“People Throw Rocks At Things That Shine”

As she pushes through the heavy double doors, the cool night air rushes over her.

EXT. PRISON PARKING LOT – NIGHT

JJ stumbles slightly as she steps outside, her arms instinctively wrapping around herself. Tears spill silently down her cheeks, unchecked. She stops in the middle of the parking lot, taking a shuddering breath.

Across the street, EMILY stands leaning against her car. Her posture is casual—arms crossed, head tilted—but her eyes are anything but.

JJ freezes. Their gazes meet.

After a moment, JJ walks toward her, slow and deliberate. The faint scrape of her shoes on the pavement is the only sound.

As JJ reaches her, they stand facing each other in silence. Emily’s brows knit together, her lips parting slightly, but she says nothing.

JJ’s shoulders slump. Her lip trembles. She drops her head, shaking it slightly.

“I know you didn’t want me to go,” JJ says softly, her voice trembling.

Emily steps closer, her gaze softening but steady.

“I wanted to show him compassion,” JJ says, her voice trembling. “That’s why I went. And it was horrible.” Her voice cracks on the last word, and a sob escapes before she can stop it.

Emily moves instantly, pulling JJ into her arms. JJ collapses against her, her face buried in Emily’s shoulder.

Emily holds her tightly, her own expression is unreadable—focused, protective, maybe something more.

JJ’s body shakes with quiet sobs. She clings to Emily like a lifeline.