The Judge's Verdict
My voice turned icy.
"According to court regulations, judicial personnel are prohibited from privately contacting parties involved in cases they are handling, as well as their relatives and other related individuals. If you have something to say, submit a formal request through the proper legal channels."
The smile vanished from "Florence's" face, and she dropped the act entirely.
"Judge Hart, let's stop pretending and speak honestly. There's enough money in that container for you to live comfortably for the rest of your life.
"And if money isn't what you want, I can offer other things. A bright future, for example.