The judge, a stern-faced man wearing glasses, known for his ruthlessness in the courtroom, rapped his gavel, calling the proceedings to order. Jared finally looked up, his gaze meeting Jerica's with a flicker of something—a silent plea, perhaps? Or was it fear?
For a heartbeat, Jerica hesitated, the weight of the moment crashing down on her. Had she somehow walked into the midst of Jared's secrets, ones he had tried so hard to shield her from?
As the trial began, Jerica pieced together fragments of the case. It was evident that powerful forces had moved against Jared, and she couldn't help but recall Harold's ominous words. "Be prepared." Now she realized just how right he'd been.
