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It was a very tense moment in the courtroom. The jury had finished deliberating and the verdict was about to be read. The defendant, a young man named Robert, had been accused of a terrible crime. He had maintained his innocence throughout the trial, but the jury had been presented with a lot of evidence that seemed to point to his guilt.

Holly, one of the jurors, was not convinced. She had listened to the evidence and heard the witness testimony, but something didn't quite add up. She couldn't shake the feeling that Robert was innocent.

When the jury foreman asked for a vote, Robert's fate seemed sealed. The jury voted in unison: 'Aye.' All except Holly. She said 'Nay.'

The judge was surprised, and the prosecutor was outraged. He demanded an explanation, but Holly could only say that she had reasonable doubt. The judge was forced to declare a mistrial, and the jury was sequestered until they could reach a unanimous verdict.

The jury was locked in a room, with no contact with the outside world. They were given food and drinks, but they were also given the task of deciding Robert's fate.

It was a long, tedious process. Everyone argued back and forth, citing evidence and making their case. Holly remained adamant that Robert was innocent, but no one else seemed to agree. Finally, late into the night, Holly managed to sway the jury. They voted not guilty, and Robert was set free.

Holly had done the right thing. Her reasonable doubt had saved an innocent man. It was a small victory, but it was enough to give her hope that justice could prevail in the end.

Holly's Days: Staving Short Stories, Featuring Holly.Where stories live. Discover now