CLAIRE
The courthouse hallway was cold and smelled like old wood and floor polish. Detective Rodriguez met us just outside courtroom 4B.
"Ms. Cross, Mr. Cross," she said with a professional nod. "The arraignment should be quick, just the charges being read and bail discussion."
"Will she be here?" I asked, my voice steadier than I felt.
"Yes," Detective Rodriguez confirmed. "She's being brought up from holding now."
My stomach twisted but I kept my face calm. "You can sit in the gallery," she continued. "First row is reserved for you."
"Thank you," Julian said, his hand firm on my lower back.
We walked into the courtroom and I took in the space. Wooden benches, high ceilings, an American flag in the corner, the judge's bench raised above everything else.
Julian guided me to the fro
