240
~Bella's POV
The moment the judge picked up his gavel, I felt my chest squeeze so tight it was hard to breathe.
"We'll take a recess and review all submitted evidence and testimony," he said firmly. "The court will reconvene in two hours."
And just like that, the courtroom stirred. Whispers, shuffling feet, the sound of chairs being pushed back. I didn't hear any of it clearly. My eyes were on Noah.
He hadn't moved much. He just stood there in those oversized prison clothes, like a grown man still stuck in the shadow of the scared boy he once was. His hands were cuffed, but his eyes found me, and I didn't hesitate.
I pushed past the little barrier and went to him.
The guards didn't even flinch this time. I think they understood.
I threw my arms around him. "You did so well," I whispered, holding on tightly. "I'm proud of you."
He leaned his head down toward mine, his voice low and rough. "Do you think it's enough?"
"It has to be," I murmured. "It just has to be."
