The sconces hummed overhead, casting harsh shadows across their faces as the moment stretched between them. Behind her, she could hear Sophia’s sharp intake of breath, could feel the weight of Daniel’s unspoken words. But she kept her eyes forward, her jaw set. Some battles weren’t meant to be fought together.

She walked away before he could respond, her steps quick and purposeful. Behind her, she could hear Sophia’s soft attempt to console Daniel, but she didn’t look back. The holiday decorations in the courthouse lobby seemed to mock her as she passed, their cheerful glow at odds with the darkness spreading through her chest.

Outside, the winter air bit at her cheeks, but she welcomed the sting. It was better than feeling nothing at all. The city stretched before her, its usual vibrancy dulled by the weight of defeat. She had trusted them - trusted him - and that trust had cost her dearly. Professional boundaries existed for a reason, and she wouldn’t make the same mistake twice.

The sun was setting as she walked home, casting long shadows that seemed to reach for her like grasping fingers. Tomorrow would bring new challenges, new battles to fight. But for now, she allowed herself to feel the full weight of the day’s losses - both professional and personal.

Some distances, once created, couldn’t be bridged. Some trust, once broken, couldn’t be rebuilt. As the city lights began to flicker on around her, Juniper squared her shoulders and kept walking. After all, Juniper already knew that everyone is where they belong.