Walk of Shame

The reporters were already waiting when Zara walked out of the courthouse. Cameras clicked. People shouted questions. Bright lights flashed in her face.

Zara didn't answer. Her mind was blank. Even with her eyes wide open, she could barely register anything around her. She kept her head down and walked.

Nathaniel was stunned. He knew Clement had stirred up the media to twist the trial into a spectacle, but he hadn't expected the press to ambush Zara right outside the courtroom. Once again, he hadn't been prepared for it.

"Ms. Quinn, how do you feel about losing custody today?" one reporter called.

"Is it true your children no longer feel safe in your care?" another shouted.

A man bumped into her shoulder. Someone else stepped on her foot. A microphone was shoved inches from her mouth. She stumbled slightly. But she didn't flinch. Didn't frown. She just kept walking, guided like a ghost by Nadia.