HAZEL
I walked forward slowly. Let my steps be small and hesitant. Like I was afraid. Like being in this room with Milo terrified me.
"Of course," I said softly.
"Please." Elder Moira gestured to an empty chair. "Sit. This must be difficult for you."
I sat. Folded my hands in my lap exactly like my mother. Kept my eyes down.
"We have heard accounts from multiple witnesses," Elder Cormac continued. "They say they found you in Sentinel Milo's quarters. Half dressed. Covered in..." He paused delicately. "Evidence of assault. Is this true?"
"Yes," I whispered.
"And you were there against your will?"
I looked up. Let tears gather in my eyes. "I don't want to talk about this."
"You must, child." Elder Moira's voice was gentle. "We need to understand what happened."
I took a shuddering breath. "He invited me to talk. He said he needed to discuss. I thought it would be safe. He's a sentinel. I trusted him. I also wanted to thank him for saving me and protecting me from Fia."
