Julian stood up slowly. He didn’t approach the bench. He didn’t look at the judge. He looked directly at Richard. Your honor, Julian said, his voice calm, resonant, and filling the room without a microphone. Mr. Sterling is correct about one thing. There was a gas leak. It was created at exactly 2:15 a.m.
Created? The judge looked up, confused. What are you implying? I am not implying anything, Julian said, his eyes hardening. I am stating a fact. The leak was caused by a heavy-duty pipe wrench wielded by city inspector Thomas Graves. Richard Sterling laughed. It was a nervous, high-pitched sound. Objection.
This is absurd. Counsel is launching conspiracy theories because he has no case. This is slander against a city official. I would like to call my first witness, Julian interrupted, his voice cutting through Richard’s laughter like a knife. Detective Angela Holloway of the Atlanta Police Department, Major Crimes Unit. The double doors at the back of the courtroom swung open with a bang. Detective Holloway walked in, her face grim. But she wasn’t alone. She was guiding a man in handcuffs, shuffling in an orange jumpsuit, his ankles shackled. It was Inspector Graves. He looked pale, sweaty, and terrified.
A collective gasp swept through the gallery. The stenographer stopped typing, her mouth open. Richard Sterling’s face drained of all color. He gripped the edge of the table, his knuckles turning white. What is the meaning of this? Judge Halloway demanded, standing up. Why is a witness in chains? This man, Julian said, pointing an accusing finger at Graves, was arrested last night while sabotaging my client’s home. He has confessed to the police. He has confessed to the district attorney. And now he is here to confess to this court.
Julian walked up to the witness box as Graves was sworn in. Mr. Graves, Julian said softly, leaning on the railing, you are under oath. Who hired you to break the gas valve at 1402 Oak Street? Graves looked at Richard Sterling. Richard’s eyes were wide, telegraphing a frantic message. Shut up. Don’t say a word. I’ll fix this. But Graves saw the detective standing by the door. He saw the judge’s furious face. He knew Richard couldn’t save him. It was him, Graves croaked, his voice shaking.
