91 Home Alone, Almost
(Winona)
I sit in the living room of my townhouse, my ankle bracelet itching against my skin. The quiet space echoes everything I do, adding to the horrible feeling of Abby not being here with me.
But I’m home. That’s a start.
Gordon Brown, my lawyer, sits across from me, a stack of papers in front of him. His legal team is scattered around the room, their faces serious and focused. My parole officer is also present. Sheila Hobbs.
I feel scared just looking at her chunky build and she must be at least six foot tall. Short hair and an expressionless face.
I glance at the clock, wondering how much longer this ordeal will last.
Gordon clears his throat, drawing my attention back to him. “Winona, we need to go over the conditions of your house arrest. These are non–negotiable, and you must adhere to them strictly. Do you understand?”
I nod, my stomach twisting with anxiety. “Yes, I understand.”
He shuffles through the papers, pulling out a sheet, he hands it to Shella.
She reads it through and then begins to relay it to me. “First, you are not to interact with the alleged victim, Ashlyn Brennan, or her immediate family. This includes Jayden Brennan and his immediate family.
I feel a pang in my chest at the mention of Jayden’s name. The memory of our last encounter still stings. I get it,” I mutter, trying to keep my voice steady. Like I’d want to interact with Judy anyway.
“Second,” she continues, “you cannot interact with any named witnesses. This is crucial. Any violation of this could severely damage your case.”
I nod again. “Okay. How will I know who they are.”
“We’ll get a list in due course, and we’ll develop a list of our own.” Gordon says with a small smile. “Who we call in order is important, and we can present new witnesses as needed. So, it’s best to not speak with anyone who might impact the case in any way.”
“I see. So I can’t have anyone then.”
“You are allowed to interact with Lisa Goodson for emotional support, but only here, in your townhouse where everything is monitored, and limited visiting hours to daytime,”
“But Lisa could become a witness, what happens there?”
“There would be the same restrictions imposed,” Gordon says.
“Does she have to be a witness?” I ask.
“The only legal persons who can refuse to testify against you are those with privileges such as attorney- client, doctor–patient, spousal,” Gordon explains and then he winks.
I think he’s trying to convey something to me about this, so I don’t ask any more questions on that.
ortse Alone. Almost
+25 BONUS
My parole officer continues. Third, Abby will visit you with Anne, but you cannot discuss the case with ither of them. There will be time restrictions on that as well as Lisa.”
I brighten at the mention of seeing Abby. “How soon can she visit?”
tay quiet.
“We’ll get to that.” Gordon nods and I stay
“Furthermore, all your electronic interactions will be monitored. This includes phone calls, emails, and any other form of communication. No social media allowed. Camera’s will be set up at your door and certain areas. Not your bedroom or private areas like your bathrooms.”
I swallow hard, the reality of my situation sinking in deeper. “Got it.”
“I will make unannounced contact including visits to see if you are compliant.” She eyes me carefully. “I take my work very seriously. Don’t try to play me.”
“I have no intention of doing anything to risk going back to jail.” I look directly at her and don’t blink.
She seems satisfied and nods and goes back to reading the information out. “No alcohol or drugs allowed in the premises aside from prescribed medications.”
The thought of being cut off from the outside world entirely feels like another blow, but I understand the necessity. “Understood,” I reply, my voice barely above a whisper.
I hold onto the thought of seeing Abby again for strength.
“I need you to sign these documents agreeing to these terms. Please read them thoroughly again, Winona.” Gordon takes the list back from Sheila and gets a few more from his pile.
I take them all.
“You’ll see all the terms explained in detail to read and then the basic list with signature required on the last page. Take your time. If you need a break, that’s fine.”
I really just want to get this over with, I look at the first sheet.
Trust me. Just go with it. Don’t react. Keep reading.
I reread that part and keep a blank face. What is Gordon up to?
We need Phillip here as your spouse. I’ve contacted him. I think he’s solid. Jayden is going for full custody and to get his name on the birth certificate. We can fight this with Phillip’s help. You need to trust me
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