The courtroom seemed to shift between long, suspended moments and sharp, choppy breaths as Roma’s challenge landed. Daniel shifted - a minute adjustment that nonetheless sent awareness skating down her spine. His suit jacket caught the light, the fabric pulling across his shoulders as he straightened with rigid control. The carefully maintained space between them pulsed with each heartbeat.

Judge Donahue nodded. “Challenge sustained. Dr. Poznek, thank you for your service, you’re dismissed.”

As Dr. Poznek left the courtroom, Juniper felt the trap close. Roma had baited her with an educated juror, knowing she’d push too hard.

Of course he’d prepared that obscure precedent - probably had it memorized for exactly this moment.

The replacement juror was already moving forward, another soldier in Roma’s carefully assembled army.