Chapter 11 - THE DEAD WOMAN WALKS IN
Michael was arrested on a Tuesday morning.
Police took him from our house while television crews gathered outside.
He wore sweatpants.
He looked furious.
He demanded to know what evidence they had.
No one told him I was alive.
Not yet.
The prosecutor wanted the reveal preserved for the arraignment.
Michael spent sixteen hours inside county jail believing he had been arrested for financial fraud and conspiracy based on Ashley's cooperation.
His attorney prepared arguments.
Michael prepared lies.
Then Wednesday morning arrived.
The courtroom was packed.
Reporters had heard rumors that the Carter case involved an unexpected development.
Michael entered wearing a dark jail uniform.
His eyes searched the gallery.
He saw Ashley first.
She sat behind the prosecution table with two attorneys.
Michael's face twisted.
"Bitch."
The deputy beside him ordered silence.
Then the judge entered.
Everyone stood.
I waited in a side room.
Daniel stood beside me holding James.
My son wore a small blue hat.
He was finally strong enough to leave the hospital under careful monitoring.
"You don't have to do this," Daniel whispered.
"Yes, I do."
Rebecca opened the door.
We entered.
The courtroom did not understand at first.
A few people recognized me instantly.
Then the sound began.
Gasps.
Whispers.
A reporter dropped her pen.
Michael turned.
Our eyes met.
I will remember his face for the rest of my life.
Not grief.
Not love.
Not relief.
Pure terror.
He stood so suddenly his chair fell backward.
"No."
The judge struck the gavel.
"Mr. Carter."
Michael pointed at me.
"No."
I walked slowly to the front row.
My wrist was still braced.
A faint scar crossed my forehead.
Daniel followed carrying James.
Michael saw the baby.
His knees nearly failed.
I sat down.
For several seconds, he could only stare.
Then he whispered, "Emma."
I looked directly at him.
"Hello, Michael."
He started shaking his head.
"This isn't possible."
I almost smiled.
"That's what happens when you don't check your work."
His attorney grabbed his arm and told him to stop talking.
Too late.
Every microphone in the courtroom caught it.
The prosecutor stood.
"Your Honor, the State is amending the charges."
Attempted first-degree murder.
Conspiracy to commit murder.
Insurance fraud.
Wire fraud.
Evidence tampering.
Attempted unlawful acquisition of marital assets.
Michael's attorney requested immediate recess.
The judge denied it until arraignment was complete.
Michael kept staring at James.
"Is that my son?"
I said nothing.
He looked at me.
"Emma, please."
The man who had smiled while I fell suddenly wanted mercy.
Then Daniel moved into the seat beside me.
Michael looked at him.
Confusion replaced fear.
"Who are you?"
Daniel's expression did not change.
"The man who found her."
Michael looked from Daniel to me.
Then back.
May you like
Daniel leaned slightly forward.
"And I'm the reason you'll never touch her money again."
