Chapter 17 - The Verdict That Changed Julian
Whitmore’s trial attracted national attention.
His defense argued he had merely connected attorneys with information sources.
Prosecutors presented the Shepherd Book.
Payments.
Messages.
Recordings.
Witnesses.
Then Julian testified against his former mentor.
Whitmore watched him with almost paternal disappointment.
The prosecutor asked:
“What did Justice Whitmore mean to you?”
“Everything.”
“And now?”
Julian looked at him.
“He is a reminder that admiration should never replace accountability.”
Whitmore’s attorney attacked Julian’s credibility.
“You benefited from Justice Whitmore’s influence.”
“Yes.”
“You owe your career partly to him.”
“Yes.”
“And now you condemn him?”
“I testify about what I know.”
“Convenient.”
“No.”
Julian paused.
“Necessary.”
The jury convicted Whitmore.
When the verdict was read, Whitmore showed no emotion.
As deputies approached, he looked at Julian.
“You think you won?”
Julian shook his head.
“This was never about winning.”
For once, Whitmore had no reply.
Outside, reporters demanded statements.
Julian walked past them.
Clara waited beside a car.
Alba sat inside waving.
“You’re not talking to reporters?” Clara asked.
“No.”
“That’s new.”
“I’m learning.”
She smiled.
“So what now?”
Julian looked at the courthouse.
“Now I decide whether I still belong in there.”
Clara took his arm.
“Whatever you decide, decide because you want it.”
Not because of reputation.
Not because of pride.
Not because of Whitmore.
Julian nodded.
That night he removed his old judicial robe from the closet.
He placed it on the bed.
Then he placed Alba’s courthouse drawing beside it.
May you like
PEOPLE FIRST.
The next morning he made his decision.
