186: Jackson's trial - Part 2

The morning of the trial was heavy with tension as Anabella arrived at the courthouse. She clutched her coat tightly around her, the chill of the day biting at her skin, but it was nothing compared to the nervous energy churning inside her. Noah and Clair flanked her, their presence a steadying force, and she was grateful for their support.

As she made her way up the courthouse steps, her eyes landed on a familiar figure standing near the entrance. Her step-mother, Helena, was waiting for her, a sharp scowl etched across her face. Anabella hesitated, considering walking straight past her, but Helena spotted her immediately and stepped into her path.

"Anabella," Helena said, her voice dripping with condescension. "You're late. I was beginning to think you'd lost your sense of duty altogether."

Anabella frowned. "I don't have any duty to you, Helena. Or to Jackson."