Time did what it always did. It moved on, quietly, and faster without asking anyone for permission.

The months that followed the new year passed gently, like pages turning on their own. There were no explosions, no courtroom theatrics that Thalia needed to witness firsthand. Justice unfolded in its own cold, methodical way—documents signed, verdicts reached, sentences were passed.

Eliana Smith was given a life sentence.

When the news came, Thalia didn’t cry. She didn’t smile ...