Judge Simmons leaned forward over his raised desk, his dark eyes fixed on my father.

“You signed a commercial option contract with Apex Development while claiming abandonment in this courtroom?” Judge Simmons asked.

“It was preliminary,” my father’s attorney broke in, stepping toward the center aisle.

“A non-binding inquiry to explore future family estate options.”

“Sit down, counselor,” Judge Simmons said, his gravelly voice flat and dangerous.

Daniel turned back toward the gallery benches and raised his hand slightly.

“Your Honor,” Daniel said, “we ask the court to examine the sealed document retrieved from city tax vault locker four by clerk Clara Potts this morning.”