I turned to the bench.

“Your Honor, I’m not asking for revenge. The process has taken its course. I’m asking for orders that mean my daughter never has to look out our window and wonder whether these people are coming up the driveway.”

The sentences came down according to each one’s part in it. Gertrude received a substantial term in a state facility for the assault itself. Samantha received a long probation, mandatory psychological treatment, severely restricted parental rights, and a permanent no-contact order.

The three sisters received probation, community service, and orders to stay away from us.

It ended their hold on our lives completely.

Part Six — The Circle of Protection

A year after the sentencing, summer came back to Connecticut, and Chloe turned ten.