When the proceedings ended, Judge Bennett thanked everyone for their time and closed the session. One by one, people filed out of the courtroom until only she and Hughes remained.
He stood there for a moment, struggling to find the courage to speak. “Your Honor,” he said finally, his voice quiet. “I owe you an apology.”
Lorraine looked up from her documents. Her expression was unreadable. “An apology for what, Officer Hughes?”
His mouth felt dry. “For what happened this morning. At the café. My behavior was disrespectful and inexcusable.”
She placed her pen down and regarded him steadily. “A police badge represents duty and respect,” she said. “It should remind you to treat people with dignity, not give you permission to forget it.”
Hughes lowered his eyes. The shame was too heavy to carry. “I am truly sorry,” he whispered.
Judge Bennett gave a small nod. Her tone did not soften, but there was a quiet mercy in her words. “Apology noted. I hope you mean it. Now go and do better.”