VERSUS (Second Chances 2)

I feel like I’m in the middle of a goddamn circus.

The judge bangs her gavel once. “Order in the court.”

I take a step closer to Martin. “I need to know where Eden Conrad is.”

“Mr. Colt.” The Judge shoots me a look that is meant to shut me the hell up. “One more outburst and you’ll be found in contempt.”

“Ms. Conrad is unavailable,” Martin says in an even tone.

Judge Mycella nods. “Very well.”

No. Not very well. No fucking way.

“I need a sidebar, your honor.” I start walking toward her. “Now.”

Her brow twists in confusion. “Alright. Fine. Counsel will approach.”

Martin takes his sweet time walking to the bench. “What’s the issue here, Dylan?”

“My question as well,” Peggy says, glaring at me.

I fist my hands at my sides. “I need you to tell me where Eden Conrad is.”

“I don’t see how that’s your business.” Martin tucks his hands in the pockets of his pants.

I shoot Peggy a look. “It’s my business.”

“Mr. Colt and Ms. Conrad are old friends,” Peggy explains. “I think it’s safe to say that Mr. Colt is surprised by the change in counsel and his question is related to concern for his friend.”

“Exactly.” I tap a hand on the bench to avoid wrapping it around Martin’s neck.

I want a fucking answer to my question.

Martin scrubs his forehead with his hand. “In that case, I suppose it’s fine to tell you.”

I wait while he gazes down at the floor before he finally looks at me.

“Eden was on her way back from Buffalo early this morning.” He leans closer, lowering his voice. “She was driving. There was an accident.”

I reach for the bench to steady myself.

Christ. No. Please no.

Peggy gasps. “Oh, my goodness. What is her condition?”

“Where is she?” I blurt out. “Tell me where she is?”

“I don’t know her condition.” He lowers his voice. “All I know is that she was in a car wreck.”

“A continuance.” I thump my fisted hand on the bench. “I need a continuance.”

“Granted.” Peggy doesn’t miss a beat as she brings the gavel down. “We’re adjourned until a week from now.”

***

Before we hit the elevator, Gunner is on the phone with Lennox Hill Hospital. I’m waiting for Betsy Burton to pick up.

I cut her off before she can finish her greeting. “Betsy, this is Dylan Colt. I need to know everything you know about Eden Conrad.”