THE STORM AFTER THE SILENCE
The courthouse was packed.
Reporters, cameras, and curious onlookers filled every corner as Serena was led in, handcuffed, her eyes still burning with hatred.
Elara stood beside Lucien, fingers intertwined.
"She's finally facing justice," Elara whispered.
Lucien nodded.
"But it still doesn't feel real."
---
Serena's Trial
Inside the courtroom, evidence was presented:
• Kidnapping
• Bribery
• Forgery
• Prison escape
• Harassment and threats
Serena laughed bitterly.
"You think jail will change anything?" she shouted.
"They'll never love you like they loved me!"
The judge slammed the gavel.
"Order!"
Elara watched quietly.
For the first time, she didn't feel anger—only pity.
---
Lucien's Public Apology
Outside the courthouse, reporters rushed Lucien.
"Mr. Blackwood! Do you regret your past marriage?"
Lucien took a deep breath.
"Yes," he said firmly.
"I hurt people by staying in a toxic relationship too long."
He looked at Elara.
"But today, I choose honesty. I choose my wife. I choose my child."
Cameras flashed wildly.
Elara's eyes filled with tears.
---
Pregnancy Scare
Suddenly, Elara winced.
Lucien froze.
"Elara?"
"My stomach…" she whispered.
"It hurts."
Panic rushed through him.
They were back in the hospital within minutes.
---
The Doctor's News
After tests, the doctor smiled.
"Relax," she said.
"The baby is fine."
Lucien exhaled deeply.
"But," the doctor added,
"Stress is still dangerous. She needs peace."
Elara laughed weakly.
"Peace? After all this?"
Lucien squeezed her hand.
"We'll create it."
---
Serena's Sentence
Later that day, the verdict came:
Serena Blackwood – 15 years imprisonment.
No parole.
She screamed as she was dragged away.
"You haven't won!"
But no one listened anymore.
---
A New Beginning
That night, Lucien carried Elara into their bedroom.
"From now on," he said softly,
"no more fear."
She smiled.
"Just us."
He kissed her gently
"Our family"