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STUNNED AND MOMENTARILY disoriented, Nettie instinctively reached down to grasp the edge of the heavy wooden desk for stability. A whirlwind of emotions surged through her as her mind reeled. Had he genuinely just asked her out after she had explicitly told him this meeting was wholly inappropriate? After taking a deep, steadying breath to collect her scattered thoughts—because a small, rebellious part of her was tempted to accept his invitation—she firmly met his gaze. She decisively stated, “No, Mr. McNabb. Now, please leave.”

“We will discuss this further, Nettie. Don’t think for a moment that I’m giving up on this matter.” With that resolve evident in his voice, he turned on his heel and strode out of her office, casting a quick nod at the deputies stationed at her door to ensure her security.

Nettie plopped heavily in her chair, feeling the world’s weight on her shoulders. The meeting had spiraled out of control, crossing lines of ethical conduct that she thought were firmly in place. With a heavy heart, she could only hope that Casper would abandon his claims related to his brother’s case and allow the attorney to handle it from there. Unless…. A sudden realization struck her like a bolt of lightning. She shot up from her desk, her heart racing. “He’s trying to get me removed from the case and have the entire case thrown out of court, all under the guise of unethical behavior!” She couldn’t believe his audacity. Son of a gun!

Determined not to let anything deter her from her goals, Nettie firmly resolved that she would not allow such obstacles to hinder her progress. As Joann reemerged at her office door, the lingering tension from her earlier encounter faded, replaced by a focused clarity.

“I’m coming,” she called out, her tone firm yet brisk. With swift motions, she gathered her files—piling them into her briefcase, careful not to drop any crucial documents. In the flurry of her movements, she hurried out the door, following closely behind her paralegal, who was already navigating toward the bustling office.

As they exited, Nettie took a moment to speak with the deputies who had been assigned as her escort. “Max, please don’t allow Mr. McNabb into my office anytime,” she instructed with an air of authority and professionalism.

The deputy nodded in acknowledgment. “Sure thing, Miss Broussard. Are we headed to court now?” Max inquired.

Nettie, momentarily forgetting the two would escort her to court, said, “Yes. Come on,” she replied, her focus shifting entirely to the day ahead. She felt the weight of the files in her briefcase and the responsibility of the cases awaiting her.

As she approached the entrance of their secondary courtroom—the very space where the tragic shooting had unfolded, now an area still being meticulously processed by law enforcement officials—she came to an abrupt halt. Her heart thundered in her chest, each beat resonating with the weight of the situation, while beads of sweat formed on her palms, betraying the rising tide of anxiety that surged through her. Though she understood it was rather far-fetched to entertain the possibility of another shooting, especially considering the extensive safeguards the sheriff’s department had implemented to ensure the safety and security of all, a persistent thread of fear clung to her like a shadow, whispering unsettling doubts that refused to be silenced.

As Max opened a door further down, the din from the courtroom washed over her, pulling her from her tumultuous thoughts.

“Did you forget something?” he asked, cutting through the heavy silence.

Startled out of her reverie, she shook her head vigorously. “No, Max.” Gathering her resolve, she straightened her spine, a signal of determination, and strode forward, embodying confidence with each purposeful step. She had cases to battle, fights that demanded her unwavering commitment, and justice that awaited her defense. These fleeting notions held no substance or validity, and she understood that allowing them to divert her attention would ultimately hinder her in her quest for the profound and significant sense of justice she was determined to pursue and uphold.

As she navigated her way to the prosecution table, Nettie observed Joann with a keen eye. Joann meticulously organized her extensive files and notes, each document carefully positioned to ensure a smooth presentation. Nettie, the youngest Assistant District Attorney in Biloxi’s history, had been fortunate to have Joann by her side for every court appearance.

In stark contrast, Nettie’s other colleagues were not afforded this luxury. Nettie reflected on this privilege, knowing that initially, it stemmed from the underlying fears of her peers regarding her ability to manage cases independently. Yet, after an impressive streak of never losing a case, Nettie had come to see their partnership as a model that the city should adopt. Together, they formed a formidable team, blending Joann’s experience with Nettie’s fresh perspective, proving that collaboration could yield exceptional results in the often intimidating courtroom arena.

Setting her files methodically on the polished wooden table, Nettie took a moment to scan the bustling courtroom, her keen eyes assessing the familiar surroundings. The air was thick with anxiety, punctuated by the hushed whispers of spectators awaiting the upcoming proceedings. She nodded at the bailiff, a gesture of gratitude for his earlier efforts to maintain order. Although Casper had stepped in to help, Nettie firmly believed that the bailiff, with his seasoned instincts and unwavering determination, could have subdued the shooter independently, without any assistance.

Turning to her left, Nettie watched as tall and solid Max and another deputy took their positions beside her desk, creating a protective barrier. “Is that absolutely necessary?” Nettie asked, a hint of exasperation in her voice. “Can’t you sit behind me or something?”

Max flashed a reassuring grin, his eyes sparkling with determination. “No, ma’am. We need to be close to you. It’s for your safety and our duty.”

Nettie nodded, understanding the gravity of their roles, but she didn’t fully agree with their decision. She preferred her space. However, as she returned her focus to preparing for the first fight of the afternoon, she felt the weight of the responsibilities on her shoulders. The case at hand involved another drunk driver, and the thought gnawed at her, a sharp pain in her heart. When would it ever end? This relentless cycle of recklessness and its devastating consequences seemed unyielding, and she could only hope for a glimmer of change in the future.

As the afternoon progressed, Nettie poured her heart and soul into her pursuit of justice. Each case brought new challenges, and she felt the weight of each decision as she navigated through a series of plea deals that filled the afternoon with intensity and urgency.

Her superior, a seasoned legal veteran, approached her with a proposal that weighed heavily on her mind. While he expressed unwavering confidence in her skills and belief that she could win each case, he was also acutely aware of the office’s fiscal constraints. This dual focus on success and financial responsibility added a layer of complexity to her already challenging role.

Still, she fought fiercely to maintain the integrity of her pleas. She deemed it essential that the terms of the deals remained stringent. In her view, no one should escape the consequences of their actions. Justice was not merely a word for her—it was a commitment, a moral obligation to ensure that every crime was met with appropriate accountability. As she stood before the court, Nettie was resolute, channeling her passion and determination into every argument. She was driven by a profound duty to uphold the law and serve the community she loved.

As the judge pounded the gavel for the last time that day, a wave of relief washed over Nettie. The weight of the courtroom’s tension began to lift. Her shoulders relaxed noticeably, as though a heavy burden had finally been set free.

Turning to Joann, who was already methodically gathering the extensive files they’d used, Nettie said, “I’ll be right back. I need a moment.”

Joann looked up from her work, her expression understanding as she nodded. “Go ahead. I’ll take care of these for us,” she assured warmly, her hands still busy sorting through the papers, but her full attention on her colleague’s need for a brief respite.

Nettie felt reassured, knowing she could depend on her paralegal’s meticulous attention to her files. Each document was organized to her specifications, ready to be seamlessly returned. With a steadying breath, she turned to approach the bailiff, her heart heavy yet filled with gratitude.

“Paul—” Her voice trembled, thick with emotion as she momentarily struggled to articulate the depths of her appreciation.

With a warm smile, he opened his arms wide. “Come here, young’un.”

Despite the looming sense of professionalism, Nettie felt an overwhelming urge to embrace the older man who had become a steadfast figure in her life. She rushed into his embrace, feeling the weight of her struggles melt away in his presence.

“Thank you, Paul,” she whispered. She felt the rush of gratitude that practically overwhelmed her.

He gently released her, allowing her to step back. She sniffled, composing herself.

“It’s what I’m here for,” he said with a kindness that offered solace. His words reaffirmed the bond they had formed through their shared experiences in the often harsh world of law.

She smiled softly, nodded in acknowledgment, and turned away, aware that her simple gestures conveyed a profound gratitude to the law enforcement officer. As she made her way toward her office—her ever-present escort by her side—her boss awaited her arrival.

Kevin King, the esteemed district attorney, had taken a chance on Nettie, a fresh graduate who had recently passed the bar exam without prior experience. Despite her youth at just twenty-one, he placed his unwavering trust in her abilities, and she worked tirelessly each day to prove herself worthy of his faith.

Kevin glanced at her with a knowing smile. “You’ve had some sort of day, haven’t you, prod?” he inquired, gesturing toward her office to suggest they continue their conversation in the comfort of her workspace.

The term he used—”prod,” a casual shorthand for “prodigy”—was the one quirk of his that irked Nettie. While it didn’t truly hurt her feelings, it felt too informal for her taste and less professional than the relationship she had envisioned.

Once inside her office, after Max conducted his usual check for safety, Nettie sank heavily into her chair, feeling the day’s weight settle on her shoulders. Across from her, Kevin settled comfortably into an armchair, his expression open and attentive.

“It has been challenging, to say the least,” she confessed, ready to share the burdens of her day with the one person who truly understood the pressures she faced in her budding career.

“Well,” Kevin said, his tone firm yet surprisingly gentle, “I’m ordering you to drop everything and go home for the day.”

Shock swept over her as she processed his words. She couldn’t remember the last time she had left the office before sunset. It was her second home, where she spent hours preparing meticulous notes and strategizing for the next morning’s cases. “But I have so much to do,” she protested, as she glanced at the desk overflowing with files clamoring for her attention.

“Then, come in early if it pleases you,” he replied with a slight shrug, his eyes softening, “but you must go home now.” He waved his hand dismissively, as if to brush aside her concerns. “Take a bubble bath, run on the beach, do something to unwind, and forget all about today.”

The idea of sand between her toes began to entice her, offering a glimpse of peace amidst the chaotic whirlwind of her work life.

She would never forget this fateful day, regardless of her mundane activities. It lingered in her mind like a vivid photograph, a constant reminder of the unfolding tumultuous events. Deep down, she understood her role and the expectations placed upon her. When Kevin asserted his authority and firmly put his foot down, she knew obedience was no longer a choice but a necessity.

“Thank you,” she replied. She was acutely aware that this was the response Kevin anticipated, one that would satisfy their unspoken agreement.

“Good,” he replied, rising from his chair with an air of finality. He was in charge, his confident demeanor making her feel comforted and constrained. “As I understand it, Max and Ryan will be trailing behind you on your way home. However, they won’t be the only ones looking out for you. In a couple of hours, they’ll be relieved by another set of deputies.”

He paused, shaking his head slightly as if the situation frustrated him. “I trust every one of them. They’re dedicated, and their commitment will see you safe.”

Nettie stood by her desk, her heart racing as her boss finally left the office. The quiet hum of fluorescent lights filled the space, amplifying the moment. She slowly pulled her purse from its designated resting place in the cluttered desk drawer, her mind momentarily drifting to thoughts of her paralegal. With a quick flick of her wrist, she picked up the receiver, her fingers hovering over the buttons as she dialed Joann’s extension.

“Joann—” she started.

“I know,” Joann interjected, her tone light but echoing a shared understanding. “He already told me to leave as well. I’m just waiting for you to wrap up your day.”

A wave of gratitude washed over Nettie, making her feel a little lighter. “You didn’t have to do that, but thank you. I’m on my way out now,” she replied, a smile creeping onto her face despite the long day behind her.

“How early will you arrive tomorrow?” Joann asked.

With a heavy sigh, Nettie answered, “Early.” The weight of her responsibilities settled on her shoulders once again.

“See you then.”

The call ended with a soft click, leaving Nettie with her thoughts as she turned toward her office door. “Let’s go, Max and Ryan,” she said, her tone cheerful as she breezed past them, ready to escape the confines of her office into the evening air. The promise of tomorrow lingered in her mind, but the day was finally ending for now.

Only when she pulled into her driveway did the familiar sight of a Jeep come into view. Adrenaline surged through her, almost compelling her to slam on the brakes and retreat to her office. Why was Casper here, of all places? The memory struck her like a lightning bolt—she’d forgotten he’d followed them home, meaning he knew her address. Yet, she had never anticipated that he would arrive at her house, especially without warning.

With a deep breath, she parked her car beside the Jeep, every instinct on high alert as she caught sight of his unmistakable silhouette inside the vehicle. It was as if the universe had conspired to set this scene, turning her quiet evening into a tense moment. The sheriff’s car was positioned behind them, effectively boxing them both in. As if to add to the mounting anxiety, one of the officers inside the vehicle suddenly flicked on the car’s flashing lights, casting a surreal glow over the scene and illuminating her sense of dread.