The courthouse looms in front of us, its gray stone facade stark against the pale morning sky. The rain from last night has left the steps slick, glistening under the faint light. My stomach twists as I stare at the heavy double doors. Everything feels too fast, too final.
Beside me, Alexander stands as steady as ever, hands in the pockets of his black overcoat. He doesn't say anything at first, just glances at me, his sharp features unreadable. I think I see something in his eyes—a flicker of something softer—but it's gone before I can be sure.
"We should go inside," he says finally, his voice calm and certain.
I nod, but my feet stay planted on the damp stone steps. The courthouse feels like it's pressing down on me, the weight of this decision settling heavily on my chest. My hands are cold despite the coat I clutch tightly around myself.
