Chapter 178

The courtroom sat hushed as Judge Hamilton entered. The wooden benches creaked with the movement of those rising to their feet. Beatrix felt Gideon's hand tighten around hers as they stood. The past eight weeks of trial had led to this moment.

"Be seated," the judge commanded, her voice filling the high-ceilinged room.

Beatrix lowered herself to the bench, her back straight, her face c