Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Series Book 1) by MK Harkins

Author:MK Harkins [Harkins, MK]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: General Fiction
Published: 2022-05-26T16:00:00+00:00

“Judge Ives asked to meet with us in his chambers. You’re lucky he’s not in the mood for a big media event.” Leona pointed down a narrow hallway that led us away from the public courtrooms.

My stomach sank. Why the feeling of dread? This should be a slam dunk. I hadn’t been arrested, and Ashley was innocent. The judge’s words from a few months ago came back to haunt me. Not even a hint of scandal or trouble, he’d said with conviction while slamming down his gavel. I took in a large breath and followed Leona into the small room.

His gray-haired head was bent over his desk, flipping through paperwork scattered over every surface. His steely blue eyes glanced up at me then back down. “Sit.”

I flashed Leona a panicked look. She shrugged and sat in one of the large chairs facing his desk. Wiping sweat from my brow, I lowered myself into the other and tried to appear calm. It wasn’t like I was guilty or anything. But could he choose to make an example of me? Would he think I broke the conditions of parole and rule I had to spend the rest of my time in jail? I wiped my forehead again.

“Mr. James,” he started.

“Yes, sir.”

“The court has informed me that you have been involved in an unfortunate incident.” His eyes met mine again. This time they stayed put, unwavering.

No wonder everyone called him “Intimidating Ives.”

“Yes, sir.”

Leona was also a practicing attorney and had coached me on the plane. Simple answers to specific questions. No elaborating.

Keeping the words in check and explaining the entire messed-up night took all my energy.

“I’ve gone through the police reports and also looked over the negative press you’ve been receiving since this broke.” His lips thinned, and a crease formed between his brows. “You are aware this new situation makes me look like I signed off on a plea deal which panders to a spoiled, teenage celebrity.”

“Sir, may I speak?” I’d explode if he didn’t let me tell my side.

“Make it quick.” He crossed his arms and sat back in his chair.

“I wasn’t arrested, and the girl, her name is Ashley, was released with no charges. Someone wanted her to get into trouble, at least short term, so they planted drugs.”

“And why would someone want to get her in trouble?” he asked.

“I have no idea.” I’d grilled Leona on the plane about her possible involvement. She was hella convincing she had nothing to do with it, but who knew? People lied, and I hadn’t ruled her out yet.

“Not the answer I hoped for, young man.” He sighed.

He pulled some papers from a file. “I’m not going to revoke your probation, but there will be new stipulations.”

My racing heart calmed a little. No jail time. Well, at least for now. A win.

“I’m writing an order for your probation officer about the girl…” He moved more papers around his desk. He picked up another file and opened it. “Ashley Adams.” He flipped through the pages.

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