"Semi-Short Stories" [ Story Collection ]

The Trial [] 5/12 []

They're taking a break. After Charlotte's heated statement, which ended in her screaming at Daciana, the judge thought it would be best to take a few minutes so that anyone who needed it could calm down. Max and Matthew were conversing in a quiet corner near the bathrooms. Max's anxiety was beginning to get to them again. They're overly aware of everything - the muttered voices of those speaking around them, the time continuously ticking down, the sun warming their arms through the windows, the-

"That man is staring at me."

Matthew not-so-discreetly turns around to look where Max had indicated. Sure enough, there's a man dressed in a grey suit, his hair covered by a fedora.

"It's kind of an old time-y courtroom appearance, don't you think? What's with the hat?"

"Isn't it weird how he's staring at me?" Max narrows their eyes. They're glaring at the stranger, who notices and looks away sheepishly.

"A bit. Maybe he's trying to figure out which kid you are. This was in the paper after all, and you look a bit different from that picture. Your hair is longer and, well, mostly red."

They run a hand through their hair when it's mentioned. "Yeah, you're probably right." They take a look at their phone. "Almost time. I feel like I might puke. What if I puke up there?"

"You won't puke, Max. You'll be just fine." Since he's unable to sit with them, he gives them a single, tight, reassuring hug. "We're here for you. No matter what happens, we'll always be here for you."

Max nods. They peek over Matt's shoulder and make eye contact with the man. His eyes are familiar.