章節 33: chapter 33

In the Courtroom

Bella's POV

The morning air felt heavier than usual. I paced back and forth in my room, my fingers twitching with nervous energy. Today was my brother's trial. The thought of sitting back and doing nothing was unbearable, no matter what Sam had told me about the terms of our contract. I had to see him—I had to know he was okay.  

But how? Sam had made it abundantly clear that I wasn't allowed to involve myself in my brother's affairs. His words echoed in my mind, stern and unyielding: *"You signed the contract, Bella. You stay away from him, no exceptions."*  

I clenched my fists, the frustration bubbling to the surface. He could control many things, but he couldn't stop me from caring about my family.  

Taking a deep breath, I pushed open the door to find Jacob standing by the hallway, as always, ready to shadow my every move.  

"I want to go out," I said, keeping my tone as casual as possible.