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“Defense?” said Ambrose. “Any questions for this witness?”
DuBose said, “Mr. Hanover, do you have any direct knowledge that your father-in-law told the defendant that he was going to be fired, or had, indeed, fired him?”
“None whatsoever,” Hanover said firmly, staring at the jury.
DuBose looked at the jury as well and found that at least half of them did not even appear to be listening.
“Nothing further,” said DuBose, and Hanover was excused by Ambrose.
Battle rose and said, “Commonwealth rests, Your Honor.”
DuBose immediately said, “Motion to strike the common-wealth’s case.”
“On what grounds?” asked Ambrose.
“That the commonwealth has utterly failed to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. And it has, in particular, failed to provide any proof whatsoever that Pearl Washington was even at the scene of the crime while it was being committed, or did anything that the commonwealth alleges that she did. They have offered only one witness, who merely testified she was not at work that day. And without that, the evidence presented by the commonwealth vindicates our clients because Jerome Washington could not have committed those murders while having no blood on his clothing or shoes. The county’s own medical examiner was clear on that point. Further, the commonwealth has utterly failed to provide the murder weapon, or come up with any reason, bolstered by evidence, as to why it was not found on the defendant’s person. And, lastly, they have no proof that the money found in the lean-to was taken from the Randolphs’ home.”
Ambrose took off his glasses and cleaned them on his sleeve before putting them back on. “I know you’re only trying to do right by your clients, but the fact is the commonwealth has put on more than sufficient evidence to take this case to the jury, and you know it, too.” He glanced at the audience before continuing. “But you have the opportunity to rebut that case starting tomorrow. Your reputation has preceded you, Miss DuBose. I’m sure we all expect a powerful defense to the commonwealth’s long lists of proofs.” He rapped his gavel. “Court is dismissed and will reconvene at ten tomorrow morning.”
CHAPTER 74
JEFF!” SAID CHRISTINE OUTSIDE THE courthouse. “I heard you were in town.”
Jeff Lee smiled warmly. “Good to see you, Chrissy.”
“Haven’t been called that in years. In fact, you’re the only one who ever did.”
His smile faded. “I’m sorry. I’ll just make it Christine.”
“No, I always liked Chrissy. Christine seems so formal, and that’s just not me.”
“Sure not the gal that I knew,” said Jeff, grinning once more.
“So if you’re back, does that mean everything is okay?”
“I’m no longer in the Army and I can lead my life however I want to.”
She touched his arm. “I’m so glad. And I’m happy you came back to Freeman.”
“Well, it is my home. And my family is here.”
“And I’m so sorry about Lucy. She was just the sweetest thing under the sun.”
Jeff’s grin vanished once more and didn’t return. “Yes... yes she sure was.”
A horn sounded, and they looked over to see Gordon driving up in his elegant silver Rolls-Royce.
“Wow, that is some car,” said Jeff.
“Gordon likes nice things.”
“Heard you got kids. I’m really happy for you.”
“Thanks. Maybe we could talk some time, over coffee?”
He glanced at Gordon, who was staring at them from the car. “Anytime. Just let me know. I’m staying at my folks’ house.”
“I will.”
