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Abigail, the man is homeless. He probably has mental health issues. There’s no rational reason.”
But Abigail couldn’t shake the feeling that something was wrong with this story. “I need time to think.”
She said. Richard frowned. “Don’t take too long. The media is waiting for your statement.
Silence makes you look weak.” After he left, Abigail sat in her quiet apartment and made a decision.
She decided to stay silent. Not because she forgave Marcus. Not because she understood what happened.
But because something deep in her gut told her that this story wasn’t as simple as everyone thought.
And until she figured out the truth, she wouldn’t add her voice to the angry mob.
Three days later, Marcus sat in a small room at the courthouse with his public defender, a young lawyer named Thomas Chen.
Thomas looked exhausted. He had too many cases and not enough time. “Marcus, I’m going to be straight with you.”
Thomas said. “This case is unwinnable. We have you on video committing assault. We have hundreds of witnesses.
The prosecution has offered a deal.” “What kind of deal?” Marcus asked. “You plead guilty to a reduced charge of disorderly conduct.
You serve 6 months in county jail with possibility of early release for good behavior.
No permanent record if you complete anger management classes after you get out.” Marcus stared at him.
“You want me to say I’m guilty?” “I want you to be realistic.” Thomas said.
“If you go to trial, you’ll lose. The judge will give you 2 to 3 years in state prison.
Maybe more. This deal gets you out in 6 months.” “But I didn’t attack her.”
Marcus said, his voice rising. “I was trying to save her.” Thomas sighed. “Marcus, I believe that you believe that.
But do you have any proof? Any evidence? Any witnesses who can support your story?”
Marcus thought about it. The two men were gone. Nobody else had heard their conversation.
Nobody would believe a homeless man over the evidence of their own eyes. “No.” He admitted quietly.
“Then take the deal.” Thomas urged. “6 months and this nightmare is over.” Marcus sat very still.
He thought about 6 months in jail. He thought about how easy it would be to just say yes, to admit guilt, to make this all go away.
But then he thought about something else. If he admitted guilt, the truth would disappear forever.
Those two dangerous men would get away with whatever they were planning. Abigail would never know that someone had tried to save her life.