YELENA

“Yes. I won’t let him walk free from this."

Tristan’s voice was calm, but the weight behind it filled the room. It wasn’t loud, yet everyone heard the promise in it. Even my dad nodded slowly, like he believed every word.

They guided me toward the chair.

“Good morning, Mr. and Mrs. Crossword,” I said, forcing a small smile as I greeted Tristan’s parents.

His mother smiled back warmly. His father lifted his hand in a friendly wave.

“How was your night?” he ...