The courtroom loomed over me like a fortress, its tall, imposing columns casting long shadows across the pavement. Morning light filtered through the dense clouds, doing little to dispel the tension knotting my stomach. Alex stood beside me, his presence both grounding and suffocating.
"Are you ready?" Lydia asked, her voice sharp yet encouraging as we approached the entrance.
I nodded, clutching the strap of my bag tightly, though my hands trembled. Ready wasn't the word I'd use. Braced, maybe. Prepared to face whatever hell Alex's father had planned.
Alex's hand brushed lightly against my elbow, a gesture of silent support. I stiffened but didn't pull away. Not here, not now, where every moment of unity was being scrutinized.