“I am a staunch believer in the wisdom of the great William Blackstone, who said that it is better that ten guilty go free than that one innocent suffer,” Judge Gold says. “That sentiment, erring always on the side of preventing even the smallest injustice, is found throughout all civilized codes of law. And so let me be the first to say, Ms. Broden, that you have acted in the interest of justice today.”

I nod to accept the judge’s thanks. I’m certain Drake McKenney will not agree. If I had brought Dana Goodwin to a guilty verdict, the Special Vics bureau chief position would have been mine. Now, earning a living as a singer will likely be my only career option. Unless I want to go back to work for my father, which I most certainly do not.

“Ms. Goodwin,” Judge Gold says. “I hereby dismiss all charges against you. In the eyes of the law, you are not guilty. Therefore, I wish you Godspeed.”

Two more gavel strikes follow, but they do nothing to silence the din of the gallery. Judge Gold dismisses the jury and, after they leave the courtroom, he exits to his chambers. It’s only when the door shuts behind him that I turn to Dana Goodwin and see that she’s embracing LeMarcus Burrows.

Having made his way to the well of the court, Gabriel puts his arm around me. “I’m so proud of you, Ella.”

LeMarcus Burrows interrupts. “Excuse me,” he says. “But I just wanted to say, on behalf of my client, thank you.”

I acknowledge his praise but don’t offer the usual response that he’s welcome. Dana Goodwin doesn’t owe me her thanks. I didn’t do this for her, after all. I did it for Lauren.

LeMarcus must pick up on my reasons because then he adds, “Not every ADA would have done it, Ella. Though everyone should. That’s what I’m thanking you for. For making certain that justice has been served.”

Over my shoulder, I again spy the defense table. Dana Goodwin is receiving an embrace from her husband. I hope to God that I’ve done the right thing.

58. DANA GOODWIN

58.

DANA GOODWIN

My first thought as a free woman is about Jacob, of course. My sweet angel boy.

Then I feel Stuart’s arms coming over my shoulders from behind. “It’s all over, Dana. I never doubted for a second that you’d be set free. And now . . . now we can begin the rest of our lives together. You, me, and Jacob.”

I don’t respond to his fantasy about living happily ever after. Instead, I pull away from his embrace and cross the six feet to the prosecution table. Ella Broden is surrounded by her second seat, LeMarcus, and Gabriel. The trio parts to allow my approach.

“Thank you,” I tell her.