Chapter 17 - The Other Choice
Julian's assault case came before the court before Meredith's financial case was resolved.
His lawyer had explained the consequences carefully.
He could describe the emergency without using it to excuse what he did after Lena was safe.
Julian pleaded guilty to the misdemeanor assault charge.
"I hurt Meredith," he told the judge.
"I frightened Lena. I was wrong, and I accept responsibility."
The judge imposed probation, counseling, and community service under the applicable court order.
Julian left with a schedule of appointments and no sense of victory.
At Mae's house, Lena was painting a cardboard theater for her stuffed animals.
"What happened in court?" she asked.
"The judge decided what I have to do because I hit Meredith."
"Are you going to jail?"
"No. I have rules to follow and work to do."
"Was she allowed to take my mask?"
"No. That's being handled separately."
Lena adjusted a paper curtain.
"I thought if someone was bad to you, you could be bad back."
Julian sat on the carpet beside her.
"I thought that for a second, too. I was wrong."
"What should you do instead?"
"Get help. Tell the truth. Make sure you're safe. Then let other people do their jobs."
She considered his answer and handed him a cardboard wall.
"Hold this while the glue dries."
Julian did.
It was an ordinary task, and he had missed ordinary tasks more than he knew.
Later, Rachel called.
Owen's cooperation, the bank records, and recovered messages had strengthened the case against Meredith.
Her attorney had opened discussions about a guilty plea that could spare Lena from testifying in a contested trial.
"What does Lena want?" Julian asked.
"We should not put that legal choice on her shoulders," Rachel replied.
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"But her advocate can make sure her needs are heard."
Then Rachel added, "Meredith's lawyer is asking for the child's impact statement."
