| TWO MONTHS LATER |

The courthouse had never felt so suffocating.

Reporters crowded the entrance from the early hours of the morning, their cameras flashing relentlessly as police officers struggled to maintain order. News vans lined the streets while journalists fought to secure the best angle.

Inside, however, was quiet. Blake sat rigidly in his seat, his expensive suit unable to conceal the exhaustion etched into his features. The once-commanding businessman looked years older, his hair streaked with more gray than anyone remembered.

A few seats away sat Tyler.

For the first time in his life, there was no arrogance in his eyes, no confidence, no resentment. Only emptiness....