Simon’s eyes turned icy, like a biting wind cutting through me. "Then what do you want? Zara, I'll do everything I can to reduce your sentence to three years. How about that?"
So, Scarlett's life couldn't have a stain, but mine could? "This is non-negotiable!" I shouted. Simon laughed mockingly, "Zara, three years in prison and you'll be set for life. Aren’t you tired of being poor?" I stayed silent, trying to think of a way out of this nightmare. Then, Simon leaned close to my ear and whispered, "Zara, do you really think it’s your choice whether you agree or not?"
The threat in his voice was unmistakable. I knew Simon's family had power, enough to make my life a living hell if I refused.
My thoughts raced as I looked around the room. Scarlett's parents were watching me intently, their expressions a mix of desperation and determination.
Scarlett herself was still on the floor, sobbing uncontrollably, a pitiful sight that would have moved me if I didn’t know the extent of her manipulations.