“If they confirm your story, you’ll get your property back.” Judge Harmon’s smile doesn’t reach his eyes. “Maybe… eventually.”

Devon stares at his broken project. Data collected from his own neighborhood. Evidence of environmental injustice now treated like contraband.

“May I have a receipt for my property, your honor?” The judge’s smile falters. “Getting legal advice from somewhere, are we?”

Devon waits in the hallway, watching the minutes tick by. His presentation time approaches, but security won’t let him near room 302 without Judge Harmon’s approval. Dr. Williams spots Devon.

“There you are. Why aren’t you setting up? We start in 15 minutes.” “Judge Harmon confiscated my project. Says it’s suspicious.” Dr. Williams’s eyebrows shoot up. “That’s absurd. You’re our keynote student presenter.”

They return to Judge Harmon’s courtroom together. The judge is on a call, holding up one finger to make them wait. Devon notices how the judge’s posture changes when he sees Dr. Williams.

“Judge Harmon,” Dr. Williams begins when the call ends. “There’s been a misunderstanding. Devon Taylor is our invited presenter today.” The judge barely glances at him.

“This young man brought unauthorized electronic equipment into a federal building. That requires proper investigation.” “It’s a science project that I personally vetted.” “Did you run background checks on him and his family?” Judge Harmon asks sharply.

“Do you know where he’s from?” Devon feels heat rising in his face. Dr. Williams shifts uncomfortably. “He’s one of our brightest students.”

“That doesn’t answer my question.” Judge Harmon turns to Devon. “Where exactly are you from, Mr. Taylor?” “I was born in Chicago, sir. We moved here 3 years ago.”

“And before Chicago?” Devon blinks, confused. “My family has been in Chicago for generations.” Judge Harmon makes a dismissive noise.

“Your project will remain confiscated until proper authorities can inspect it.” However, he nods to Dr. Williams. “You can take responsibility for him attending the meeting without his device.”

Dr. Williams protests, but the judge cuts him off. “Should have thought of that before bringing unauthorized devices into a federal building.” The judge’s voice rises.

Devon follows Dr. Williams to the meeting room. His heart pounds as they enter. Twelve committee members sit around a conference table. Several observers line the walls.