Chapter 61

Rowan threw the pen aside and snarled at Natalie. "You'll pay for your brashness and bad attitude. Even if you kneel before me and beg for forgiveness, I will show you no mercy." The staff stamped the court's insignia onto the certificate and handed it over. "Thank you." Natalie pressed the certificate to her chest. For the first time, it felt as though the chains around her had fallen away. Outside the courthouse, she waited for a cab when a sweet scent drifted through the air—strawberries. A small truck was parked nearby, piled high with cartons of strawberries. A couple was picking through them. Natalie walked closer. Sarah loved strawberries, and Natalie wanted to get some for her. The man grumbled, "Why's this so expensive? 20 dollars for one box? Is it made of gold?" "It's not gold," the young seller explained patiently. "These are imported golden strawberries—sweeter and juicier than regular ones. Most strawberries sell around this price." "Let's buy some," the woman pl