Day Four of Trial - Morning
I barely slept. Every time I closed my eyes, I imagined Morrison's questions. Every possible attack, every way she could twist my words.
"You need to eat," Margaret said at breakfast, pushing a plate toward me.
"I can't. My stomach—"
"Eat anyway. You'll need your strength." Her voice was firm, motherly. "Morrison will try to break you. Don't let her see you weak."
"I'm terrified."
"Good. That means you understand what's at stake." She squeezed my hand. "But Mia—you've faced assassins. You've survived things that would destroy most people. One prosecutor isn't going to break you."
I wanted to believe her.
The Courtroom - 9 AM
The jury filed in, studying me with renewed interest. I was no longer just the defendant. I was a person who'd testified, who'd shown vulnerability.
Would that help or hurt?
Judge Reeves settled into her seat. "Ms. Hartley, you're still under oath. Ms. Morrison, you may proceed with cross-examination."
