Chapter 19 - The Story He Told the Judge
Ten months later, I walked into a courtroom in Manila with my mother's red notebook under my arm. I had been there before for hearings and statements. I no longer expected justice to arrive in one dramatic afternoon.
The forensic review had found the first fraudulent supplier account dated six weeks before Carlos proposed. Investigators alleged that Salazar had recruited him to gain access to Northstar's ownership structure. Carlos had married me knowing exactly what he wanted from my family.
I testified about the suitcase. I told the court what Marta did, what I heard, and what I did wrong when I moved the package. Carlos's lawyer asked that question three different ways, hoping I'd change my answer.
"I was frightened and angry," I said each time. "Then I reported it. I didn't make their plan for them."
The prosecution presented the recovered messages, financial records, witness accounts, and evidence about the substance. I watched the jury listen to the person hired to arrange the airport tip. He described being promised money for a photograph of me being detained.
Marta cried through much of the hearing. I couldn't tell whether she regretted what she'd done or only regretted being caught. Carlos stared at the floor whenever I spoke.
Separate proceedings over the warehouse fire continued. Salazar faced accusations tied to the sprinkler shutdown and fraudulent claims. Nothing in court could return Mom to me, and I refused to pretend a verdict could.
After the trial, the court found Carlos and Marta guilty on charges connected to the attempted framing and conspiracy; Carlos also faced consequences for the financial fraud. Samantha accepted responsibility for her part in the forged transfers under a separate agreement. Their legal teams continued to argue over sentencing and appeals.
Outside, a reporter asked whether I felt victorious.
"No," I said. "I feel like I finally know who I married."
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That night, my phone rang from an unfamiliar hospital number. A nurse asked if I would take a call from Marta before her transfer.
"She says she has one thing left to tell you about your mother."
