THREE MONTHS LATER

"The defendant, Steve Hale, is hereby convicted of the crimes of murder in the first degree, tampering with evidence, and felony fraud for staging his own death and attempting to evade justice."

The gavel struck with a final, resounding *thwack*. "Court dismissed."

Ivy's eyes gleamed as she got up from her seat. The taste of triumph was too sweet not to gloat. She could feel Steve's eyes burning into hers, but it was clear as crystal—he was utterly powerless now.

Zack hugged her from the side and murmured into her ear, "Let's get you home; you must be tired."

Ivy nodded, smiling wearily. She had insisted on...