The next morning brought yet another elder meeting. Jake was getting tired of them, if he was being honest, but he knew they were necessary. It was the only way to navigate through this mess. Today, Christian and Drew would announce which punishment they were choosing. It left a sick feeling in Jake’s gut. Even knowing what his father had done, the depth of his betrayal, the thought of watching the punishment carried out caused more discomfort than Jake expected.
The room was heavy with silence when the door opened and Drew stepped inside, Holly close behind. She was wringing her hands, her eyes darting to Callan, who stiffened and looked away.
Drew cleared his throat. “We’ve come to a decision.”
Alistair gave a nod. “Go on.”
Drew glanced at Holly, then took one of her hands between hi
