"No, Valerie, that's not – "
But before Harry could finish, the judge's face turned crimson with fury.
"Shut up and sit down, young man!" he thundered, slamming his gavel. The sharp crack echoed through the courtroom, silencing the room. The air vibrated with tension.
"One more word and you'll be sentenced for disrupting justice and abetting a criminal!" the judge bellowed.
Harry's eyes widened, his face paling. He sank into his seat, silenced.
The courtroom fell silent, the only sound was the heavy breathing of the judge. His chest heaved, nostrils flaring. "I will not tolerate disrespect in my court!"
Harry's voice was laced with remorse. "I–I'm sorry, My Lord." He bowed his head, his eyes cast downward in submission.
The judge's expression softened slightly, acknowledging the apology.
Seeing this, Harry's gaze drifted to Witt, a silent plea in his eyes, as if to say, "I've done my best."
