Page 162 of Clinically Delicious
“Yes, Your Honor,” Richard echoed, his smile sharp.
Here we go.
Anthony was brilliant.
I’d known he was good, but watching him work was like watching a surgeon. Every word was precise. Every argument calculated. He presented Gabriel’s case methodically: his career, his dedication to Megan, his stable home environment. He called character witnesses—Fitz, who managed to be both professional and charming, talking about Gabriel’s commitment to his patients and his daughter. Nathan testified about Gabriel’s reliability and his integrity.
Even Hayden took the stand, describing the supportive environment at the clinic, the way Gabriel balanced his demanding career with his responsibilities as a father.
Through it all, I sat quietly, my hands folded in my lap, trying to look like the perfect supportive wife.
Don’t talk. Don’t move. Don’t do anything that could be used against us.
Then Ms. Carmella Rodriguez took the stand.
My stomach dropped.
Oh God.
She’s going to tell them about the ninja dream. She’s going to tell them about the chaos. She’s going to tell them I’m a disaster.
But she didn’t.
“Ms. Rodriguez,” Anthony said, standing. “You conducted a home visit at the Lyon residence, is that correct?”
“Yes.”
“And what were your findings?”
She consulted her notes. “The home was clean, well-maintained, and appropriate for a child. Megan’s room was age-appropriate and clearly decorated with care. The kitchen was well-stocked with nutritious food options.”
She’s not mentioning the glitter.
Or the teepee.
Or the fact that we were clearly panicking.
“And your assessment of the family dynamic?”
“Megan is clearly well-cared for and loved. Both Dr. Lyon and Mrs. Lyon demonstrated appropriate concern for her well-being. Mrs. Lyon, in particular, showed a strong emotional bond with the child.”
She’s... she’s saying nice things.
She’s actually saying nice things.
I felt Gabriel’s hand tighten on mine.
“Thank you, Ms. Rodriguez,” Anthony said, returning to his seat.
Richard stood. “Ms. Rodriguez, during your visit, did you notice anything... unusual about the household?”
Here it comes.
“Could you be more specific?” Ms. Rodriguez asked.
“Well, for instance, did Mrs. Lyon seem anxious? Nervous? Perhaps overly talkative?”
Oh God.
