“All the evidence is there, your honor,” Atlas said and I watched as the Judge scanned the documents.

I held my breath and Atlas glanced at me, our eyes locked and he reassured me with a smile.

In a moment, I felt lighter and realized — this was what trust tasted like.

It was holding on, it was waiting, it was hope clad in a three-piece suit and green eyes that softened for only me.

The Judge slammed his gavel and the soft murmurs silenced. He cleared his throat. ...