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Elizabeth studied J.R. as he strolled down the courthouse hallway in a suit and tie, freshly shaven, with his hair in a short, conservative cut, like a clone of the attorney with him.
John kept his body between Ariana and J.R., his head pivoting as if daring J.R. to make eye contact with him.
“Just ignore him. The judge will see through appearances,” Jillian’s prosecutor attorney friend, Cindy, assured Ariana.
“What if the judge won’t grant a restraining order?” Ariana asked once the pair disappeared around the corner.
“I don’t think that’s going to happen, especially with Judge Fraley. But, if it does, at least it’s on file that you requested one if he proves to be a threat again. And the arrest stays on his record even if you don’t press charges. Though he wouldn’t do time, it would be a bad move to threaten you again, and any premeditation would weigh heavily at sentencing.”
“Doing the smart thing isn’t exactly J.R.’s forte.”
“He’s not totally stupid, and he’s going to know what he’s dealing with.” John pointed down the hallway to a group of men in camouflage uniforms heading directly for them. “Ladies, I’d like you to meet my team. They’re alsoyourteam,” he said to Ariana.
“Oh my.” Ariana’s eyes misted and she gave a relieved smile.
“It’s not overkill, is it?” he asked Cindy.
Elizabeth doubted he’d care if it was. He hadn’t said a word to her about bringing his entire team. This went over and above the call of duty not only for him, but his men.
“As long as you all sit there quietly and respectfully,” Cindy warned. “That means no gestures. No sounds. Not even eye rolls.”
“Yes, ma’am.” John acknowledged the orders.
Elizabeth gave a grateful nod to the men, several of whom seemed to discreetly study her. What had John told them about his current living arrangements? About her?
When the bailiff summoned them into the courtroom a short while later, Ariana made the sign of the cross, took a deep breath, and rose to her feet.
“Wait and let J.R. and his attorney enter first,” Cindy advised. Based on the wide-eyed, concerned expressions when J.R. and his attorney filed past John and his team, her strategy worked. “All right then. Let’s go kick some ass the legal way.”
Ariana and Cindy took seats at the table near the empty jury box.
Elizabeth sat between Jillian and John, while his team filled two rows behind them. Upon entering the courtroom and taking the bench, the robed judge raised her eyebrows at their silent presence. Everyone sat as court was called to order.
“Mr. Elliott, you’re being charged with misdemeanor assault on a female. How do you plead?” Judge Fraley asked.
“Your honor, we’re willing to offer a plea deal,” Cindy spoke before J.R. answered. “If Mr. Elliott agrees to plead guilty and to the issuance of a restraining order for the protection of Miss Mercado, we’ll drop the charges, allowing Mr. Elliott to avoid jail time.”
“Your honor, may I have a moment to confer with my client?” J.R.’s attorney requested.
The two bowed their heads and conversed in whispered tones. J.R. cast a glance Ariana’s way. They stood after only a few moments.
“We agree to the plea agreement.”
“Mr. Elliott, do you understand that a guilty plea will go on your permanent record? A restraining order will be issued prohibiting you from contacting Miss Mercado in any manner and you’ll be required to keep a distance of fifty feet for a period of three years. Any violation of the restraining order may result in charges and up to five months in jail for the first offense.”
“I do,” J.R. answered.
“For the record, how do you plea to the charge of misdemeanor assault?”
“Guilty,” J.R. said.
Ariana’s relieved sigh sounded in the silence. Elizabeth could relate. Tears sprang to her eyes.
“Yessss,” John said under his breath.
“Thank you.” Elizabeth placed a hand over his and squeezed.
“You’re welcome.” He leaned his head closer to hers. “It was a joint effort. Mostly you and Ariana.”
