#Chapter 35: The Missing Pieces

It was my first experience in a court room. It wasn’t like the comedic setting of reality tv where civil cases are handled with small laughs and some parties willing to cut their losses. My reality was a small, boxed-in room with far less seating. The judge had yet to arrive at their bench, but Jasper and Mr. Fitzgerald were already at the prosecution desk, having a heated discussion. The jury gallery had a few lost-looking souls in it, probably wishing they were at home rather than dealing with a heavy dispute. There was fortunately no public gallery present, so any misstep of mine could be reserved for the confidentiality of the court. If this didn’t go our way, we needed as much privacy as possible. Timothy followed me to the defense table and took the seat beside me. I kept my eyes averted from Jasper and Mr. Fitzgerald, who didn’t hesitate to glare in our direction. Fortunately, the judge entered from her chambers. “Please rise. The Court is now in session, the Honorable J