Chapter 173

The courthouse steps swarmed with reporters, their cameras flashing like lightning bugs on a summer night. Beatrix gripped Gideon's hand as they navigated the crowd, eyes forward, faces blank masks against the shouted questions.

"Ms. Mercer, how does it feel to face your sister today?"

"Beatrix! Will you ask for the death penalty?"

"Are you worried about Cecelia's mental state?"

Gideon