Chapter 17: Divorce Trial
As two weeks passed, Charlotte finally had to attend the hearing. She hadn’t expected Damon to come with her because of his busy schedule, but he decided to drop all his workload for one day to accompany her.
"You really don’t have to do this." Charlotte lowered her head and looked at her shoes on the ground. "Mr. Hale and his team will accompany me into the courtroom."
"They’re your legal team, while I’m your mate. We’re not the same," Damon replied firmly, his tone leaving no room for argument.
Charlotte felt a warmth creep up her cheeks. His words were simple, but they were enough to let her know that someone cared about her and would be sitting behind her in the courtroom the whole time.
As they approached the courthouse steps, Damon gently placed a hand on her back, guiding her forward. "Listen, Charlotte," he began, his voice softer now, "I know it will be hard for you to face your abuser again, but I need you to stay calm in the courtroom."
"Don’t let your emotions control you, so he has no chance to manipulate you." Damon turned her around to face him. "But if he does, remember that you’re not alone. He can’t hurt you as long as I’m with you."
She wasn’t alone.
Her mate was protecting her, so whatever happened, Julian would never be able to touch her again.
She looked up at him, her blue eyes meeting his gray ones. "Thank you," she said softly. "For giving me a second chance."