Trapped in the Love of Stepchildren
Chapter 20's

"We're going to get through this together, Laura," Daniel said with confidence. "We've proven to everyone how much we love each other and that our relationship is something precious."

Laura smiled and felt warmth in Daniel's words. "Yes, we can't give up. We must fight for our right to be happy and together."

"Daniel, thank you for being strong and being by my side throughout this process. I don't know what I'd do without you" Laura said happily.

Daniel looked at Laura with affection. "You're a strong man, Laura. You've faced so many challenges in your life, and I just want to give you the love and support you need."

Laura clasped Daniel's hand tightly. "I'm so lucky to have you by my side. You're an amazing man, and I never thought that I could find a second love after losing Tom."

Daniel smiled gently. "Love does not always come at the right time or in the form we expect. But I'm sure that we're destined to be together, and I'm going to fight for it."

They hugged each other, feeling the warmth and togetherness between them.

—

Finally, the day of the verdict arrived, Laura and Daniel had to appear in court to hear the verdict from the judge. They feel tense and can't wait to find out the results.

When they arrived at the court, the media was already waiting for them at the door. Cameras and microphones immediately charged at them. Laura and Daniel feel a bit overwhelmed, but they try to stay calm.

"Are you ready for the judge's decision?" ask a reporter.

"We're ready" Laura replied briefly.

"Then how are you feeling right now?" ask the other reporter.

"We are feeling tense, but we hope everything will be fine" Daniel replied.

"Laura, how would you feel if you won the case?" ask a reporter.

"I would be very happy and relieved if the judge's decision was the result I expected" Laura replied.

"In your view, what is the main reason for the demands of your ex-husband's family?" ask the other reporter.

"I think they didn't like me and Daniel was in a relationship. They felt that I did not deserve to be Daniel's life partner, ” Laura replied.

"Then what's your relationship with Daniel now?" ask a reporter again.

"We are very happy together. We love each other and we will continue to maintain our relationship" Laura replied.

"Daniel, what would you say if the judge's decision sided with you?” ask a reporter for Daniel.

"I will feel happy and grateful. This proves that Laura and I do have the right to have the relationship we want" Daniel replied.

"I don't have a problem with them. But I think they should respect the judge's decision later and let us live our own lives" Daniel replied.

They finally made it into the courtroom. Laura and Daniel sit back in the courtroom, awaiting the judge's decision. They held hands, showing support and calmness to each other.

Trial resumed. Both sides presented their final arguments with great enthusiasm.

Laura and Daniel sat tensely in the courtroom, awaiting the judge's verdict. They felt tense because during the trial, it felt that the judge was not completely on their side. There are some statements that seem dubious about their relationship.

The family lawyer of Laura's ex-husband stands up to give his argument. "Honored judges, we argue that the relationship between Laura and Daniel is inappropriate. Laura is Daniel's stepmother who is supposed to respect her ex-husband's family. These relationships violate family values and create tension among their own families.”

Laura and Daniel looked at each other, feeling the injustice. They know that they love each other and have proven their commitment to building a healthy relationship.

Laura's lawyer stood up to give a response. "Honored judge, Laura and Daniel's relationship is based on love and mutual understanding. They both have proven that they can create a stable and happy family environment. No one can judge and regulate who they can or cannot love."

The judge looked serious, taking a close look at the arguments that had been conveyed. "I have listened to the arguments of both sides and considered all the evidence that has been presented during this trial. My decision wasn't easy."

Laura and Daniel held hands with an inescapable tension. They try to remain calm, waiting for a decision that will determine the fate of their relationship.

The judge spoke in a firm voice. "After considering everything, I decided that Laura and Daniel's relationship should be revisited. I will order the authorities to conduct further investigations regarding this relationship before I make a final decision."

Laura and Daniel were shocked to hear the verdict. They feel disappointed and unfair. It feels like they are being tested and doubted.

Laura raised her voice with courage. "Judge, am I not entitled to love and build a family with someone I care about? Is it unfair for us to be judged and examined just because we chose to be together?"

Daniel also continued with emotion. "We have proven our commitment and affection for each other. Why should we be forced to undergo an investigation that casts doubt on our decision to be together?"

The judge continued, "I understand that your relationship is based on love and happiness. However, we must ensure that the decisions we take are based on the best interests of all parties involved.”

Laura held back the tears that were about to fall. "But, Judge, is this investigation really necessary? We have proven our ability in forming stable relationships.”

The judge answered wisely, "I understand the concerns of both of you. However, keep in mind that the courts have an obligation to protect the interests of everyone. This investigation aims to ensure that your relationship does not have a negative impact on other communities.”

Daniel, who throughout this trial had been trying hard, began to express his disappointment. "Judge, I understand that you want to do it for the benefit of the people. I love Laura. We have formed a strong bond and made us happy. I just want us to be given a chance to live together as a family."

Laura wiped her tears and took a deep breath. "Judge, is there any other way we can prove that our relationship is a positive one? We're willing to do whatever it takes to prove our commitment."

The judge nodded seriously, taking a close look at Laura and Daniel's expressions. "I understand that this is a difficult situation for both of you. However, as a judge, my responsibility is to ensure the best interests of all parties involved. This decision was made not to harm both of you but to everyone, so this decision has been unanimous and cannot be contested.”

Hakimpun knocks the hammer stating that the verdict is the final verdict. Hearing the verdict, the media present in the courtroom again stormed them with questions and cameras circling them. But this time, Laura and Daniel could only shut up and try to get out of the courtroom.