I wake up with the alarm, with a sinking feeling of dread in my chest. I go through my morning routine stressed out. I just want to get this day over and done with.

Today I testify in court. I’ve been summoned to give an expert testimony, a psych evaluation.

The defendant has made an insanity plea but my findings contradict that claim.

My mouth is so dry, I fear I won’t be able to annunciate my statement. But I calmly take the stand and focus on the lawyer’s questions. I breathe evenly and deeply, forcing myself to say only the facts.

When I state the conclusion that I arrived at, there is silence in the courtroom. I am afraid to look at the defendant; I can feel her glare at me.

“No further questions.”

I step down, shaking.