Zina's POV
The courtroom felt like it was closing in around me. Every breath I took was shallow, my chest tight as the judge flipped through his papers one final time. Asher sat beside me, his small hand wrapped in mine, his grip trembling despite the brave face he tried to put on.
I squeezed his fingers and leaned down to whisper, "No matter what happens, I've got you."
He nodded, but I could tell he was scared. I was too.
Xaden sat across the room, arms crossed and jaw clenched so tight that I thought his teeth might crack. His eyes were sharp, burning into me like he was trying to set me on fire with just his glare. He hadn't said a word since the recess, but the tension radiating off him was palpable.
I didn't dare look at him. I had to stay strong for Asher.
The judge finally cleared his throat, and the room stilled.
