Karen’s voice wavered at first, then grew steadier with each word.
“I’ve bailed you out three times. I’ve covered for you with the school, with the police, even with our neighbors. And every time, I told myself you’d learn. I wanted to believe the sweet boy I raised was still in there. But instead, you’ve been laughing in everyone’s face—including mine.”
Her voice cut sharper. “Don’t tell me I don’t know. Do you think I didn’t notice the missing money from my purse? Or the nights you disappeared, hoping I was too tired to care? I’ve carried this weight alone, Ryan. But today, I’m done protecting you.”
A murmur spread through the crowd. Karen turned to the judge, her eyes wet but determined.
“Your Honor, my son believes he’s untouchable because I’ve been shielding him. He thinks consequences don’t apply because I’ve softened every blow. If you want to know why he’s like this, it’s partly my fault. I made excuses. I wanted to believe he’d grow out of it. But now… I can’t.”
The Turning Point
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