Leonard’s lawyer tried once more. “This is circumstantial at best, Your Honor. We can’t rely on the actions of a dog—”

“Enough,” the judge interrupted. “It seems to me that Moose’s response is more than coincidental. This court recognizes the bond between a service animal and their handler, especially in cases involving trauma.”

I felt a surge of hope. Isla’s story was resonating in the courtroom, and not even Leonard’s manipulations could overshadow the truth she was finally revealing.

Judge Dawson turned her attention back to Isla. “Is there anything else you’d like to tell us, sweetheart?”