“We can fix this,” Daniel said softly, his usual confidence replaced by genuine remorse.

“Fix this?” Juniper laughed, the sound sharp and brittle. “Trust is earned through communication, Daniel. Through consistency.

Through being there when needed, not disappearing with calls and sudden exits. And certainly not through unilateral decisions that affect our entire case!”

Sophia’s hand covered her mouth. Daniel stood frozen, his face draining of color as the full implications of their actions sank in.