Councilman Matthias nods and I have to swallow a scoff. Other people have fathers who show up to protect them. Mine is standing here, trying to strip my freedom and call it justice.
“And Layla Foster? Do you have a request?”
“Yes, Councilman.” I rise as well. “When I am found innocent of these allegations, I request that all four of them write apology letters. Each letter will carry a pledge to stay away from me, to never cross my path, and to never attempt to harm me again. The letters will be signed with their own blood and if broken, they will be punished according to the law. The maximum punishment.”
Silence falls across the room. And for some reason, Councilman Matthias is staring at me like I’ve grown a second head. Then slowly, the surprise smooths off his face and he nods, gest
