Austin
I push open the heavy courtroom door, my heart pounding against my ribs. The sound of it slamming shut behind me echoes with a finality that makes my stomach clench. I take a deep breath, willing my nerves to settle. The polished floor gleams under the fluorescent lights, and the click of my heels seems unnaturally loud in the hushed room.
As I approach the bench, I force myself to meet the judge's stern gaze. His weathered face is impassive, giving nothing away. I swallow hard, my throat suddenly dry.
"Your Honor," I begin, grateful that my voice comes out steady despite the butterflies in my stomach. "I'm here today to speak on behalf of two innocent children, Levi and Wrangler."
I pause, gathering my thoughts. The boys' faces flash through my mind - their haunted eyes, the we
