Silent Praise by Michelle Lindo-Rice

Author:Michelle Lindo-Rice
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: fiction, romance, multicultural, interracial, christian, africanamerican, bwwm, bwwm interracial romance, bwwm interracial
Publisher: Michelle Lindo-Rice

16

“I plead not guilty, Your Honor,” Francis stated into the microphone. He stood next to his defense attorney, David Rufalo.

From his seat in the rear of the courthouse, Chase’s eyes widened. He nudged Judd on the arm. Cameras flashed and members of the press scribbled furious notes.

Nadine jumped up from her seat in the front row. “Are you serious?” Before anyone could anticipate her next move, Nadine bounded through the small partition. Her black pants suit helped her pounce on Francis’ back with ease. She hammered his head with her fists.

“You monster. I hate your lying, cheating guts,” Nadine screamed. Her parents rushed out of their seats. But, the press blocked their path.

“Get off me.” Francis grabbed Nadine’s hair. Nadine bit his arms. Francis’s blood curling scream would be viewed on YouTube across the nation. When she tore her teeth away, his puncture wounds were clearly visible.

Judd vaulted out of his seat and raced toward the melee. The bailiffs sprung into action, prompting Chase to remain in his position.

“Stop it this instant!” Judge Wilkinson roared. “Mrs. Ashton, leave my courthouse before I have you arrested for assault.” He banged his gravel but Nadine latched like a monkey. It took some effort before the guards pried Nadine off Francis’ back. Nadine kicked and screamed before Judd scooped her into his arms.

Judd held onto Nadine as she wept in his arms. He led her out of the courthouse, shielding her face from the flashing cameras. That picture was sure to hit front-page news. Once Judd and Nadine had departed, calmness ensued. Nadine’s parents made as dignified an exit as they could, shielding their faces from the cameras.

“Mrs. Ashton will be banned from future proceedings,” the judge said. “While I understand her emotional turmoil, I cannot tolerate any outbursts in my courtroom.”

“Judge, may we take a break?” David asked. “My client needs emergency care.”

Chase had to agree. Francis’ Canali classic fit grey stripe suit looked ragged and torn. Nadine had one wicked temper when riled. She-Claw. Judd had met his match.

Judge Wilkinson shook his head. “No break.” Then glared at the press. “And, no more cameras. I can’t have this circus in my courtroom.”

“But—”

The judge held up a hand. “But, nothing. I’ll grant Mr. Ashton five minutes to comb his hair and tend to his hand. Then we’ll resume with the proceedings.”

David nodded. Chase was not surprised at Judge Wilkinson’s lack of empathy. Francis and David walked past him huddled together. During the break, Melanie and Tricia slipped inside the courtroom.

Chase eyed Melanie’s black jacket, cream undershirt tucked neatly into a figure-hugging black floral skirt, and nude stilettos and gulped. Her eyes widened when she spotted him. Her face held a light blush. Melanie lifted a hand and gave a small wave.

Chase returned the wave before his feet led him in her direction. He nodded at Tricia and reached over to kiss Melanie’s cheek. Chase knew he should pull away but he lingered. He smelled coconut and almonds. He placed another light kiss on Melanie’s cheek.

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