The Hockey Star’s Remorse

Chapter 35

It was my first experience in a court room. It wasn’t like the comedic setting of reality tv where civil cases are handled with small laughs and some parties willing to cut their losses. My reality was a small, boxed–in room with far less seating.

The judge had yet to arrive at their bench, but Jasper and Mr. Fitzgerald were already at the prosecution desk, having a heated discussion. The jury gallery had a few lost–looking souls in it, probably wishing they were at home rather than dealing with a heavy dispute.

There was fortunately no public gallery present, so any misstep of mine could be reserved for the confidentiality of the court. If this didn’t go our way, we needed as much privacy as possible.

Timothy followed me to the defense table and took the seat beside me. I kept my eyes averted from Jasper and Mr. Fitzgerald, who didn’t hesitate to glare in our direction. Fortunately, the judge entered from her chambers.

“Please rise. The Court is now in session, the Honorable Judge Lauren Jackson presiding.” yelled the bailiff.

We all stood as the judge walked up to her stand. She was a short, old woman who walked with a purpose. She had a set of glasses perched on the bridge of her nose as she looked out at her small audience.

Once she was seated, she called for us to do the same as well. I inhaled deeply and took my seat, feeling more lightheaded than before. I felt Timothy’s eyes on me, and he looked ready to say something before the judge proceeded.

“Everyone but the jury may be seated. Bailiff, please swear in the jury,” she said. calmly.

The bailiff turned to the jury, eerily stern. “Please raise your right hand. Do you solemnly swear or affirm that you will truly listen to this case and render a true verdict and a fair sentence as to this defendant?

“I do,” the jury echoed amongst each other.

“You may be seated.”

“Let’s hope other people will be just as honorable,” Timothy whispered into my

1/5

Need Top Metal Stamping? Get 10% Discount (Start Now]

13:05 Wed, 20 Mar RS

Chapter 33

car. I cast a glance at Jasper and Mr. Fitzgerald, who had reduced their own conversation to a whisper. I could almost sense the arrogance as it swarmed around them.

含50%飯

“Well, we’re all under oath. Honorable is all they can be,” I said. Part of me doubted. it, however.

“Bailiff.” Judge Jackson continued, moving her gavel. “What is today’s case?”

Fitzgerald vs

prosecution to stay its claim. We watched silently as Jasper stood back up and strolled to the podium up front. He adjusted the microphone. and gave it a few

Honor, members of the jury, my name is Jasper, and I am representing James Fitzgerald of Clayton Sports Center in this case. We intend to prove that the defendant is guilty

through the evidence I had gathered in preparation for my testimony. The facts were on our side, and I was determined to reveal the truth, though I

took his seat. I walked to

I spoke. I could hear

clenched my jaw and thanked

the witness stand. He gave his explanation of the events, of course favoring his own

be the greediest, however,” Mr. Fitzgerald went on.

I could comfort him somehow, but I didn’t need to give the prosecution any credibility toward

Metal Stamping? Get a 10% Discount

13:05 Wed, 20 Mar

Chapter 35

said Judge Jackson once Jasper finished his

50%

before seating himself. I took a deep breath and grabbed my

wave. It was as if the eyes of the entire world were upon me, waiting for

myself to stay calm. But

My vision blurred,

gripped the edge of the

reassuring hand on my shoulder. His touch grounded me in the moment and he whispered, “You can do this, Evie. I

managed a weak

now.

focused on the breathing technique. he had taught me. Inhale deeply for four counts, hold for four counts, and exhale for

my voice trembling only slightly. “I will present evidence. that Timothy’s breach

recounted the events that had led to Timothy’s departure from the club. The relentless pressure and the blatant disregard for his well–being had pushed him to a breaking point. It was a story of exploitation and abuse, a tale that should never have been tolerated

resonating. The atmosphere shifted, and it was as if a storm was brewing, about

and testimonies that exposed the club leader’s fraudulent activities. The judge’s brow furrowed, and Mr. Fitzgerald, sitting with a stoic expression, couldn’t hide the unease in

Metal Stamping? Get a

Wed, 20 Mal

Chapter 35

leader. I presented the contract, which was riddled with stipulating terms that

and exploitation under the club leader’s reign. Their

his feet, his face red

for itself. The mistreatment of players and the fraudulent practices were pervasive. The truth must be