The Senate hearing room smelled of polished wood and nervous anticipation. Nova Jin stood at the witness table, Leo cradled in a soft carrier strapped to her hip. Behind her, the newly constituted Phoenix Institute emblem glowed on the projection screen. Dozens of senators, aides, and journalists sat in rows, waiting for her testimony on the bioethics reforms sparked by the Catalyst scandal.
Senator Marquez, chair of the Health and Human Services Committee, tapped his gavel. “Madam Jin, you may proceed."
Nova inhaled, smoothing her tailored blazer. Leo stirred, nuzzling closer, and she offered him a gentle smile. “Thank you, Senator. Distinguished members of the committee: five years ago, I signed a contract that nearly cost me my life. Today, I stand before you—as Aurora Jin is legally
