Gemotions

The empty courtroom seemed to mock Edward. Judge Thompson, the man who had mentored him, taught him, even believed in him, had vanished. The notice, a cold legalistic decree, was the only acknowledgment of his departure. Edward could feel the heat creeping up his neck.

He paced the courtroom, replaying arguments in his head. Thompson had been his constant guide. Now, Edward had to argue alone. It felt wrong, like a betrayal.

He'd win this case. He'd show Thompson, wherever he was, that his guidance hadn't been wasted. He'd do it without a phone call, without a note, without a single word.