Zayn was still seated in the tense silence, his mind far away until he felt a hand settle gently on his arm. It pulled him back to the present. He looked down to see his grandfather’s weathered hand, then met the old man’s steady gaze.

"What is on your mind, boy?" his grandfather asked quietly. "You have been called here to explain yourself. Everyone is waiting to hear your side of the story. You cannot remain silent forever."

Zayn gave a slow, acknowledging nod. His grandfather was ...