the situation. Was he a bully, or was he genuinely protecting the court?
'I was just looking around,' Arthur said mildly, keeping his tone conversational. 'It's a very impressive
room.'
'This isn't a museum, pal,' Jenkins snapped, stopping at the edge of the well. 'It's a court of law. And
unless you're Judge Pendelton, who happens to be starting his first day today, you are trespassing in a
restricted area.'
Arthur raised an eyebrow. 'And if I don't want to move?'
Jenkins squared his shoulders, his hand moving to the handcuffs on his belt. 'Then I will physically
remove you, sir. I don't care who you are or who you know. Nobody disrespects this courtroom on my watch.
Last warning. Step down.'
Arthur studied the man's face. There was no malice in Jenkins' eyes, only a fierce, protective dedication.
This was a man who respected the institution. Arthur found himself respecting Jenkins in return.
'
eciding not to push the man to violence, Arthur raised his hands in a gesture of surrender.
'Alright, alright. There's no need for handcuffs. I'm coming down.'
He picked up his thermos and slowly descended the three steps from the bench. Jenkins watched him like
a hawk, not relaxing his stance until Arthur was fully in the well, standing near the defense table.
'Now grab your bag and head out to the hallway,' Jenkins ordered, gesturing toward the door. 'The public
gallery doesn't open for another hour. You can wait out there with the rest of them.'
'I'd actually prefer to stay in here, if you don't mind,' Arthur said, leaning casually against the wooden