Gill let out a slow breath, still rubbing his throat where Garrick's grip had nearly crushed it. His voice came out hoarse, but steady.
"It was insurance. In case I got caught by you and Wincent's plan fell apart."
Selena's eyes narrowed.
"So you want to be declared innocent? You think those documents about other people's crimes will prove your innocence?"
Gill shook his head slowly. He didn't look at her, didn't look at Garrick. He just stared at the cracked floor beneath his feet.
"No. I'm not asking for innocence." His voice was quiet, tired. "I'm just hoping my punishment gets lightened."
He paused, then lifted his head.
"I know sacrificing people is wrong. I know that better than anyone." He swallowed, his throat still raw. "But it was my life on the line too. So I did whatever it took to survive."
Selena noticed the tired curve of his shoulders, the way his fingers still trembled at his throat, the mark on his stomach that he kept trying to hide.
Then she turned away.
