From Ranchhands To Soulmates (A Yellowstone Fanfic)

Chapter 23

Chapter 23

Caroline's POV

*3 months later*

We had finally escaped the drama that is, and was Monica. We have rebuilt the barn, built the kids a treehouse, and even hired more ranch hands to take the stress off the family. Today is the day of Monica's trial and we have made sure to provide Jamie with every piece of information that can ensure that she will never be released to torment my family ever again. "You sure you have everything, Jamie?" John asked, putting his cowboy hat on. "Trust me, Dad, this is one thing I won't lose on," Jamie says confidently, closing his briefcase and tightening his tie. "Alright then, let's go," John says as we head out to the trucks. "Carter, keep an eye on Tate, please," I say before hugging him tightly. "I will Momma, take it easy please," Carter said, rubbing my belly affectionately. "I will, munchkin. I love you both," I assure him with a wink. "I love you too," Carter says before heading for the barn. "Kayce, Beth, Rip, Let's go!" I called out as I made my way to the truck. "We're comin' darlin," Rip chuckles as he and Kayce walk up. "Where's Beth?" I asked, climbing into the front seat of my truck. "I'm here," Beth said, hurrying around from her car. "Sorry, I was pulling the security footage of the ambush," she said, handing Jamie a USB flash drive. "Wait, since when did we have a security camera?" I asked curiously. "Since the day I got here, I had them put up for protection and I'm so glad that I did," Beth answered with a grin. "They uh... they don't record all the time, do they, Beth?" John asked nervously. "No, they only record when I turn them on remotely. I'm the only one with access. It's secure. Don't worry daddy." Beth said comfortingly. "Come on, we've gotta go," I say, checking the time. "Let's hit it," Beth agreed as everyone loaded into the trucks and headed to town.

*Courtroom*

Kayce, Rip, John, Beth, and I immediately took our seats in the courtroom, with Kayce and Rip on both sides of me and Beth and John beside Rip, preparing to hear the testimony. Kayce held my hand, offering comfort while I offered him support through this. "Your Honor, ladies and gentlemen of the jury, the defendant, Monica Long, has engaged in a pattern of criminal behavior that has caused harm and terror to the Dutton family and others. She has violated the law and disrespected the legal system, and it is our duty to hold her accountable. Today, we will present evidence of her crimes, including harassment, violation of a restraining order, attempted murder, exploitation, and fraud." Jamie confidently stated to the court. "You may proceed, AG Dutton," the judge said, paying complete attention to the case. "The defendant has repeatedly contacted and threatened the Dutton family, including John Dutton and his children, with the intent of harassing and intimidating them. She has made numerous phone calls, sent threatening messages, and even showed up at their home uninvited. We have surveillance video that proved her being at the residence and witnesses, Your Honor. This behavior violates Montana's harassment laws and has caused significant emotional distress to the victims." Jamie continued showing the judge the surveillance video Beth gave him this morning. "Following a previous incident, the court granted a restraining order to safeguard Kayce Dutton and his family from Monica Long's behavior. However, she has repeatedly violated this order, contacting and approaching the family despite the court's explicit instructions. This is a serious offense that demonstrates her disregard for the law and the safety of others." Jamie explained as the judge cocked an eyebrow at the defendant and shook his head as he continued to listen to the charges brought forth. "The ambush on the Dutton family was a premeditated attempt to cause harm and even death. Monica Long was involved in the planning and execution of this attack, which put multiple lives at risk. This is a grave offense that warrants severe consequences." Jamie continued his motion as he spoke confidently. "Monica Long has exploited her position of power and influence to manipulate and deceive others for her own gain. She has used her wealth and resources to coerce and intimidate individuals into doing her bidding, including illegal activities. This exploitation has caused financial and emotional harm to numerous victims. Including witness and former ranch hand, Jake Ream." Jamie said with a smirk. "The defendant has engaged in fraudulent activities, including embezzlement and money laundering, to further her own interests and fund her criminal endeavors. She has deceived investors, business partners, and even her own allies, causing financial ruin and damage to reputations." Jamie stated. "In conclusion, Monica Long's crimes are a testament to her disregard for the law, her lack of empathy for others, and her willingness to cause harm to achieve her goals. The evidence presented today demonstrates her guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. I urge you, the jury, to hold her accountable for her actions and ensure justice is served. Thank you." Jamie ended his argument after giving every piece of evidence against Monica. "Thank you, Attorney General Dutton, for your thorough and passionate argument. The charges against Monica Long are indeed severe and carry significant consequences. To the Defendant Monica Long, I must say that the evidence presented by the prosecution is compelling and raises serious concerns about your behavior and actions. However, it is important to remember that in our justice system; the defendant is innocent until proven guilty. I must carefully consider all the evidence presented and weigh the arguments made by both sides before reaching a verdict. I instruct you, the jury, to deliberate carefully and consider all the evidence, including any mitigating or aggravating circumstances. Your duty is to apply the law as I instruct it to you and reach a verdict based on the evidence presented. "Jury, I dismiss you to deliberate," the judge says before the jury stands up and exits the courtroom. "We will reconvene when the jury comes back with a final verdict. You're all excused," the judge says with a bang of his gavel. "Come on, everyone, let's go get some lunch while we wait," John says to us as the courtroom audience starts to exit the room. "Yeah, that's a good idea. Shouldn't be too long for the Jury to come to a decision." Kayce said, offering me his hand as I stood on my feet and we exited the courtroom.