Carl Gable walked in carrying his worn leather briefcase.

Howard Finch followed close behind him, wearing his old brown deputy’s jacket with the frayed collar.

A uniformed county court officer stepped in last.

He stood directly in front of the doorway with his hands resting on his utility belt.

Mark stood up fast.

His heavy chair scraped loudly against the carpet.

“Arthur, what is this?” Mark asked.

He looked at Carl, then at the uniformed officer blocking the exit.