Elena’s POV
The courtroom felt smaller than I remembered. My firm was representing the plaintiffs, former employees claiming unfair practices. I had prepared for weeks, buried myself in the details to avoid thinking about the name on the file.
I sat at the plaintiff’s table. Sofia had offered to come but I told her I could handle it. I needed to face this alone. The judge entered, the defense team filed in and then I saw him. Damien. He was at the defense table, looking directly at me. His eyes met mine. Everything came rushing back. I looked away, focusing on my notes. My hands were shaking slightly, I gripped the pen tighter.
The hearing began. The defense presented evidence. Damien stood to speak. His voice was steady but I heard the emotion underneath.
“Your Honor, the evidence sho
