ELENA POV
"Ms. Castellano, I know this is overwhelming," Martina said, seeing the weight settle over me. "But we're going to get through this. One step at a time. Tomorrow, we survive the arraignment. Then we focus on discovery. Then trial prep. One step at a time."
I nodded, trying to steady my breathing.
"Is there anything else I should know?" I asked.
"Yes. When you're in the courtroom tomorrow, don't react to anything the prosecution says. No matter how inflammatory, how false, how hurtful, keep your composure. The judge is watching. The cameras are watching. Don't give them ammunition."
"Even if they lie about me?"
"Especially if they lie about you. You'll have your chance to respond in testimony, in our defense. But tomorrow isn't that day. Tomorrow is just about entering your plea and arguing for bail." He paused. "Can you do that? Stay calm, no matter what they say?"
