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But unlike with Savannah, that won’t get me out of this situation.
Ms. Guzman nods. But… Is that a small smile on her face?
Damn. I wish they would just spit it out instead of spouting all this legalese. Just tell me if I’m going to prison or not.
Lola knows what she’s doing. She had me memorize all of those monologues and their extremely specific wording for a reason…
But I can’t shake the feeling that something bad is going to happen. If not here in the courtroom, then somewhere else.
And soon.
“Given Mr. Bellamy’s acknowledgment of the violation,” Mr. Lane says, “his commitment to addressing the issue, and his otherwise good record, I propose that we do not revoke his parole.”
A huge weight falls off my shoulders. My mind goes blank, and then confetti cannons go off in my brain. I could almost cry.
They’re not sending me back.
“Instead, we could consider imposing additional conditions, such as more frequent meetings with his officer.”
That’s fair. I can handle that. It’s bullshit and I won’t get anything out of it, but that means I can stay out of prison. I can still see my sweet Savannah. Still make passionate love to her every night until the day I die.
“I agree with that approach,” the third member of the board says.
Ms. Guzman nods. “I concur with my fellow board members, your honor. Let’s give Mr. Bellamy the opportunity to prove that this was an isolated incident with special circumstances. I believe he can continue his rehabilitation successfully.”
“Very well,” the judge says. “Mr. Bellamy, your parole will not be revoked at this time. Do you wish to say anything to the board?”
“Yes,” I say. “Thank you, members of the parole board. I appreciate your understanding, and I’m committed to demonstrating that I can succeed on parole and overcome this setback.”
They all nod at me, and the bailiff clears the courtroom.
Lola pats me on the shoulder. “You ready to go home?” she asks.
I nod. “One second.”
I run to the door of the courtroom. Leo Ficus, my new parole officer, is about to walk out.
“Mr. Ficus.” I put my hand out. “I want to apologize for my absences. I’ve already explained myself in my testimony, so you know the story. Still, though, I don’t want us getting off on the wrong foot.”
Leo Ficus looks like he’s about twenty years older than Savannah. He has a strong jaw and a bushy salt-and-pepper mustache that matches the mane of silver hair framing his face. His eyes are cold and no-nonsense.
He stares at my hand. “I gather you got away with a lot with your previous parole officer.”
I swallow. “Yes, sir. We met before I realized who she was. And we fell in love.”
He blinks. “Rest assured, Mr. Bellamy, that we will not be having as casual a relationship. I will expect you to report to your meetings on time. You got a second chance today. Don’t waste it.”
I shake my head. “I don’t intend to, Mr. Ficus.”
“Good.” He turns away. “I’ll shake your hand when I believe you’ve earned it. In the meantime, I expect you’ll be returning to Ms. Gallo.”
“I will, Mr. Ficus.” I walk back toward Lola, but then turn back to him. “And I mean it. I look forward to our professional relationship.”
He nods and exits.
Lola is packing her briefcase. She chuckles as I approach her.
“What?” I ask.
