LAW SHADOWS

CHAPTER 5

Edward's POV

Today was William's funeral. They had finished the autopsy and finally gave us back his body. We were still waiting for the official results, but they assured us they'd be ready in five days. The pain of saying goodbye to my brother was unbearable. He wasn't just my brother—he was my best friend. I swore to myself that I would bring his murderer to justice, no matter the cost.

Mom was inconsolable. She hadn't stopped crying since we found out about William's death. Last night, she fell ill and needed an IV drip. Dad stayed by her side, trying to be strong, though I could see his pain. We weren't a particularly close family, but William always tried his best to bridge the gap. He was the one who would make an effort to bring laughter to family gatherings, always trying to make things easier between Mom and Dad.

Amelia had been close to William too. I could tell she was holding it together, but her red, puffy eyes betrayed her. She was hurting just as much as I was.

"Hey, I'm sorry I wasn't with you yesterday. I thought you might need some space," Amelia said softly as she approached me.

"Hey... come here." I pulled her into a hug. We both needed the comfort. "Thank you for being here, Ammy. I know you'd never do anything to hurt me—you've always had my back."

"Of course, Ed. You don't have to thank me."

Amelia stayed by my side throughout the funeral. Her presence was grounding.

"Amelia," I said as the service ended, "I've requested the trial to start the day after tomorrow. I can't wait any longer."

"I understand. Just... try to stay calm, okay?" she said gently.

"I will. I promise." I sighed. "I know you don't want to leave, but you should rest. We have some long days ahead."

"But—"

"No buts, Ammy. Go get some rest. I'll see you tomorrow."

"Alright, Ed. See you tomorrow." She kissed me on the cheek, then left. I watched her until she disappeared from view.

Amelia's POV

I wanted to tell Edward about my decision to take his uncle's case, but the timing wasn't right. He wasn't ready to hear it yet. As I walked toward my car, I noticed Dan standing outside, waiting.

"Dan! You didn't leave?" I asked.

"I don't want to question your decision, but... is it worth it?" His voice was cautious, but I knew what he was really asking.

He was referring to the case I'd just taken up. I couldn't blame him for being concerned.

"Dan, you know how I work. When something feels off, I dig until I find the truth. This case is no different."

"What if this time you're wrong, Amelia?" he asked quietly.

He had a point, but I couldn't afford to doubt myself now. If I started second-guessing, I'd lose focus.

"Dan, we only have tomorrow to prepare for the trial. We'll work overtime," I said, avoiding his question. I headed for my car, but his words stopped me.

"Does Edward know?" he asked.

"Know what?"

"That you took his uncle's case?" he pressed.

"I'll tell him tomorrow," I replied before getting into the car.

"You can run for now, Ammy. But you've got all night to think about it," Dan called after me as I drove away. My head was buzzing with everything I had to deal with. I needed to clear my mind and prepare for the trial, but all I could think about was how Edward would react when he found out. Should I call him now? No. I'd wait until morning. I couldn't risk him hearing it from someone else.