Chapter 25 - I TAKE THE STAND
I testified because I had direct knowledge of Celeste’s awareness and the old reaction.
Relationship?
“Older cousin.”
Grace?
“My daughter.”
Allergy?
I described diagnosis.
Emergency plan.
Engagement dinner.
Epinephrine.
Hospital.
My demand against Sienna.
The prosecutor asked:
“Why did you believe Celeste’s account?”
I looked at Celeste.
“Because she was family and I was afraid.”
“Afraid of?”
“That Grace had nearly died.”
“So?”
“I wanted a clear person to blame.”
“And Sienna was clear?”
“She had a title.”
There.
Then the wedding.
“Did Grace intentionally hit Celeste’s plate?”
“No.”
“How do you know?”
“I saw the final movement. Video confirms.”
“Did Celeste strike her?”
“Yes.”
“Did you strike Celeste?”
“Yes.”
“Was Grace already behind you?”
“Yes.”
“Why?”
“Anger.”
No heroic rewrite.
Defense stood.
“Mr. Rosati, you told Celeste, ‘You humiliated my blood over food. Now pay for it.’”
“Yes.”
“Threat?”
“I was angry.”
“Your family is known to take threats seriously?”
Objection.
Judge limited.
The defense rephrased.
“Did Celeste have reason to fear retaliation from you?”
“Yes.”
“Did you contact witnesses?”
“I contacted Cecily—wrong story? No. In this case, Sienna? I did not after investigation reopened.”
Good.
No contamination.
“Did you use business leverage after Grace’s prior reaction?”
“Yes.”
“Without full evidence?”
“Yes.”
“So you have a history of acting first when Grace is involved.”
“Yes.”
That hurt.
Correct.
“Could your current belief about Celeste be another example?”
“It could be. That is why I am describing what I personally know and leaving the emails and witnesses to you.”
No speech.
Just truth.
After leaving the stand, Grace was not waiting outside.
She was at school.
May you like
Volcano day.
That felt right.
