As the judge deliberated, I couldn't shake off the feeling that something was off. Priscoll's lawyer had been overly confident, and Priscoll himself had been smirking throughout the hearing.
Finally, the judge returned with his decision.
"After careful consideration, I hereby rule in favor of the defendant, Priscoll."
I felt like I had been punched in the gut. How could this be? I had told the truth, and I had provided evidence of Priscoll's abuse.
As I looked around the courtroom, I saw Priscoll's lawyer smiling and shaking hands with the judge. It was then that I realized the truth Priscoll had bribed the judge.
I felt a wave of anger and frustration wash over me. This wasn't fair. I had played by the rules, and Priscoll had cheated his way to victory.
As I left the courtroom, I saw Priscoll waiting for me, a triumphant smile on his face.
"You'll never be free of me, Joanna," he sneered.
