Page 78 of Little Twisted Things

“You need to make the decision of where you want to be. You can either stay here or spend many years at Bellevue Psychiatric Hospital.”

“Oh.” She stared at the water. “I like it here. This is my home and where my husband is.”

“I know. That’s why I’m giving you the choice. It’s your decision, Katherine.”

“If I stay here, you’ll have to endure Bellevue, right?”

“Yes.” I smiled.

“It’s not fair to you,” she said.

“Oh, it’s fair. I’m the one who went on a killing spree. Not you. You shouldn’t have to suffer a life of being locked up for something you had no control over.”

“I don’t want to leave here. Who will look after Elias and Sydney?”

“Exactly.” I smiled.

“Besides. There’s something I haven’t mentioned yet.”

“Oh yeah? What?”

“I’m pregnant. I’m finally going to have a baby, Dahlia.”

“That’s wonderful news, Katherine. I’m so happy for you.” I reached over, took hold of her hand, and squeezed it.

“Thank you. Elias is over the moon about it. He’s already starting to plan out the nursery.”

“Then I guess the decision is made. You stay here, and I’ll go.” I smiled.

“Will you still visit us?”

“You know I will.” I held up my glass. “Sisters forever.” I smiled.

“Sisters forever.”

46

The courtroom was silent. I sat beside my attorney with my hands folded on the table in front of me. The chains around my ankles felt heavier now than when I’d walked in. The judge removed his glasses and asked us to rise.

“Ms. Tate. You have been thoroughly and extensively evaluated by Dr. Isabella Bondi. The evidence and her reports establish that, at the time the murders occurred, you were suffering from a severe mental illness that greatly impaired your ability to distinguish reality from your actions. This court also recognizes that you continue to require extensive psychiatric treatment in a secure environment. It is therefore the order of this court that you continue your stay at Bellevue Hospital’s secure psychiatric unit until such time as this court is satisfied that you no longer pose a danger to yourself and others.”

There was no release date. Just until someone decided.

Court ended, and two guards cuffed my wrists, gripped my arms and escorted me out of the courthouse.

“Katherine.”

I turned and looked at Detective Walker.

“Can you give us a moment?” she asked the guards.

They stepped to the side but stayed close enough in case I bolted.

“I’m sorry. I do understand it’s not your fault, and I really hope you get the help you need.”

“Thank you, Detective Walker. I plan on it.”

She stared at me for a moment. “You seem different.”