Chapter 15
Garrett’s trial began in January.
His lawyers attacked everyone.
Carl was greedy.
Tiffany was emotional.
Alexander was vengeful.
I was ambitious.
That word followed me through the courtroom.
Ambitious.
As if wanting a life above survival made me criminal.
On the stand, Garrett’s attorney asked, “Miss Ellison, isn’t it true this case has benefited you?”
“Yes.”
The courtroom stirred.
He smiled.
“In what way?”
I leaned toward the microphone.
“I learned I am allowed to defend myself.”
His smile faded.
“I meant financially.”
“I know what you meant.”
Simone’s mouth twitched.
He tried again.
“You are now publicly associated with Mr. Sterling.”
“I am publicly associated with being assaulted.”
“And privately?”
“Privately is not on trial.”
The judge warned him to move on.
The evidence was overwhelming.
Payments to Carl.
Threats to business owners.
Messages to Tiffany.
Pressure on city officials.
Garrett Vale had treated Los Angeles like a chessboard and service workers like disposable pieces.
The jury saw it.
When they found him guilty on multiple counts, Tiffany sobbed.
Garrett did not.
He looked at Alexander.
Then at me.
“You think this makes you equal?”
I stood.
The bailiff moved closer.
I answered calmly.
“No.”
May you like
I touched my cheek, where the memory of the slap had finally faded.
“I was always equal. This just made you hear it.”
