I have no objection to a continuance for the purpose of testimony, Julian said smoothly. However, given the fraudulent nature of the plaintiff’s claim, I would ask the court to order the plaintiff to post a bond. If my grandmother is being harassed by a billion-dollar corporation using fake documents, she deserves security.

Reasonable, Judge Halloway said. Plaintiff will post a bond of $100,000 to cover the defendant’s potential legal fees and damages. We reconvene in 48 hours. Friday morning, 9:00 a.m. Do not be late. The gavel banged.

Richard felt the blood rush to his face. $100,000 was pocket change to his client, but the humiliation was priceless. He had just been ordered to pay a bond to a woman he was trying to evict. As the court adjourned, Richard signaled for his associates to leave. He waited for Julian near the exit. He needed to end this before Friday. If Vargo didn’t find dirt, Richard would have to use the universal solvent: money. Julian was packing his battered satchel when Richard approached him. Mr. Banks, Richard said, putting on his best senior partner smile. It was a smile that looked like a shark baring its teeth. Impressive show today.

A bit theatrical with the hoodie, but effective. Julian didn’t look up. I aim to please. Look, let’s cut the crap, Richard said, lowering his voice. You’re young. You’re hungry. I looked up your grandmother’s property. It’s worth what? $200,000 on a good day. The house is falling apart. It’s a money pit. Richard reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a checkbook. Apex Horizon is a generous company, Richard lied. They don’t want to fight a widow. They just want to build. I am authorized right now to offer you a settlement. We will pay your grandmother $500,000 for the property. That’s double the market value.

She can move into a nice assisted living facility in Florida. And you? Richard wrote a figure on a separate piece of paper and slid it across the table. It was the number $50,000. This is a consulting fee for you, Richard whispered. For facilitating the deal. You walk away with $50,000, your grandma is rich, and this case goes away. No risk of losing on Friday. No risk of me destroying your career before it starts.

Julian finally stopped packing. He looked at the check. Then he looked at the paper with the $50,000 figure. He picked up the paper. $50,000, Julian mused. That’s a lot of money for a guy in a hoodie. It’s a starter kit for a real life, Richard pressed, sensing weakness. Buy a suit. Rent an office.