The Diary Keeper ["The Dark Legacies" Series]

Chapter 42: In the halls of justice

As the day of the court hearing arrived, I found myself in Ravenwood, getting ready for this significant event. Today, the judge would finally announce the true heir of Di Flores Manor, a decision that held immense importance for our lives.

I carefully chose my attire, wanting to make a good impression while staying true to myself. I opted for a sophisticated yet elegant outfit, making sure to pay attention to every detail.

"Liandra, that dress is too short for a court hearing. You're not going to a disco," scolded my mother.

"My dear, in such attire, you shouldn't go anywhere, not just a disco," added my grandmother.

But I simply ignored them. These adults love to lecture.

As I stood in front of the mirror, adjusting a few loose strands of my hair, my thoughts raced. The courtroom would soon be filled with people eager to know the outcome, each with their own stake in the matter.

Leaving my room, I made my way with my whole family to the courthouse. The hallways were abuzz with whispered conversations and anticipation. Faces reflected a mix of anxiety, hope, and curiosity. Everyone had their own theories and speculations about who the true heir might be.

As I took my seat in the courtroom, my eyes scanned the room, searching for familiar faces. Caroline and Kaira were there, their presence providing me with a sense of support and camaraderie. We exchanged glances, silently acknowledging the significance of this moment.

Half of the town seemed to have gathered here, eagerly awaiting the outcome of the court proceedings. Journalists busily scribbled notes, capturing every moment of this significant event. Cameras flashed, capturing the tension in the air. Even the mayor, Caroline's mother, was present, representing the town's vested interest in the outcome.

Whispers and murmurs filled the room as people exchanged theories and predictions. Some were hopeful, while others couldn't hide their anxiety. The courtroom felt like a pressure cooker, ready to explode with emotions and revelations. The presence of the media added an additional layer of intensity to the atmosphere, heightening the sense of importance and scrutiny.

As I scanned the crowded courtroom, my eyes landed on a familiar face that caught me off guard. It was Mabel, my ex-friend, sitting there... with a small baby in her arms. The sight left me utterly astonished.

I couldn't help but wonder, who was this child? Could it be Mabel's new sister or brother? The possibility seemed surreal, yet the evidence was right before my eyes. I hadn't heard anything about Mabel having a sibling, let alone a baby. The confusion and curiosity gnawed at me, demanding an explanation.

My heart raced as I contemplated the various scenarios. Could Mabel have become a young mother herself? The thought was both shocking and intriguing, leaving me eager to uncover the truth.

Although Mabel and I have been estranged since childhood, I think it's time we had a conversation. Tentatively, I made my way through the bustling crowd, my eyes fixed on the precious bundle in her arms.

"Mabel," I called out, my voice laced with a mix of surprise and curiosity. "Who is this little one?"

She turned towards me, a mix of emotions crossing her face. There was a hint of sadness, tinged with a glimmer of joy.

"This is my daughter," Mabel finally replied, her voice filled with a sense of tenderness and protectiveness. "Her name is Charlotte."

My mind raced, trying to process the revelation. Mabel had become a mother. These are the realities of our lives - someone at 15 hangs out with ghosts in the cemetery, while someone else takes care of their own child. Each of us has our own trials.

"Oh... My congratulations," I responded hesitantly. "And who is the lucky father?"

"Our classmate, Roy."

I remained silent, barely holding back my comments. That's how life puts everything in its place - the school queen and the most popular girl gave birth at a young age to a child of the local loser.

Roy was always known for his abusive behavior, conflicts with the police, and low academic performance. He wasn't blessed with either looks or intelligence. Moreover, his family constantly faced financial troubles. How did Mabel end up with him?

"Are you living together now?" I mustered the courage to ask.

"Who?" Mabel seemed to be trying to avoid answering.

"You and Roy."

"Oh..." She blushed. "He's in prison. That's what happened."

I couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction and vindication upon learning that Roy was in prison. The news confirmed what I had always believed about him - that he was nothing more than a troublemaker and a burden on society. Seeing him face the consequences of his actions brought a twisted sense of pleasure, as if karma had finally caught up with him.

My thoughts drifted to Mabel and the poor choices she had made. How could she have fallen for someone like Roy? It was a clear reflection of her own poor judgment and lack of self-respect. She had chosen to align herself with someone who had a track record of violence and instability. It was a decision that I couldn't understand and had no desire to sympathize with.

As I reflected on Roy's situation, I couldn't help but feel a sense of superiority and gratitude for my own choices. I was determined to continue making positive decisions and surround myself with individuals who would uplift and inspire me. Roy's downfall served as a constant reminder of the importance of staying on the right path and avoiding the pitfalls that could lead to a life of regret.

"That's a pity," I said indifferently and returned to my seat.

The hearing began in a minute. The courtroom was filled with anticipation as the judge prepared to deliver the verdict on the inheritance of Di Flores Manor. Rumors had been swirling, speculating about who the true heir might be. It was a case that had captured the attention of the entire town, and everyone held their breath, wondering what the unpredictable verdict would reveal.

The judge cleared her throat and began to speak, her voice echoing through the room. "After careful consideration of the evidence presented, and taking into account the historical significance of Di Flores Manor, I hereby declare that the unexpected heir to the estate is..." The judge paused, her eyes scanning the room, building the suspense.

Whispers filled the air as people exchanged curious glances. No one could predict the outcome, as the truth of the matter remained shrouded in mystery. The judge's words hung in the air, as if time had momentarily frozen.

Her voice resonated with a sense of finality as she declared, "In the absence of a valid testament, it is determined that Di Flores Manor shall be sold, and the proceeds shall be divided among the rightful relatives of the late owner."

The final verdict resonated through the courtroom, sealing the fate of Di Flores Manor. It was a result that I had anticipated to some extent, yet it left me with a lingering sense of unease. As the realization settled in, a torrent of questions flooded my mind, each one more pressing than the last.

Who could have orchestrated such an elaborate scheme, crafting a false testament to deceive everyone? And what were their true intentions behind this deceit? The more I dwelled on it, the more I began to suspect that the mansion itself might be a treacherous trap, carefully designed to ensnare unsuspecting victims like me.

Was there someone pulling the strings from the shadows, manipulating the situation to their advantage? Could they be using the allure of Di Flores Manor as a lure, drawing unsuspecting individuals into a dangerous web of intrigue?

And one more question - who will be a new owner of the mansion?