Melissa was immersed in piles of legal documents, trying to find a loophole to save her mother. The clock was ticking, the last appeal was her only chance.

Mr. Carter, her mentor, advised her to stay objective. 'You need to detach yourself, Melissa. This is not just about your mother, it's about justice.', he said.

Melissa visited her mother, her heart ached at the sight. Despite the circumstances, her mother managed to smile. 'I believe in you, my dear.', she said.

Melissa held her mother's hands tightly. 'I won't let anything happen to you, mom. I promise.', she assured her, her eyes welling up with tears.

Melissa and Mr. Carter prepared their case. The tension was palpable. Melissa looked at the jury, her mother's life was in their hands.

Melissa's mother was ushered into the room. Melissa felt a lump in her throat as she saw her mother, looking frail and scared.

Melissa presented her case, her voice echoed through the courtroom. She pleaded with the jury, 'My mother is innocent. She deserves justice, not the death penalty.'

Melissa's mother watched her daughter, her eyes filled with pride and love. Even in the face of death, she was more worried about Melissa.

The jury left to deliberate. Mr. Carter put his arm around Melissa, 'You did your best.', he said. Melissa nodded, hoping against hope.

The jury returned. Their faces were unreadable. Melissa held her breath as the foreman stood to read the verdict.

The foreman read, 'We, the jury, find the defendant not guilty.' A wave of relief washed over Melissa. She had done it. She saved her mother.

Melissa's mother was released. She hugged Melissa tightly, tears streaming down their faces. They had won the battle, but the war was far from over.