“Your Honor, my client was entirely unaware of any such actions,” Vance stammered, his confident demeanor suddenly vanishing.

“I find that highly difficult to believe, Mr. Vance,” Judge Miller said.

The judge tapped her pen against the wooden desk, a sharp, rhythmic sound.

“This court does not tolerate the manipulation of state agencies for personal vendettas.”

I felt a tear slip down my cheek, but I didn’t wipe it away.

For the first time in months, the weight on my chest felt slightly lighter.

Nathan leaned closer to me, his breath warm against my ear.

“We’re winning, Emily,” he murmured.

I nodded, my eyes blurry as I looked at him.

His blue eyes were fierce, filled with a quiet intensity that made me feel entirely safe.

But then, Nathan’s pocket began to buzz.

He reached down and pulled out his phone, his brow furrowing as he looked at the screen.

He unlocked the phone and read a message.

I watched his face go completely pale.

The muscles in his jaw tightened, and he stood up slightly from his chair.

“Sarah,” Nathan whispered, his voice sharp and urgent.