Chapter 24

Once again, the courthouse was a madhouse with photographers and reporters. The Townsend family were getting used to the hustle and bustle of it all. But with any luck, they won’t have to put up with it too much longer.

It didn’t take long for court to get underway.

“Ms. Van Dyke, please call your next witness,” Judge Gehrig instructed.

Catherine stood. “The defense calls Donald Townsend.”

A bailiff who was at the back of the courtroom opened the door and stuck his head into the hallway.

A pin drop could be heard in the room when Don entered with a man behind him. Catherine assumed it was the lawyer Don had hired. She didn’t recognize him.

Don quickly strode to the front of the room. He wore a black suit, black tie, and white shirt. His hair was wetted and slicked back. He took the stand and a bailiff swore him in.

“Good afternoon Mr. Townsend,” Catherine said as she rounded the table.