LEAVE IT

The next day, Gerald went to the courthouse with his lawyer. He was nervous and anxious. As he and the lawyer walked side by side, all he hoped for was everything to go well.

He hoped he would see Hazel soon and that he would be able to take her home with him. He just couldn't let the poor girl keep suffering out for absolutely, almost no reason.

He waited in the lobby until his lawyer told him it was time to go. He followed him to the courtroom where Hazel's arraignment was taking place. He entered the room and looked around.

There was in, the judge, the prosecutor, the bailiff, and the court reporter. He saw a few reporters and spectators.

Then he saw Hazel.

She was sitting at a table with another lawyer, who had been appointed by the court to represent her until Gerald's lawyer could take over. She was wearing an orange jumpsuit and handcuffs.

She looked tired and scared. She looked up and saw Gerald. She smiled weakly and waved at him.

Gerald smiled back pitifully and waved