With his project about to be physically destroyed before his eyes, what possible last recourse remains for Devon? Outside on the courthouse steps, Devon paces the sidewalk while Laura makes a series of frantic calls to other judges seeking emergency intervention. No one is available on such short notice, she admits with clear frustration, and most of them won’t risk crossing Judge Harmon anyway. Devon’s phone suddenly rings. His father at last. Dad, they’re destroying my project right now as we speak. I know, son. I’ve been fully briefed on the situation. Put me on speakerphone. Devon complies, still confused by his father’s calm certainty. Laura watches with growing curiosity. This is Robert Taylor speaking. His father’s authoritative voice fills the open air around them. Who am I speaking with right now? Laura Chen, public defender’s office. Your son’s project is being improperly destroyed by Judge Harmon at this very moment. I understand completely, Miss Chen. Please escort Devon back inside the building immediately. Insist on seeing Judge Harmon in person. Tell security to call this exact number if they offer any resistance. He recites a government extension number clearly.
Laura looks skeptical but nods in agreement. We’ll try, Mr. Taylor. They re-enter the courthouse together. At the security checkpoint they are stopped at once. Devon Taylor is banned from these premises by direct order, the guard states flatly. Laura stands her ground without raising her voice. We need to see Judge Harmon right now. If you refuse this request, please call the number I’m showing you. She holds up her phone displaying the extension. The guard hesitates, then reluctantly makes the call. His entire expression changes dramatically within seconds. Yes, sir. Right away, sir. He hangs up looking suddenly deferential. You may both proceed directly to Judge Harmon’s chambers. As they walk through the long corridors, Devon whispers, What just happened back there? Laura shakes her head, equally confused. Who exactly is your father? He works for the Justice Department. That’s all I’ve ever really known.
They reach the outer office of Judge Harmon’s chambers. His clerk tries firmly to turn them away until Laura mentions the phone number once more. The clerk disappears inside and returns only moments later looking pale. The judge will see you now. They enter the private office to find Judge Harmon standing rigidly behind his large desk. Devon’s partially damaged project sits in front of him. A heavy hammer rests nearby on the polished surface. This is pure harassment, the judge begins immediately. I’ve already made my final decision regarding this device. Laura steps forward with professional calm. Your honor, we have clear instructions to call this number if you refuse to return Mr. Taylor’s property at once. She displays the phone again. Judge Harmon scoffs dismissively. Some low-level bureaucratic underling doesn’t concern me in the slightest.
