Shayla
The tension in the courtroom felt like a suffocating blanket as Shayla's legal team prepared to call their final expert witness to the stand. My stomach twisted with nerves, but I kept my expression neutral, determined not to give Terrance or his lawyer the satisfaction of seeing my anxiety. Chris sat close beside me, his hand resting on mine under the table, a quiet but constant source of strength. I squeezed his fingers lightly, grateful for him in that moment more than words could ever express.
Ms. Greene stood, her voice clear and steady. "Your Honor, the prosecution calls Dr. Abigail Merrick, expert in forensic psychology, to the stand."
All eyes shifted as Dr. Merrick made her way to the witness stand. She was a composed woman in her late forties, with sharp eyes and an air of professionalism that filled the room. After taking the oath, she adjusted her glasses and folded her hands neatly in front of her, waiting for Ms. Greene to begin.
