LAW SHADOWS

CHAPTER 10

Agnes's POV

"You all know how I work. I was emotional because he was my son, but I don't mix emotions with my duties. I just need the chance to do something for him, one last time," I said, sitting across from the judge assigned to my son's case. "I know it's complicated because the suspect is my brother, but I promise you, I will be fair."

The judge studied me for a moment. "I trust you, Agnes. I'm not worried about how you'll handle the case, but whether you'll be able to hold yourself together during the trial."

His words hit harder than I expected. Will I truly be able to handle this? I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the upcoming trial pressing on my shoulders.

"I'll manage," I replied, though the confidence I projected felt brittle. "My husband and my son will be there, giving me the strength I need. Don't worry about me."

The judge sighed. "Okay then, the case is yours. I trust you."

"Thank you," I said, relief washing over me. This was my last chance to do something for Williams, even though it meant stepping into a courtroom where my brother was the accused.

We exchanged a few more words, but the moment I closed my office door, John walked in, his face tense.

"What are you thinking, Agnes?" His voice was firm, concerned. "You need to rest. You're not in the right mind to take this case."

"I knew you'd say that," I said softly, my gaze meeting his. "But, John, I need to do this. I loved Williams like he was my son. Please, let me do one last thing for him."

John frowned. "And what about your brother? You've always said how much you love him too. This trial will tear you apart."

I reached for his hands, squeezing them gently. "John, I still can't believe he did this. But every clue points to him. I can't turn a blind eye to that, even if he is my brother. I'll punish him if he's guilty. That's what justice demands."

John looked into my eyes for a long moment before pulling me into a warm embrace. "If it becomes too much, remember I'm here for you. You can step back anytime. No pressure."

"I know," I whispered, resting my head on his shoulder. "Thank you."

"Now," he said, pulling back slightly, "how about you work from home? It might be easier on you."

I nodded, not wanting to worry him further. "Alright, I'll come home with you."

Back home, I went to the study to finish some work. I needed to prepare for the case, By the time I emerged from the study, it was already 6 PM.

John was in the living room with Edward, deep in conversation. As I approached, I smiled at the sight of them. "I hope I'm not interrupting your father-son time."

"Not at all, Mom," Ed said, standing up to help me to the couch.

"Ed, I'm fine," I said with a soft laugh. "I'm not as fragile as you think."

"I know," Ed replied, his expression serious. "But I'm still worried."

"I'll be alright," I reassured him. "Mothers always find a way to be strong, don't we?"

Dinner was a lighthearted affair, with both John and Ed doing their best to lift my spirits. We talked, laughed, and reminisced, but in the back of my mind, I couldn't stop thinking about Williams and the upcoming trial. I had to stay strong—for him, for my family.

After dinner, Ed excused himself to his room. John and I spent the rest of the evening watching America's Got Talent—one of my favorite shows—before heading to bed.