In the courtroom, these police officers led us to our seats. I was on the side with the guys and Johnny. behind me was Cherry. On the left were my parents and some other people on Bob's side.

    The judge took his seat and addressed the situation: If Johnny was guilty or innocent.

    "Ms.Sheldon," He said looking at me, "Tell me what happened the night your brother was killed,"

    I stood up, "Well, Ponyboy Curtis, Johnny Cade, and I were walking in the park.." I started to say.

    "At 2 in the morning?" The judge asked.

    "Yes," I simply answered. " Anyway, we were minding our own business, when Bob's blue Mustang came toward us. Bob and 4 other guys came out and attacked. Four were grabbing Ponyboy, including Bob and drowning him in the fountain. Another was holding me back. Then, like any good and loyal friend would do, Johnny stabbed Bob to save his friend," I said.

    The judge was silent. he thought about it and said, "So this was self-defense? He were just defending your friend who was obviously hurting him. Cherry Valance, resent your point of view,"

The rest of the court went along fine. Cherry said it was self defense and went on how he was drunk. The judge asked Ponyboy's opinion too, and it was the same story.

    My parents started arguing, but the judge had already decided.

    "Innocent," he hit the hammer and it was over.

    I ran to Johnny and hugged him. I held him for a long time and I kissed him."It's finally over Johnny!"

    Darry, Sodapop and Ponyboy approached us, "We'd like for you to join us at dinner," Said Darry, "To celebrate!" Finished Ponyboy.

    Johnny and I agreed.

    Then my parents came up to me, "We came here to tell you to pick your things up from our house," My dad said.

    My smile faded, "What? Are..are you guys kicking me out?" I said.

    My parents shuffled uncomfortably, "Family comes first and your dating the greaser who stabbed your own brother! You still forgave him and love him even though he killed your own flesh and blood. That's not right!"my mom pointed to Johnny, " Hood!!"

    My anger rose. I saw Johnny had tears in his eyes. Ponyboy's eyes were wide. Sodapop's mouth hung open. Steve's smile turned into a sneer. Two-bit had a scowl. And Darry just shook his head. Dally just stared.

"You have no right to talk to Johnny like that!! He's the only one who's ever loved me!! Cared about me!! How can you be like that after you've neglected me!" I felt so angry I wanted to hit something, "Fine. I will move out. I-I don't need you!" I felt hot tears running down my cheeks.

    My parents left and I started to cry. Johnny pulled me close and let me cry on his shoulder.

    Ponyboy came close and hugged me too. "It'll be alright, Candy. You're a strong young woman. I'm sure.." his voice trailed off.

    "Just come to our place. We can at least help you by providing you with a roof over your head," Darry said.

    We walked to Ponyboy's house, Johnny holding me close. I said nothing. I was so shocked.

    "It's not fair," I whispered, "I was always a good person. Good grades, awards, scholarships... I don't think I ever did anything wrong. I don't deserve this. I'll kill myself or something," I muttered.

    "Hey," Johnny held my chin up so we looked at each other's eyes, "Don't say that. if you do that, I will too. just keep your head high, and we'll get through this," He kissed me.

    "Johnny," I said, "You're the only good thing in my life right now," I said.