Court Papers in the Locked Drawer of a Community Doctor
Sterling looked at his client, his expression turning from defensive to quietly horrified.
“Your Honor, my client was acting out of genuine concern,” Sterling said, though his voice had lost its confident edge.
“Do not insult this court, Mr. Sterling,” Judge Vance said, closing the file with a sharp, final thud. “This petition is dismissed with prejudice. I am referring this entire file, including the neurological report and the affidavits, to the state licensing board for a full review of Dr. Miller’s professional conduct.”
David sank back into his chair, his face pale and drained of all its usual professional confidence.
“Your Honor,” David whispered, his hand shaking as he touched his tie. “My practice.”
“You should have thought about your practice before you tried to use the legal system to steal your wife’s land,” Judge Vance said, her eyes cold as she looked at him. “We are finished here.”
We stood up, Emma and Ben immediately moving to my sides, their presence like two solid pillars holding me upright.
We walked out of the chambers and into the wide, quiet hallway, the heavy oak door clicking shut behind us.
