Page 129 of Precise Justice

“No, not at all,” Marc said.

She sat down next to Maddy. “I’ve heard,” she said then tilted her head and shifted her eyes toward Maddy, “from a reputable source that you could use some help on your trans homicide case.”

Marc looked at Maddy while asking, “Who might this reputable source be?”

Maddy tried looking away but the game was up.

“I don’t reveal my sources,” Jennifer said.

“Actually, Jenny. I’ve been thinking about asking you. I tried to commandeer Kellie but she has the bar exam coming up. You want in?”

“Yes! Thanks, Maddy,” Jennifer said.

“Carvelli’s on his way back. Do you have plans for this evening?” Marc asked.

“No, why?”

“Maddy would love it if you would join us for dinner,” Marc said.

“She would?” Jennifer asked, turning to Maddy.

“Yes, she would,” Maddy replied.

FORTY-EIGHT

Dear DiaryMay 5

I’ve been forgetful to write to you recently. I’ll try to be better.

Today was the third day of jury selection for my trial. In three days, we have only selected four jurors. Marc told me the judge is not happy. At this rate it could take 3 weeks just to pick a jury.

We started Monday morning. I was so afraid I could not sleep at all the night before. Because I had not slept, during jury selection on Monday, I became so bored I fell asleep 3 or 4 times. Jennifer Moore, the second lawyer, had to shake me to wake me up.

There are hundreds of protestors marching around the government center. From what I have been told, they are all in my favor. Very much pro transgender, Maddy told me. She went out to watch them and almost all of them have professionally made signs like, Free Robbie, Justice for Trans People and the ever popular No Justice No Peace among the signs. Big protest on my behalf. I wish they would go away. I don’t want the publicity.

Marc told me that jury selection is going fine. Jennifer agrees. They should know. They both have a lot of experience. Funny how much I trust them.

I wish Ms. Rivers was at the table all of the time. She comforts me. I know this is wrong and I would never do anything, she’s engaged to Marc. But I think I may be in love with her.

Time for bed. I have slept better the last 2 nights. Oh, I forgot to mention. I’m staying with my Dad. I don’t want to be alone.

While Judge Foster was looking at the wall clock, 11:35, a deputy rushed in. Without checking with anyone, he hurried through the gate. Foster turned to him with a concerned look and waved him up to the bench. There was a whispered conversation, then the deputy left.

“We’ll break for lunch. I’ll see council in chambers,” Foster said.

Still wearing his robe and leaning on the back of his chair, Foster addressed the lawyers.

“I’ve been told there is a bit of a riot taking place down along Fourth Avenue.

“It seems a group of our less enlightened citizens showed up.”

He looked at Marc and Jennifer then continued. “They were carrying signs definitely opposed to your client, Marc.

“They were pretty loud and boisterous. Not enough cops since the pro-trans people were peacefully marching. I guess a fight broke out.

“You and your client may want to stay here for lunch. I can send out for a box lunch for you, courtesy of the taxpayers.”

“Thanks your Honor, but I’d prefer to go down to the cafeteria. That way, I can go out on the skyway and see what’s going on,” Marc replied.