The sterile light of the visiting room cast a pale glow, illuminating the two unfamiliar faces seated across the table. Maria's heart sank, the hope she'd clung to dissipating like mist. She had envisioned Ethan's face, perhaps aged by sorrow, but still familiar. Instead, two strangers awaited her.
Tears welled up as she closed her eyes, allowing the disappointment to wash over her. Of course, he didn't come. Why would he? She was a ghost from a past he'd likely buried.
"Mrs. Williams Lewis, if you will let me, I would like to represent you free of charge," Rafael said, his voice gentle yet firm.
Maria shook her head, tears streaming down her cheeks. "I don't want a lawyer," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "Thank you."
As she turned to leave, the other man extended a business card. "Please wait," he implored. "I was personally sent from Salvador to represent you, Mrs. Williams Lewis."
