The judge opened with a summary of the case. It seemed to Donny that he was relishing it, going on about how this man had been alleged to have preyed on young teenage boys to run his empire. The prosecuting barrister laid it on even thicker, talked about the evils of drugs, how they wrecked homes and stole children from parents. And there in the front row sat Susan, savouring the scene of her husband in the dock. Donny looked at her and clenched his teeth together. This was what betrayal tasted like. Some might say it was a taste of his own medicine but for Donny, it was just confirmation of what he’d always known inside: you’re on your own in this life. If you don’t look out for yourself, as sure as shit, no one else will.

Susan was flanked by her brothers and they all glared down at Donny. He’d got off lightly in their eyes, he was a very lucky man.

Donny’s defence barrister tried to be positive as he summed up, but there was no way he could sugar-coat what his client had done. He told the court about the good things Donny had done with his life, the difference he’d made to so many children with their education, but the truth was there for everyone to see. Donny was a drug dealer and any good work he’d done in the community meant nothing anymore because of what he was being sentenced for today.

When he’d finished his summary, the barrister sat down and reached for a cold glass of water.

The judge was ready for sentencing now and asked Donny to stand up. Not so easy; Donny’s legs buckled and for a few seconds he could barely feel them. His mouth was dry and his heart was pounding. He closed his eyes for a few seconds, and whispered under his breath. Maybe he was asking the Lord above for forgiveness and to be spared from a long time behind bars. But not even God almighty could help Donny now.