on the voicemail she left, her words tumbling over each other in a rush, trying to justify their actions and pleading for my understanding.

But understanding wasn’t the same as forgiveness.

When I walked into the courtroom that day, it wasn’t just as their daughter. It was as an Assistant District Attorney who had built her career on holding people accountable for their actions. It was as the person who had vowed, years ago, to never be swayed by their empty promises and fleeting affections again.

Judge Brennan’s eyes met mine with recognition, his surprise quickly giving way to a measured respect. My parents’ surprise, on the other hand, lingered in their expressions, a mixture of confusion and disbelief. They had never seen me like this, standing on the opposite side of the law.

“Counselor Morrison,” Judge Brennan addressed me formally, nodding slightly. “I assume you’ll be representing the Commonwealth in this case?”

I nodded, feeling the weight of my role settle comfortably on my shoulders. “Yes, Your Honor.”

The gallery’s whispers grew louder, a rising tide of speculation and curiosity. But I ignored them, focusing instead on the man who had never shown me anything but indifference.

Scott sat there, finally forced to confront the daughter he had abandoned. Diane’s eyes darted between us, perhaps searching for a chink in my armor, a glimmer of the child she once knew.

But that child was long gone. In her place stood a woman who understood her worth, shaped by the love of her grandparents and the principles they had instilled in her.

As the proceedings began, I could feel Grandpa’s presence with me, his approval and pride like a warm hand on my shoulder. No matter the outcome, I was ready to see this through.

For years, my parents had tried to write my story for me, but this was my moment to reclaim it. Not as a victim, but as a victor. And as I addressed the court, my voice steady and sure, I knew that I was finally free.