Judge Hanley’s chair scraped harshly against the polished wood floor. That sound did what Colonel Carter’s warning had not. It shattered the courtroom’s disbelief.
“Bailiff,” the judge ordered, “call emergency services now. Clear the aisle.”
The bailiff, a broad man named Officer Miller, reached for his radio. “Medical emergency in Courtroom Four. We need EMS immediately.”
Daniel’s smirk finally disappeared, though only halfway. He looked irritated, as if my body had picked an inconvenient moment to betray him.
Colonel Carter loosened the collar of my blouse with careful fingers, never crossing the line of dignity. “Ma’am, stay with me. What’s your name?”
“Emily,” I breathed.
“Emily, do you have any medical conditions?”
I tried to answer, but pain tightened around my chest and ribs. My vision narrowed. The ceiling lights became white coins floating in black water.
“She has anxiety,” Daniel said quickly. “Panic attacks. She makes them look worse.”
Colonel Carter did not look at him. “Sir, stop talking.”
Daniel blinked. “Excuse me?”
“I said stop talking.”
That silenced even Patricia.
The judge stepped down from the bench, his black robe moving around him like a shadow. “Colonel, what do you believe is happening?”
“I can’t diagnose her here,” Carter said, checking my skin temperature and pulse again, “but this is not courtroom theatrics. Her pulse is irregular. She’s pale, clammy, and disoriented. She may be in cardiac distress or suffering a severe neurological event.”
My hearing faded in and out.
I heard Patricia whisper, “This is ridiculous.”
Then I heard the judge.
“Mrs. Whitaker,” he said, and his voice had changed. It was no longer stern. “Emily. Can you understand me?”
I forced my eyes toward him.
“Blink once for yes,” Colonel Carter said.
I blinked.
“Do you feel safe going home with your husband today?” the judge asked.
Daniel snapped, “Your Honor, this is completely inappropriate.”
Judge Hanley turned his head slowly. “Mr. Whitaker, one more interruption and you will be removed.”
For the first time all morning, Daniel looked uncertain.
I blinked once. Then, with the little strength I had left, I moved my head from side to side.
No.
The room went still again.
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