Chapter 12 - MY ASSAULT CASE
My mother had a bruised cheek.
Her shoulder hurt from falling into the nursery chair.
No fracture.
No concussion.
The video was clear.
I blocked no attack.
I did not need to strike her to retrieve Noah.
I already had him.
Claire already held him.
Vivian spoke.
I slapped her.
Misdemeanor assault.
My attorney, Samuel Pierce, suggested the prosecutor might consider intense provocation.
For disposition.
Not justification.
I said:
"I’ll take responsibility."
The prosecutor offered diversion.
Anger-management.
Restitution for Vivian’s documented medical expenses caused by my strike.
No unlawful contact.
No new offense.
Completion could result in dismissal.
I accepted.
My first session was with Dr. Russell Ford.
He asked:
"What did your slap accomplish?"
"It ended the argument."
"Did it?"
"No."
"What ended it?"
"Security. Hospital. Police. Claire leaving."
"What did you want your mother to feel?"
I stared.
"Afraid."
"Why?"
"Because she made Claire afraid."
"So you answered fear with fear."
"Yes."
He nodded.
May you like
I hated him immediately.
Useful.
