“Dr. Maxwell. Why did you set your house on fire? Were you trying to kill your husband and children?”
“Is it true that you thought he was cheating on you?
“Dr. Maxwell. How did you get out of jail so fast after pleading guilty to a felony second-degree arson? Why do you think the judge allowed you to serve only thirty days instead of a ten-year sentence?”
Olivia shrunk behind sunglasses and refused to make eye contact with the swarm of reporters. She was thankful for the clothes Savvy brought to her, along with a large floppy hat, which helped conceal her face. Her first taste of freedom became cannibalized by the eager public fishing for details. She clung to Savvy’s arm for support.
Her attorney stepped between her and the mob of people to make a statement. Her silver dreadlocks wrapped into an enormous French roll on the top of her head gave her a look which demanded respect.
“Excuse me. Are you her attorney? Can you tell the public why your client is being shown preferential treatment?”
“Folks, please back up and give Dr. Maxwell some space.” “Yes, my name is Jewel Noble and I am representing Dr. Maxwell. Anyone who knows Dr. Maxwell is shocked by the events which have been reported.”
“Attorney Noble, why did Dr. Maxwell start the fire?”
“As you heard during her court case, the fire was a result of a very complicated situation and a history of circumstances which were a product of the relationship. She is a dedicated mother to her children and a highly respected psychologist in our community.”
“Attorney Noble. Can you please explain why Dr. Maxwell is not sentenced to prison?”
“Her husband, Malcolm Turnipseed, wrote a character letter to the court asking she not be sentenced to prison. She has served thirty days and paid a fine of $60,000 in restitution for the crime, and will provide community service during her ten years of probation. The probation will be deferred based on behavior. Now, we just ask for privacy. Thank you.”
A chorus of “Dr. Maxwell” and “Attorney Noble” followed the trio to the limousine waiting to whisk them away.
As the car moved onto the highway, Savvy hugged Olivia in the back seat. “You are free, Olivia.”
“Thank God.” Olivia hugged her friend and smiled.
With God’s gift of freedom, the daunting task of healing awaited Olivia. She would begin with herself, and then, her children.
The End
Reasonable Insanity Page 25