CHARLOTTE

“I’m sorry for bringing you all the way here, Ms. Higgins,” I said as she walked to the seat. Sonia walked away to address the guards who had just arrived, and we had a moment to talk alone.

“Oh, it’s nothing. I understand how sensitive this case is,” she replied and sat down. “I hope you’re feeling a lot better?”

“I am,” I answered, exhaling slowly. “I’ve been doing other things to keep my mind from dwelling on it too much,” I added, and she smiled.

I turned my gaze to the park and watched people as they walked past, speaking in hushed tones. The kids in the playground...