Hughes stood silent, his earlier hostility replaced with remorse. The gravity of his actions that morning weighed heavily upon him, evident in the way he shifted uncomfortably from foot to foot.

“You owe an apology to the people you serve, including myself, for your behavior,” Lorraine stated, her tone softening just enough to leave space for accountability and growth.

“I…I’m sorry, Your Honor,” Hughes stammered, his voice barely above a whisper. “I didn’t realize who you were—”

Lorraine raised an eyebrow, cutting him off. “Who I am is irrelevant. How I, or anyone else, should be treated is what matters. Remember, your badge doesn’t shield you from the responsibility of treating every individual with dignity.”