Three months passed before the final court hearing took place.
The courtroom was filled with local reporters and family members.
Mark sat next to his legal team near the front row.
Eleanor sat across the aisle with her defense attorney beside her.
The judge cleared his throat and looked down at his papers.
Judge: We have reviewed all medical reports and bank records.
Eleanor's lawyer tried to speak up in her defense quickly.
Defense Lawyer: My client was under severe emotional stress, Your Honor.
Judge: That is no excuse for child endangerment and fraud.
The judge slammed his heavy wooden gavel down onto the desk.
Judge: Eleanor Vance is hereby sentenced to five years in prison.
Eleanor began to cry as the bailiff stepped forward to lead her away.
Mark felt a huge heavy weight drop off his tired shoulders.
He turned around to see Rachel sitting right behind him smiling.
Rachel: It is finally over, Mark. She can never hurt her again.
Mark: Justice was served for my little girl today, Rachel.
They walked out of the heavy courtroom doors into the sun.
The bright afternoon light felt warm and soft on their skin.
Mark drove his car straight back to his comfortable suburban home.
He walked up the front steps with a light, hopeful heart.
He opened the front doors without any fear inside him now.
The house felt warm, clean, and full of peace at last.
Claire came running down the hallway with a happy bright smile.
Claire: Daddy! Look at the picture I drew for you today!
Mark dropped to his knees and wrapped his arms around her.
Mark: I love it so much, my brave little girl.