Chapter 10: The Eve of the Hearing
The night before her parole hearing, sleep wouldn't come to Maya. She sat on her cot, staring at the small birthday card resting against her shelf. Her hands trembled slightly as she ironed her civilian clothes—a simple navy suit provided for court appearances—using her hands to press out every wrinkle.
Elena called out gently from the neighboring cell. ""You ready for tomorrow, Maya?""
""I’m terrified,"" Maya admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. ""What if they only see my mistake? What if they don't see who I’ve become?""
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""They’ll see it,"" Elena said with firm conviction. ""You didn't just survive in here, Maya. You brought light into a dark house. A mother fighting for her child is the strongest force on earth. Remember that when you walk into that room.""
Maya closed her eyes, taking a long, deep breath. She reached up and touched the smooth surface of the handmade card, drawing strength from every crayon stroke.
