La Suka—Police investigations are pretty cool. This next part is pretty cool too.

Chapter 20

A few days passed before anyone heard anything. Finally, Mayor Meanswell came home one day to report that Robbie had been picked up just outside of FunTown and that he would stand trial for his crimes. There was a mixed reaction from everyone. Stephanie was worried about possibly having to testify. Sportacus told her not to worry and that they would conquer that when and if it ever happened.

Robbie's public defender thought it best to avoid trial and just plead guilty to a lesser charge. The LazyTown District Attorney had filed two charges against Robbie one for kidnapping and one for attempted murder. The attempted murder charge could put Robbie in prison for up to five years. Since Robbie had been charged with assault a few years back, his chances of getting less than five years were slim. The District Attorney accepted the guilty plea and they went before a judge for sentencing.

"Mr. Rotten, I see that this is not your first time in front of the court. You have been charged with kidnapping and attempted murder. Do you understand that pleading guilty will allow me to sentence you for up to five years in prison?" The judge questioned him. Robbie told him he understood and the judge continued.

"It is my understanding that you and the District Attorney have reached an agreement to drop the kidnapping charge if you agree to serve 300 hours of community service after you are released from prison on the other charge. Is that correct?" Robbie said that that was correct.

"Then I hereby sentence you to a term of five years to be served at a prison chosen by the LazyTown Department of Corrections." With that the judge banged his gavel and the bailiff escorted Robbie away.

Sportacus heard the news from Mayor Meanswell later that day. He was glad that it was all over.

"I think you should be the one to tell Stephanie what happened. She would probably feel better if you told her." Milford said.

"Thank you Mayor, I will. There is something that has been left out and I feel that you have a right to know. Stephanie has been avoiding you and Bessie a lot lately because of something she has done. I hope you will understand and not get that upset with her." Sportacus told the Mayor. He then proceeded to tell Milford all about the punching incident. Sportacus was unsure how the Mayor would react.

"So that's why she's been hiding her hands up her sleeves lately." Shaking his head, Milford faced Sportacus.

"I'm sorry that she hurt herself. I just am surprised by her reaction, I guess. I never expected Stephanie to be the one throwing punches."

"In Stephanie's defense, she was very angry with Robbie. I know its no excuse for physical violence but she was just a jumble of emotions. First she sees me make my little speech, and then she hears my airship explode. To be thinking that I wasn't going to be with her anymore or that no one would save her made Stephanie very hurt, angry, and confused." Sportacus told him.

"Well I'm not going to read her the riot act. In fact I'll probably drop the whole thing. I'm just glad to see your alive and that she is safe." Mayor Meanswell smiled.

Later that night, Stephanie was sitting on her bed staring out the window. All of a sudden Sportacus popped his head into her window.

"Sportacus what are you doing outside on the trellis? My door is working just fine." Stephanie said laughing. He didn't say anything as he carefully wedged himself inside the window. Once inside he said,

"I thought it would be fun to surprise you. Besides I have some very important news to tell you."

Sportacus pulled her close and they kissed. Then sitting down on the bed, Sportacus motioned for her to sit on his lap. She did and asked him what was going on. He told her about Robbie and that she didn't have to worry about her Uncle. At this she wrapped her arms around his neck and pressed her lips to his. After they kissed, Sportacus said,

"You know there's nothing wrong with being in love."

"You heard that?" She asked, her eyes widening.

"Yes, I did. I know that since I'm an above average hero that our relationship will be full of danger. But I love you and I could bear to think of life without you. I hope that it doesn't scare you. Stephanie I would give up my hero title for you if that is what you want. I want you to be safe." Sportacus gushed to her.

To Be Continued…