“I’m sorry that my car isn’t as fancy as yours with a water cooler and whatnot, but I prefer simpler things. Besides, an expensive car wouldn’t be practical considering I work in impoverished third world countr—“

“Yeah, yeah we know your story. You work with orphans, trying to feed the sick, cure the blind, and make the dead rise. I got it, Jesus.”

She scoffs, but continues to drive. “You’re so immature,” she tells me.

I scramble for a comeback. “Well, at least Ashley bought me a car. Did she buy you a car?”

Her face becomes flushed. “Whatever.”

I sit back, happy at my defeat.

Just then, she announces, “We’re here now. Happy?”

I sigh a breath of relief. “Actually, now, yes. Yes I am,” I say, stepping out of the car and breathing a breath of fresh air.

She looks completely annoyed now. “Just get in the courthouse. There’s air conditioning.”

———————–

A stout bailiff stood and orders, “All rise. Judge Alexander Finnegan is now presiding. You may be seated.”

I take a swift look around the room. Kristal and I had just gotten there less than two minutes ago, so she had no time to prepare herself. In fact, she was still scattering papers around the small desk.

“Good morning everyone. Is the prosecution ready?”

Mr. Scott, the district Attorney from the interrogation answers in the affirmative.

“How about the defense?”

Kristal looks frazzled. “Your honor, the defense requests the trial be postponed. We have had an insufficient amount of time to prepare and—“

“Request denied. This courthouse is completely backed up with cases. We must continue as scheduled.”

“Then, your honor, the defense asks that all charges be dismissed immediately on account of false charges and false arrest.”

“Oh?” He perked up. On what grounds?”

“On the grounds that the arrest warrant was not signed by Ms. Spencer Carlin. Ms. Carlin also does not have any grievances toward my client, so—“

Mr. Scott begins to chuckle throatily, interrupting Kristal. “Stupid, naïve, little newbie. Of course these charges are legitimate. Even if the woman in question or the victim didn’t file the charges, rape is not only classified a private matter, but also a matter of public concern.”