We Lost Our Parents, But He Hasn't Lost Me

Chapter 3: The Last Message

Ryan's mother's voice was weak, broken by static, but every person in the courtroom heard her clearly.

"Ryan, if you hear this, take Ben and go to Judge Reed. Not the police station near Patricia's house. Judge Reed. Your father found something in the company records. Patricia knows."

The judge went still.

Ryan looked up sharply.

He had not understood that part before. He had been too afraid, too sad, and too busy keeping Ben fed to think clearly.

The message continued.

"Your father discovered money missing from the family business account. He thought Patricia was helping someone move it. We were going to report it tomorrow. If we don't make it home tonight, protect your brother. Do not sign anything."

The recording ended.

No one spoke.

Then Patricia's lawyer said, "Your Honor, this is emotional manipulation from a grieving child."

Judge Reed's face hardened. "Counselor, sit down before I hold you in contempt."

The lawyer sat.

Patricia stood anyway. "This is insane. My sister-in-law was paranoid. She always hated me."

Ryan turned toward her. "She trusted you. That's why it hurt her."

Patricia's face twisted. "You are a child. You know nothing."

"I know you came to our apartment the night after the funeral," Ryan said. "You told me if I gave you Dad's laptop, you would make sure Ben stayed with me."

The judge's eyes narrowed. "Did you give it to her?"

Ryan shook his head. "No. I hid it."

Patricia froze.

Judge Reed looked at the bailiff. "Secure the courtroom."

Patricia tried to move toward the exit, but the bailiff stepped in front of her.

The judge looked back at Ryan.

"Where is the laptop?"

Ryan hesitated.

Ben looked up at him with wet eyes.

Ryan finally whispered, "In Ben's backpack."

Everyone turned.

The small blue backpack sat under the witness stand.

And Patricia's lawyer reached for his phone.