Page 45 of Choose Us

High-profile murder inKensington.

Paula

Defendant specifically requested you to represent them.

Paula

Serious media coverage. He can pay the big bucks.

Her message was followed by numerous bags of money emojis. When Paula was excited, she couldn’t type one long message; she had to do it insmall parts.

Paula

Look at the BBC News app.

I opened the app. The first news story read—Millionaire businessman accused of murdering his ex-wife’s new boyfriend—It pricked my interest instantly.

Holly

Interesting. Why doeshe want me?

Requests for my representation increased the longer my winning streak prevailed. A high-profile case meant exposure, which meant higher fees and unlimited resources.

Paula

I have no idea. It’s not like you’re any goodat your job.

Paula added three laughing emojis.

Holly

Funny. Will you set up a meeting with him and gather all the relevant information ASAP? I can review the case as soon as I receive it and set up an appointmentafter that.

I liked to move quick. Clients didn’t have time to wait.

Paula

Already done. I’m speaking with him atnoon today.

I noted the time, it must’ve been 5 a.m. in London.

Holly

Perfect. Early riser today? Did you piss yourself?

In my absence she had no choice but to get up early, and I know she hated me for it.

Paula

Yes, you do that with old age. That, and the lawyer I work with has taken herself halfway across the world and I’m left to deal with her shit.

A poop shaped emoji followed.

Holly

She sounds terrible.

I joked.