Page 46 of The Advocate’s Ultimatum

“You don’t get to set the rules,” Sabre said evenly. “Not here.”

Bay’s hands clenched at her sides. Finally, she said, “Fine. Him too.”

Sabre whispered to Vale what she wanted. He glanced at Bay.

Judge Hammouri cleared her throat.

“Ms. Brown, are you requesting involvement?” A brief pause, then the judge continued, “At this point, I’m inclined to remove that option. But before I do, I have a couple of questions.”

“Of course, Your Honor,” Sabre said.

“Have you ever represented the defendant in the past?”

“Not that I’m aware of, Your Honor. I do not recall her name or her face, although I understand she would have changed a lot if it was many years ago. I have searched the records for anyone named Bay Mercer and have not found any.”

The judge rubbed her forehead.

“Your Honor,” Sabre said. “I would like the opportunity to speak with the minor, alongside her counsel, before any further decisions are made.”

The judge turned to Vale. “Are you okay with that, Mr. Vale?”

“Yes, Your Honor.”

“Very well. This matter is in recess. Return in thirty minutes.” The judge looked back at Bay. “You will meet with Ms. Brown and your current counsel. And you will answer questions.”

Bay didn’t respond.

Judge Hammouri shifted her gaze back to Sabre and Vale. “And when you return,” she said, “I expect clarity.”

“Yes, Your Honor,” they responded in unison.

The bailiff turned to Sabre. “I’ll take her back to an interview room.”

“Thank you.” Sabre headed out.

Vale followed her. “Can I talk to you before we meet with her?”

“Of course.” Sabre assessed the other attorney. He looked younger than he probably wanted to.

“I think you should take the case.”

Sabre almost smiled. “I just declined it in open court.”

“I think you should reconsider.”

Sabre crossed her arms loosely, not defensive, just steady. “Why?”

Vale gestured back toward the courtroom. “Because she won’t talk to me. You saw that. She’s waiting for you.”

Sabre held his gaze. “That doesn’t mean I should take the case.”

Ethan shifted slightly, adjusting the file in his hand. “With respect, it kind of does.”

Sabre shook her head. “No. I’ve been getting messages with threats and ultimatums. Someone besides Bay is pressuring me to take the case.”

“And you think—”

Sabre cut him off. “I know what happens if I take it for that reason. I lose control. Every decision I make will be shaped by whoever’s behind the threats. I won’t practice law like that.”