Checkmate

17

When we reached my office, I allowed him to use my iPad as I got a few things out of the way for him to use my desk to do his homework. 

I'd just ordered us food and I was helping Sam win a race in subway suffers when Destiny informed me that Dellana had been looking for me.

Slowly pushing the door open, I found her lost on her computer. 

"Will our P.I bill break my back again this time?" she queried without halting the rapid tapping on her keyboard.

"It was all worth it."

"I hope so. Did you already talk to Pavelka?"

"He was summoned for a meeting."

"Good. That's all." She waved me off and I left. On my way to the office, I noticed Destiny with my food. Taking it from her, I brought it to my office where Sam was already working on his homework."I'm about to have some people over so I need you to pack all your things. You'll be working with Miki and the others."

"Okay," he said and began to put his stuff away.

"Destiny, can you please come to get Sam for me?" I said into the phone.

"Sure."

   I looked towards my boy. He was almost done, only his binder still on the table when he looked at me. He gave me one of those reassuring smiles, the ones that seemed to make his eyes sparkle and his nostrils flare just a bit. 

I blew him a kiss and he giggled right as Destiny came in, "I'm here." 

"Good. Take this one to the conference room."

I handed her the bag of food and Sam followed her out.

I was expecting Mr. Pavelka by 4 and it was already 3:46.

After putting a few things away, I heard a knock at the door before Destiny peaked in. 

"They're here."

"They?"

"Yes, Mr. Luther decided to tag along."

Great, just what I needed.

"Send them in."

They didn't leave me pacing around the couches long. 

Colton walked in first, followed by Mr. Pavelka.

"Gentlemen, I'm glad you were able to join me."

"No problem. I hope you're the bearer of good news. I can't take any more unfortunate discoveries," Jarred said.

The man looked like he'd aged since the last time we saw each other. Deep crescents lingered under his eyes. All that stress didn't look good on him.

"What happened?"

"The press caught wind of what's been going on. Another article was published this morning and I was painted as an unscrupulous man who'll slip through the cracks of our justice system due to my wealth."

I stayed quiet and shot Colton a warning glare to behave. Though he didn't seem ready with a comment, I didn't risk it. 

 Even when such accusations were proven to be false, it takes much more for social justice warriors to buy into it. To some, his reputation is forever ruined. Others will agree to keep away from the bad press now associated with his name.

"Okay, look. My team and I got to the bottom of this. We have enough to get her case thrown out but as your attorney, I need to know what you want to do before going forward with anything."