Chapter 13
Paula testified.
Her voice shook.
But she told the truth.
Then the forensic expert testified about the EpiPens.
Then the digital analyst testified about Vanessa’s searches.
Then I took the stand.
The prosecutor asked about Laura.
I told them she sang while packing lunches.
That she cried at every school program.
That she kept backup snacks for allergic kids in her nurse’s bag.
That she loved Noah with her whole body.
Then he asked about Vanessa.
I described meeting her after Laura died.
How kind she seemed.
How patient.
How she said she understood grief.
How she slowly stepped into every empty place.
Vanessa’s lawyer asked, “Did you want someone to blame because grief is unbearable?”
I looked at him.
“Yes. Grief is unbearable.”
He almost smiled.
Then I said, “But grief did not forge a pregnancy. Grief did not tamper with EpiPens. Grief did not tell my son he was being handled.”
The smile died.
Margaret testified too.
She read Laura’s final text.
Running late. Dessert looks amazing. Kiss Noah for me if I miss bedtime.
That was the last message Laura ever sent.
I cried until my throat hurt.
May you like
Vanessa stared at the table.
I hoped the words haunted her.
