Gemotions

The panel was made up of stern faces and crisp suits, and their questions were cutting. Maya kept her gaze fixed on the mahogany table, refusing to give them the satisfaction of seeing her falter. The room felt cold, the air thick with judgment.

“Can you explain these identical passages?” the lead judge asked, his voice smooth and precise.

Maya took a slow, deliberate breath, the air barely filling her lungs. Her fingers curled into her palms. She wouldn’t offer an explanation. Not a real one. Let them assume, let them speculate. She had nothing to hide, but the truth was for her alone.