Serena stood frozen in the hallway, her thoughts whirling, her body heavy as a stone. Killian's words echoed in her mind, calling for proof of innocence on behalf of her friend. The weight of the moment pressed down on her chest until she couldn't breathe. Each pair of eyes in the room was upon her, regarding, questioning, judging. Her partner stayed on his knees, wrists bound tightly, shrieking hoarsely that he was innocent. His voice cracked, but the desperation never faltered.
Serena's heart ached. She would not have his screams silenced. She would not have him sentenced by Killian's orders. And so, her mouth opened, and with a voice that trembled but had power behind it, she spoke words.
"I can reveal the past to you," she drew.
The entire hall held its collective breath. Whispers b
