by Rachel Dylan
“And what about our spiritual leader?” Marta asked with a raised eyebrow.
Nina Marie should’ve known that there would be multiple people vying for that spot. Now wasn’t the time to show weakness or feign a democracy. She had to step in and take over.
“I will fulfill that role as well. I’ve basically been second in command for years. It only makes sense.”
“But what if we have a different opinion?” Matt asked.
“You’re free to have any opinion that you want, Matt.” Even though as she said it with a smile, happiness was the last emotion she was feeling. “Let’s have a reality check, people. Am I as likeable as Clive? Most certainly not. But I am the most powerful Astral Tech member here, I have the evil one’s ear, and I’m not afraid to do whatever it takes to get the job done.”
More grumbles sounded through the group but no one openly defied her. “I’m going to need everyone to play their part though. This lawsuit is heating up, and we’ll have the opportunity to take down Optimism once and for all. Now is the time to start the full court press on your recruiting efforts. I know we can do better on that front than what we have. And while I know not everyone here is of the same mind when it comes to all of the dark arts, whatever you do practice, you need to be focused on with a renewed effort. A battle is coming, people, whether we’re ready or not.”
“Nina Marie’s right,” Matt said. “Once word gets out of Clive’s death, Optimism will make a big push to dismantle us. Pick us apart piece by piece. Destroy not only our business through the lawsuit but our entire community. We cannot allow that to happen.”
Nina Marie appreciated Matt’s support, but there was a fine line in her mind between him being helpful and trying to usurp her power. She’d worked for years to gain the proper strategic position so that one day she’d be able to lead Astral Tech. She just hadn’t planned on it happening quite like this.
“We must be vigilant,” Nina Marie said. “There is no doubt that Optimism members will be coming to you and trying to either recruit you or worst case scenario—do you harm.”
“Has anyone experienced any attacks lately?” Marta asked.
A murmur of no’s went through the room.
“Don’t get complacent.” Matt stood and walked over beside Nina Marie. “Everyone should be on high alert. And I think we should continue to use our teams.”
“Yes, there’s no point in diverging from our teams.” Nina Marie’s end goal was to abolish the teams, but right now she needed them and the team leaders to be involved. “Team leaders, Matt, Marta and Eloisa. I want constant updates from you.” The teams were currently divided into those who practiced witchcraft, those who were more into the holistic New Age methods, and then those like her—a combination of things, but also actively participated in demonic activities.
“You’re right,” Marta said. “I’ll want to see all of those in my group when we break apart here for the night.”
“There’s no need to delay any team meetings. I don’t have anything more to add at this point,” Nina Marie said. She watched as Marta led her people out of the house. They would most likely be going out into the woods somewhere do their witchcraft. Eloisa huddled with her group in the back of the dining room. The New Age crew was the one she was the most worried about. Their commitment to her ultimate cause wasn’t as strong. Some of them didn’t even really believe in the devil. But she couldn’t afford to alienate anyone right now.
And then there was the most important group of people. Led by Matt, these men and women sought the evil one and embraced all that came with it. Matt also took them out of her house. She could’ve followed, but she wanted Matt to feel like he still had some measure of control over something so that he wouldn’t push for supreme leadership within the group.
She wanted her own private time to reflect and meditate with the evil one and his demons. She knew that they were a strong force around her, and that she had power. But these were not normal circumstances. What could she offer them that Layton couldn’t? It wasn’t exactly like loyalty was high on the list of top demon characteristics. No, they were fickle. They wanted to be on the side of the winner. So that’s what she had to make sure happened.
Tomorrow was a big day in court. She had no doubt that Layton would bring his A game. Who knows what kind of story he would concoct to justify his fabrication of the evidence? She would go to the forces of darkness and ask for help. And if that didn’t work, she’d take matters into her own hands.
**
Grant had barely slept. He’d tossed and turned thinking about what he should do. Not only what the law required, but also what his conscience required. As he walked into the courthouse on Friday morning, he was prepared to do what he needed to do.
He met a smiling Layton in front of the courtroom. You’d never known they had such a heated argument just the day before by how Layton warmly shook his hand.
“I trust you have considered what we discussed yesterday.”
Grant nodded. “Most definitely. Let’s go in. We don’t want to be late.”
They walked into the courtroom, where Olivia was already seated at counsel’s table. Beside her was Nina Marie, who was operating as the company representative today. Her expert Blake Sanchez sat in the first row of seats.
Grant’s stomach churned but he soldiered on. Doing the only thing he could do. He couldn’t even face Olivia. He took a seat at his table and waited for the judge to enter.
As the minutes ticked by, Grant’s palms got sweaty. He wiped his brow and took a few deep breaths as Judge Wingfield took the bench.
“Good morning, everyone. I’m ready to hear arguments with regard to the authenticity of the email relied upon by Plaintiff in their motion for an emergency injunction.”
Grant stood. “Your Honor, may counsel approach the bench.”
“Yes, you may.”
Grant didn’t even look over at Layton although he could feel his evil stare.
“What is it?” Judge Wingfield asked.
Grant and Olivia stood in front of the judge.
“Your Honor, I’m going to be filing a motion to withdraw from the case. As you will hear today, the evidence relied upon in the motion I filed with this court has been altered. Given those facts, I ask that you grant my motion to withdraw and stay this proceeding today until Optimism can retain new counsel.”
Olivia gasped, but didn’t say a word.
Judge Wingfield frowned deeply and crossed his arms. But he sat in silence for what felt like an hour, but what was probably only a minute.
“Don’t bother filing a written motion, Mr. Baxter. Your request for withdrawal is duly noted, but I deny it. You got yourself into this mess, and now you’re stuck with it.”
“Your Honor, given the circumstances, I would ask you to reconsider.”
“You should’ve thought this out before you put fabricated evidence before me and wasted everyone’s time on an emergency injunction. You just ought to be glad I’m not outright sanctioning you right now. You know better, Mr. Baxter,” he chided.
It stung. Being rebuked like that by the judge. But could Grant really blame him? He’d really gotten himself into a mess and there was no way out.
“Just so we have a clear record, I’d like to proceed with the testimony today regarding the email,” the judge said. “I’m assuming you’re prepared to do that, Ms. Murray, as I see your expert is here today?”
“Yes, Your Honor. I’m prepared to move forward.”
“And Mr. Baxter, your expert is here as well?”
“Yes, Your Honor.” Although it was probably a losing battle to even try to call his expert to the stand.
The judge nodded. “Good, then let’s get to it.”
Grant felt his shoulders slump as he walked back to his counsel’s table. Layton leaned over and spoke in his ear. “I see that went well. Looks like you’re stuck with me regardless, huh?”
Grant didn’t even respond. The judge had refused to rel
ease him from the case. That meant, regardless of what he wanted, he had no basis to withdraw. Not if the judge wouldn’t allow it.
Grant didn’t know if he could make it through the hearing, but he put on his best professional face. He even tried his best to argue that while both experts agreed the email was altered, that there was no proof that anyone associated with his client did it. It was probably a losing battle, but that’s the only play he had to make.
It was obvious from the rolling of Judge Wingfield’s eyes that he had really gotten on the judge’s bad side. But just as Olivia was about to start speaking, the judge stopped her.
“I’m sorry.” He gripped his chest. “I’m having chest pains.” He was holding onto his chest. “Can’t breathe.”
That sent the courtroom into a complete frenzy. The court clerk yelled to the bailiff who was radioing out asking for an ambulance ASAP for the judge. Then the bailiff ran over to the judge.
Grant stood stunned and then he looked back at Layton who had the faintest smile across his lips. Was it possible that Layton was somehow responsible for this? At this point, Grant knew the man was evil. The question was whether he actually had any spiritual powers that could’ve really harmed the judge.
The paramedics came in and removed Judge Wingfield on a stretcher. The clerk walked back over toward Grant.
“Counselors, obviously we’re going to have to reschedule this hearing.”
“Of course,” Grant said.
Olivia nodded.
“I’m going to check on the judge,” the clerk said. “You’ll hear from my office soon with details.” The clerk held back tears as it was clear she was worried about her boss’s health.
Grant turned around and Layton was already walking out of the courtroom. He wasn’t in the mood to talk to him.
Grant gathered up his stuff. Olivia walked over to the table.
“We should talk once I get done with Nina Marie.”
He nodded, feeling totally defeated on every level.
Grant waited outside the courthouse sitting on a bench in the sun, trying to process everything that had just occurred. Maybe it was time for a second prayer attempt? Because one wasn’t going to get the job done if what had just transpired was any indication of how things were going to go.
God, it’s me again. Still trying to figure out this praying thing, but I realize that if You’re God You saw what just happened in there. I was trying to do the right thing. The legal and ethical thing and the judge just wasn’t having it. I do hope the judge is all right, though. I’d never want anything to happen to him. And, God, if Layton was responsible then I feel even worse. What can I, as one man, do against a monster like that?
He put his head in his hands and leaned over. Feeling utterly helpless and alone.
“Grant.”
He recognized Olivia’s voice.
She sat down beside him on the bench. “I don’t even know where to start.”
“Me either. Olivia, I feel like I’m in the middle of a nightmare right now. You heard the judge. I’m stuck with this for the duration. I don’t know if I’ll make it through a trial.”
She reached over and patted his arm. “Yes, you will. The sooner the better. Then you can put this all behind you and move on.”
“If what happened in there today was any indication, then we both know how this all will play out.”
“Don’t even think about it right now. There’s nothing you can do.”
“Easy for you to say,” he snapped.
“I know you’re upset. I’ll go now. If you want to talk later you know where to find me. I hope you’ll also consider going to church again on Sunday.”
He didn’t respond. Right now he just wanted to wallow.
She got up and left him sitting alone, and feeling more confused than ever.
Chapter Fourteen
Stacey had gone back and forth over what to wear to the social gathering at Layton’s house. She’d settled on a straight forward black dress that hit right above the knee. It wasn’t showy, but it was one of the nicest dresses she had. She never went to fancy dinner parties. The college parties she was used to were all low key and usually involved her wearing skinny jeans and a tank top.
She’d considered everything that Morena had said very carefully. While she didn’t plan on making any final decisions until after the party, she knew which way she was leaning. There was just no way she could turn down the scholarship offer.
She wasn’t an idiot and knew there were strings attached. But at this point, she figured she could live with it. How crazy could Layton’s friends really be?
Well, she was about to find out. As she stood outside his front door, she took a few deep breaths before she pushed the doorbell. It really wasn’t a house. It was a mansion. She’d never seen anything quite like it, and she was convinced that the inside would be even better.
She could have it all one day if she stuck to this path. So much more than her family had ever had before. The brick multi story mansion literally took her breath away. She couldn’t wait to see the inside of it.
She pushed the doorbell and waited. It was only a minute before the door opened. Layton stood on the other side smiling broadly. He looked amazing tonight wearing a tailored blue suit and striped tie.
His eyes trailed down her body, and she immediately became self-conscious. Hoping that her dress was nice enough for his fancy party.
“Stacey, you look lovely. Please come into my home.”
“I wasn’t sure what to wear.” She fiddled with the hem of her dress as she smoothed it down.
“No worries. You look ravishing.”
He ushered her through the foyer and into a large living room that opened into an even larger dining area. The formal dining room was unlike anything she’d ever seen. A huge crystal chandelier dangled down sending shimmering rays of light across the room. The dark hardwood floors were pristine. The fine china that was set out on the large tables had to have cost a fortune. Everything screamed rich and extravagant.
“We’re having a bit of a cocktail hour right now before dinner. Feel free to roam about the house. Most people will be on the main floor, but you’re welcome to look around.”
“Layton, this house is gorgeous. It’s literally taking my breath away.”
He smiled. “It’s amazing what one can do with money and a top notch interior designer.”
She took a moment to continue to take it all in. The living room was furnished with another opulent looking chandelier, and oil paintings hung on the walls. The room was filled with plush chairs and two large white sofas. She almost cringed as she watched someone drink red wine while sitting on the white sofa.
Her eyes met with Morena’s who was walking her way. Morena looked absolutely like a model tonight. She wore a long red dress with a huge slit up the leg. Stacey felt totally inadequate in her simple black dress. But there was nothing she could do about it now.
Even more impressive were the jewels around Morena’s neck. There had to be thousands of dollars of diamonds between the necklace and large dangling earrings.
“I’m so glad you decided to come to the party,” Morena said. Morena took her arms and looked at her. “Don’t you look nice this evening.”
“I’m sorry. I feel a bit underdressed. But honestly this is one of the nicest dresses I have.”
Morena shook her head. “You look beautiful, and you know what? I’m sure Layton would approve of a clothing budget for you. I’d love to take you shopping for a few things to wear to events like this. That is, if you’re going to be taking him up on his offer.”
“Thanks again for the opportunity. I’d like to give you my answer on Monday if that’s okay?”
“Most definitely. Try to relax and have a good time tonight. Why don’t you get a glass of wine and try to unwind?”
“I’m only twenty.”
Morena laughed. “There’s no one who is going to be carding you here, Stace. Come on, let’s get you a drin
k.”
Stacey wasn’t a drinker. Yeah, she’d been to college parties, but drinking just wasn’t her thing. The community college scene actually had a lot more parties than she’d expected, but generally she preferred to hang out in smaller groups.
But when Morena handed her the glass she took it.
“What is this?”
“A flute of champagne. I think there’s going to be a lot of celebrating tonight.”
“About what?”
“Just stay tuned and you’ll hear all about it.” Morena grabbed her hand. “I’m so glad you’re here. It’s an exciting time for Optimism and things are only going to get better.”
Stacey tentatively sipped the champagne. She had to be careful not to drink too quickly, or she would be a goner in no time.
But after the cocktail hour and a long dinner that included wine, she was really starting to feel it. The guests gathered after dessert in the living room area with Layton standing at the front of the room commanding everyone’s attention.
“I’m so glad all of you could make it tonight. What I originally had envisioned as a low key dinner party was amped up quite a bit by a few events that I’d like to share with everyone.”
Stacey’s mind wandered thinking about what could have changed the tenor of the gathering to one of celebration. It made her wonder if something had happened with the lawsuit that she wasn’t privy to.
“I haven’t had the opportunity to share the news with all of you so I’ll do it now. The first piece of news is that the CEO of Astral Tech, Clive Township, has passed away. I hear that it was pancreatic cancer.”
The energy in the room shifted. Stacey could feel it as people started talking amongst themselves.
