They'd see me as a threat or not at all. That was the rule. Especially today.
I had Axel at my side, the last two witnesses alive behind me, and three weeks' worth of exhaustion curled behind my ribs like a second spine. This was it—the final hearing. The last swing of the gavel. And if the Goddess had a shred of mercy left in her, the day this house of rot began to crumble.
Carmen stood near the chamber doors, arms folded, jaw tight. She caught my gaze and gave a small nod. Lila stood farther down, near the shadows, her hand resting on Fernando's shoulder. Silvia stood beside him, her face pale but her chin was lifted.
The witnesses were here. That alone was a miracle.
"María José Montenegro," came Councilman Esteban's voice.
It was loud and sharp,, and already filled with disdain. "This is your final opportunity to plead your case. Keep it concise."
He always spoke like we were inconveniencing him by existing.
