Travis Sherman had it made. He had just finished high school, with all honors, and his mom had just bought him a new car to celebrate. He was one of the most popular guys in school, the ace of the school basketball team, and had colleges offering him scholarships. His childhood crush looked like she was starting to like him too as well. Everything looked like it was going in Travis's favor, until the day the college semester began.

"Travis, pass me the rolls."

Travis put down his fork and handed his little sister, Mary, the plate of rolls. "Here ya go."

Mary took two rolls from the plate and picked up her knife. Travis's mom took a spoonful of soup from the bowl and slurped it. "So, your first day of college is tomorrow. Are you prepared?"

"Yes Mom! I am!"

"You have your books in your backpack?"

"Yes."

"Notebooks?"

"Yes."

"Pens and pencils?"

"Yes and yes!"

Travis's mom grinned. "That's my boy. Your father would be proud to see you go off to college. Too bad he was just a tad short…"

Travis's mom gazed off into the distance, her eyes watering up. Before Travis could respond, his little brother, Jared, spoke up. "It was too bad he died in a car accident a year ago, but do you think he would still want us to mourn for him after so long? Knowing him, he would want us to be happy and live the rest of our lives. He would feel guilty he caused you so much pain."

Travis put his spoon in his soup and gulped down a spoonful. Soon, he stood up. "Well, I'm gonna head to my room for some last minute anime watching. I have to finish just three more episodes before tomorrow."

Mary snickered. "That's all you do Travis! If Natalie knew what you were doing, she would probably dump you in a second!"

Travis turned back and faced Mary. "W—we're not dating!"

Mary burst into laughter. "Just wait Travis! I'll be sure to tell her when you officially introduce her to us."

"Mary!"

Everyone started laughing, with the exception of Travis. Travis turned bright red and dashed up the stairs. "Shut up Mary!"

Travis closed the door to his room and turned on his laptop. Going to his bookmarks, Travis clicked on the link and started watching the anime.

The anime was just finishing up when Travis heard a knock on the door. "Come in."

The door opened, revealing Travis's mom. "Just wanted to let you know I'm taking Mary to her karate practice tonight. You want to come?"

"Not this time Mom. I was just thinking about watching TV or something for the rest of the night. It's my last night to laze around after all."

Travis's mom smiled slightly and started closing the door. Just remember, you can't have that attitude when college starts."

"I know mom!"

"Okay. We'll be off. Jared is coming with us as well. If we're not back by the time you go to bed, just want to say good night and good luck tomorrow."

"Thanks Mom. See you tomorrow."

"Love you."

"Love you too."

Travis's mom closed the door. Travis finished the remainder of the episode and closed his laptop. After a few hours watching TV, Travis brushed his teeth and went to sleep.

The alarm pierced the silence. Travis flinched his arm and hit his alarm clock, silencing it. Getting up and stretching, Travis stepped out of bed and yawned. "Well…today's the day college begins…"

Travis went to his closet and picked out his outfit for the day. Taking a shower, Travis rushed back into his room and made sure he had everything in his backpack. Soon, Travis was downstairs eating a quick breakfast. Travis's mom came out of her room, wearing a robe. "So today's the big day."

"Yeah…"

"Everything ready?"

"Yup, just double checked."

Travis's mom smiled. "I'm so proud of you Travis."

Travis had just taken the final bite of his breakfast. "Thanks mom."

Rinsing his dishes, Travis slipped on his shoes and put his wallet and phone in his pockets. Taking his keys from the counter, Travis walked over to the door. "I'm going to talk to the coach after classes so he can tell me when practices are. I'll be a few minutes later then."

"Okay Travis. See you later! Love you!"

"Love you too!"

Travis dashed out of the house and into his car. Travis was soon driving down the road to college. Parking in the closest available spot, Travis took his backpack from his car and started walking toward the university buildings. "Okay…my first class is in…B 214…" Soon, Travis was walking into the classroom and sitting down. A ragged old man soon walked into the room, clearing his throat. "Alright everyone. I'm going to be your professor for basic math this semester. I hope you are prepared to learn everything you can to help better yourselves, and society as well." Soon, the professor started rambling about the syllabus. Eventually, the teacher looked at the clock. "Alright everyone, that covers the syllabus. On Wednesday we'll be covering chapter one, so be sure to brush up on it before then."

Travis dashed out the door and looked at his schedule again. "Alright, C 108. Just gotta get through this, talk to coach, and get out of here!"

Soon, Travis had suffered through that class as well. After walking to the athletic department and talking to the coach, Travis rushed to his car and drove his way home. Taking the key out of the ignition, Travis grabbed his backpack and walked up to the front door, to see that it was slightly cracked. I wonder why Mom has it cracked like that. Opening the door, Travis shouted, "I'm home Mom!" There was no response, just an eerie silence. "Mom? You here?"

Walking forward, Travis looked into the kitchen and towards the living room, not to see her. "Mom!"

Walking along the path to her bedroom, Travis started smelling a smell he hadn't smelt since his dad had died. "Is that…blood?!"

Charging into his mom's room, Travis looked around. Travis gasped when he found her. With a pool of blood around her, Travis's mom lay on the floor, motionless. "Mom!"

Running forward, kneeled by her and felt her pulse, only to find nothing. "Mom…MOM!"

Travis started crying, harder than any time he had in the past. I—I gotta call the police!

Travis stood up and took his cell phone out when he heard something behind him. Looking back he saw a masked man charge him, knocking him to the ground. Travis's phone slid away from him. As Travis was about to shove the man off of him, The man hit Travis's head with the butt of a handgun, knocking him unconscious.

When Travis awoke, he was lying in a hospital bed. "Where…am I?"

Looking around, Travis saw a police officer sitting on a chair, staring at Travis. "Ah, you're finally awake."

"Who are you?"

"Officer Jerry Holmes. I'm here to make sure you don't escape."

"What do you mean?"

"Don't give me that crap. You know what I'm talking about?"

"I don't know what you're talking about!"

"You killed your own mother idiot! I'm here to make sure you don't escape custody!"

"Y—you think I killed my own mom?!" Travis's eyes started welling with tears. "I didn't do a thing to her! I was the one who discovered her body!"

"Just save it for the judge. You'll be out by the end of the day. Enjoy your last few hours of comfort while you still have it. Things are going to be very different for you in prison."

But…I didn't kill her!

2: Chapter 2

Travis was led into the courtroom, under heavy guard, handcuffed. It had been a week since his mother had been murdered, and it was time for his trial. The only attorney who would defend him was a state assigned attorney, who, although he believed Travis was innocent, was completely ill-equipped for the job. After being forced down onto a chair by the guard, Travis waited for the judge to come out.

He didn't have to wait long. Soon, the judge came out from his chambers, and sat down in his seat. Everyone in the courtroom, except Travis, stood when he entered. "Court is now in session for the trial of Travis Sherman."

A younger looking prosecutor stared at the judge. "The prosecution…is ready, your honor."

Travis's attorney, Lewis Fulligan, gulped. "The…defense i—is ready…your honor."

The judge looked at the prosecutor. "Mr. John Eerest, was it?"

"Yes, your honor?"

"I understand this is your first trial. Are you prepared?"

"I am, your honor."

"Good. Then you may begin with your opening statement."

The prosecutor left his desk, and looked at the audience. "Members of this prestigious court, today, we are in the middle of determining whether or not Travis Sherman murdered his own mother. It happened a week ago, to this day. We received a call from a neighbor, who noticed that the front door to their house, was wide open. Ringing the doorbell, he didn't receive an answer. Being the good Samaritan that he is, he entered the house, only to find this ghastly scene."

The prosecutor took out a photo of the crime scene. "This is the prosecution's first piece of evidence. You can clearly see the three stab wounds to the chest. The first two killed her. The last one, was post-mortem."

The judge shook his head. "The court accepts this into evidence."

"While investigating, the police managed to scrape up a few decisive pieces of evidence."

The judge was shocked. "Decisive? Already?"

"Yes. The first, is the murder weapon itself. It's an ordinary steak knife. Sharp, so you can cut the meat of the steak, but this time, cut through human flesh."

The judge furrowed his eyebrows. "What makes this decisive evidence?"

"Two things, your honor. First, it was from the victim's kitchen."

"Her kitchen?"

"Yes. We found matching knives in a set there. We believe the defendant, in an angry fury, took the knife, and did his work."

"OBJECTION!" Lewis slammed on his desk. "You have no proof my client took that knife from—"

"OBJECTION!" John shook his head. "You wouldn't let me get to my second point with the knife."

"Hng…"

"My second point is this…the defendant's bloody fingerprints were on the knife itself!"

The crowd burst into chatter. Soon, they were silent, as the judge banged his gavel. "Order! Mr. Everest, I would like you to submit that evidence at once!"

"As you wish, your honor."

Soon, the judge was staring at the report. "Indeed…the defendant's right hand fingerprints are on the knife…"

"OBJECTION!"

Lewis shook his head. "You've dug your own grave, Mr. Prosecutor."

"…what do you mean?"

"If you would have read the report thoroughly, my client's dominant hand is his left hand! Why would he stab someone not using his dominant hand?!"

"…Mr. Sherman, was it?"

Travis's head bobbed. "Y—yes?"

"Is what your attorney said true?"

"Yes it is. I'm left handed."

John shook his head. "Very well then. Your honor, let me present another piece of evidence to the court."

"Certainly, Mr. Everest."

John cleared his throat. "As you have heard from the defendant himself, he is indeed, left handed. As proof, we have bloody fingerprints on the door leading into the bedroom…from the defendant's left hand."

Lewis was stunned. "His…left hand?"

"Yes. I was confused why he used his left hand to open the door, but then use his right hand to stab the victim. However, it all makes perfect sense. The kitchen containing the knives is to the right when you enter the house. Now, why use his right hand when he is left handed? It was a matter of convenience."

The judge looked at John, confused. "Convenience?"

"Yes. When Travis went in to grab the knife, it was easier to grab the knife with his right hand. The victim, probably tried to barricade herself in her bedroom. However, with most of his strength in his dominant hand, the left hand, he was able to open the door."

"OBJECTION! Mr. Everest, there is a blatant contradiction in your theory."

"What is this 'contradiction' you speak of?"

"You clearly stated that the fingerprints were bloody. However, according to your version of events, Travis opened the door…before he killed the victim. Where did the blood come from?"

"…"

"Your honor, you can't believe Mr. Everest's version of—"

"OBJECTION!" John shook his head. "When will you learn to let me finish what I was going to say? Your honor, I want to call a witness to the stand, one who will shed light onto this matter."

The judge shook his head. "Very well, please summon your witness."

Soon, an elderly gentleman walked to the witness stand. "Name and occupation."

"My name is Mike Stefenson. I'm retired…"

"Mr. Stefenson, you were the one who discovered the crime scene, correct?"

"Yes I did…"

"Care to tell us what you saw?"

"Certainly boy."

"I noticed the door to my neighbor's house was open. After not receiving an answer after ringing the doorbell, I walked inside. I heard some footsteps to the left of me and looked that way. I saw a man around Travis's height rush into the bedroom."

The judge furrowed his eyebrow. "How does this pertain to the bloody fingerprints?"

"Witness…when did you enter the house?"

"Why…it was around one thirty."

John shook his head. "Thank you. Now, the time of death is around one twenty five. That means he saw this figure…AFTER the victim had been murdered."

Lewis stood up from his chair, not knowing what to say. The judge frowned. "So, since the defendant's fingerprints were there, the logical conclusion is to say that he put them there…after he killed his mother."

"Exactly."

The judge shook his head. "Mr. Fulligan…you may commence your cross-examination."

"Y—yes, your honor."

""I noticed the door to my neighbor's house was open—"

"Stop! What were you doing when you discovered the door open?"

"I was watering my flowers. I started around one. The only one to enter the front door was that boy Travis."

"No one else came through?"

"No. In fact…it was around the time of death when Travis arrived."

"W—WHAT?!"

The judge banged is gavel. "Mr. Fulligan, we can hear you ya know! Anyways, this is crucial information."

John shook his head. "Though I don't know the motive, Travis arrived right before the victim was killed…"

Lewis looked at Travis. "Do you remember Mr. Stefenson out there when you came back?"

"…I do vaguely remember it. He's always out there on Mondays watering his flowers, so I don't pay much attention."

John smiled. "Confirming the fact that Mr. Sefenson was there that day. Anyways, please continue witness."

"After not receiving an answer after ringing the doorbell, I walked inside—"

"Stop! Why did you ring the doorbell? It was a crime scene after all."

"I didn't know there was a murder in there! I rang the doorbell to get their attention."

"Ungh…" He is correct…there is no way he could have known what went on…

John shook his head. "Are you sure you are up for this task, Mr. Fulligan?"

"I—I am!"

"Then don't ask such obvious questions then. Anyways, proceed witness."

"I heard some footsteps to the left of me and looked that way—"

"Stop! About how far into the house were you when you heard the footsetps?"

"Hmm…right next to the kitchen."

"Did you see anything unusual in the kitchen?"

"OBJECTION!" John shook his head. "The witness clearly stated he looked 'left.' The kitchen is on the right."

"Now wait right there sonny!"

John was slightly surprised. "What is it witness?"

"I was looking at the kitchen when I heard the footsteps!"

"Y—you what?!"

"However…I didn't see anything suspicious, except a knife was missing from the set…"

The murder weapon…

John shook his head. "I apologize, Mr. Fulligan. Now, please continue witness."

"I saw a man around Travis's height rush into the bedroom—"

"Stop! Did you happen to see the man's face?"

"…no, not really. However, when he rushed into the bedroom, he had his left hand on the door knob."

"H—he what?!"

"I remember it clearly, his hand was on the door knob!"

John smiled. "And there you have it. The mystery of the fingerprints has been answered. The mysterious figure had his hand on the doorknob…the only fingerprints on the door knob was the defendant's…"

The judge shook his head. "That would mean the figure was the defendant."

The crowd was murmuring. Lewis tried not to listen to their cries of a guilty verdict. "Y—you sure you saw the hand on the doorknob?"

"I am."

John shook his head. "If the fingerprints were bloody, from the victim's blood, that would mean that Travis is the culprit."

Lewis slammed on his desk. "You didn't see anyone else in that room?"

"No."

"That's not true!"

Everyone looked past Lewis at Travis. "Someone else was in that room! He knocked me unconscious!"

The judge banged his gavel. "Defendant! You will be silent when—"

"I will not be quiet! My future is on the line! I have the wound on my head even still. It cut my head and had to be stitched up!"

The judge looked at John. "Is this true?"

"…it is true that Travis has a wound on his head, on the left of his head. However, I would like to thank him for bringing that into light."

"W—what do you mean?"

"Your honor, the prosecution has one last piece of evidence."

"O—one more piece of evidence?!"

"Yes." John took out another photograph. "Look at the bed frame. Notice how it has elongated poles on each corner."

"Yes…but…wait…why is the bottom right one…"

John smiled. "You have good eyes, your honor. The bed post has been damaged. Now, considering where Travis was lying…"

John took out one more photograph. "Here is where we found the defendant lying."

"Why…it's right next to the bed post!"

Travis gasped. "You—you're wrong!"

"How am I wrong, Travis? The wound on your head matches perfectly with the bed post. I assume you knocked yourself unconscious to try to fool the witness here, but it didn't work."

Mr. Stefenson nodded. "That's right! I heard a crash right before I entered the room! It sounded like the bed post broke!"

John smirked. "And there you have it. That's what transpired that day."

Lewis stared at John. Why can't I object?! Why can't I think of anything!?

John smiled. "The prosecution…rests."

The judge shook his head. "Does the defense have any counter arguments?"

Lewis stood there, unable to speak. Finally, Lewis was able to utter just three words. "The defense…rests."

Travis quickly turned his head over to Lewis. "N—No! You can't give up now!"

John slammed on his desk. "It's already been proven, Travis. All the evidence points to it. The reason your attorney can't fight anymore is because he can't fight the truth any longer."

"What you say isn't the truth!"

"Enough! Your honor, please hand out the verdict."

The judge shook his head. "Mr. Travis Sherman, the court has come to a conclusion. One week ago, today, you ruthlessly attacked and murdered your own mother. The court finds Travis Sherman…guilty of murder. Sentencing will be tomorrow. That is all, court is adjourned."

The judge banged his gavel, but to Travis, the bang meant the end of the life he had dreamed of. The next few days quickly passed. He was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole in twenty five years. Everyone in the courtroom cheered. The judge cleared his throat. "Hopefully when you're older, you'll realize what you've done and become a productive member of society. Until then, to protect everyone else from your violence, you will be in prison."

Soon, Travis was moved from his cell in the police station to a maximum security prison, not before being visited by Jared and Mary, disowning him. "You killed Mom!" Jared cried out. "Why?! Why did you do that?!"

"It wasn't me Jared! Please trust me!"

Mary wiped her face. "Travis…just…stop lying to us! Tell us the truth!"

"I am! I'm telling the truth!"

Jared and got up and stormed out. Mary sniffled and turned back. "I guess…I lost more than just my mother this week…"

3: Chapter 3

Travis shot a basketball into an old basketball hoop. It had been four years since his trial, and, like he thought, no one came to visit him. Travis picked up the basketball and shot it again. Thank goodness I still have an hour of free time outside…

Travis was about to shoot again when he heard footsteps behind him. Looking back, he saw a security guard walking up to him. “Mr. Sherman, you have a visitor. Please come with me.”

A visitor?

*The day before*

Miranda Veal was speeding through the highway, trying to get to work on time. “Great…I oversleep on my first day of work! Perfect! Just perfect!”

Miranda finally made it into the parking lot of a law firm. Rushing in, she sped walked into her boss’s office. “Sorry for my slight tardiness sir!”

Her boss sighed. “You didn’t make a good first impression Ms. Veal.”

“I—I’m sorry sir…”

“Anyways, enough with that. I actually have a special assignment for you today.”

“Special?”

“Yes. You see, one of our defense attorneys just passed away a week ago. I want you to clean out his files. There was a high profile case he once did two years ago, and I’m curious to see how he handled it.”

“Handled it?”

“The prosecutor for the case claims he did some shady stuff to get his client a not guilty verdict. He has requested to see the documents referring to the case. He should be here in a couple hours, so I need those files as soon as possible.”

“I’m on it sir! Just where was his office?”

Miranda’s boss pointed her to an office in the corner of the building. “This must be it…”

Opening the door to the office, the smell of stale cigarette smoke hit her nostrils. “Man…talk about a heavy smoker.”

Going to his filing cabinet, Miranda opened it. “Well…not too many cases…should be easy to find.”

Miranda looked through folders. “Let’s see…solved…solved…solved…”

Miranda finally found the folder she was looking for. Taking it out, she was about to head out of the office when another file caught her attention. Miranda walked over. “Hmm…it seems he crossed out solved in this folder…”

Opening the folder, the picture of a woman stabbed in the chest appeared. “Whoa…”

She closed the folder and walked out of the office. “I already found it boss!”

“Good work Miranda.”

“Can I ask you something?” Miranda asked as she handed the folder to her boss.

“What is it?”

“I spotted a folder on the desk in the office, that originally said ‘solved’ but was crossed out.”

“Hmmm…can you bring me that folder?”

Miranda shook her head, brought the folder in, and gave it to her boss. Opening it, he shook his head. “I remember this case…it was only his third trial.”

“What happened?”

“A college student was charged of killing his own mother. He firmly believed he was innocent, but failed to prove it in court. Actually, he was dominated in court. Didn’t even last a day. Anyways, he always beat himself up for it and was always investigating in his free time. By the looks of it…he didn’t get far.”

Miranda shook her head. “I see…do you have any other tasks for me?”

“Right now, no.”

“May I take a look through the folder then?”

“Hm?”

“If that case was still important to him, four years later, we should at least look into it.”

“I see…very well then. You may look at it until I tell you otherwise.”

Miranda took the folder, shook her head, and left the office. “Wait, one more thing.”

“Hm?”

“The prosecutor who’s coming here…he was the prosecutor in that trial as well.”

“W-what?!”

“I’ll let you know when he gets here, so you can ask questions about that trial.”

“Thank you sir…”

Miranda walked away and went into her makeshift office. “Ah…the benefits of being the low woman on the totem pole…”

Miranda sat down in her lumpy chair and opened the case file. There she saw all the evidence presented at the trial, and a copy of the only testimony that was spoken. Flipping through, she saw the background of the defendant.

“Travis Sherman…eighteen years old…has two siblings…was a star high school basketball player who had a full scholarship for college…”

Flipping the page over, she saw scribbled notes all over the place. Most of them were unreadable, but the few she could read talked about bloody fingerprints. For the next couple hours, Miranda studied what happened during the trial, fascinating her. I read plenty of scenarios in law school…but this one…seems to have captured my attention…

After what seemed to be a few seconds for her, there was a knock on the door. A man dressed in a suit was at the door. “Ms. Veal, the boss would like to see you.”

“Already? I was just there.”

“Umm…you were there a couple hours ago.”

Miranda looked at the clock, to see that two hours had passed. “Wow…time went by fast.”

Miranda rushed out of her office. When she reached her boss’s she saw a brown-headed man standing in front of the desk. Her boss leaned slightly to the left and smiled. “Ah, there she is.”

The man turned around. “You must be Miranda Veal.”

“I am.”

“My name is John Everest. I was told you had a…fascination…for a trial four years ago.”

“Ah, yes. I was reading over the case file. Do you remember Travis Sherman?”

“Travis Sherman…ah, yes! He was convicted of killing his own mother.”

“Can you tell me about the case?”

“Sure. Although I may get a couple things wrong, considering it was four years ago. Anyways, an elderly gentleman noticed that the front door to the victim and defendant’s house was open. After trying to get their attention, he walked inside…and discovered the ghastly scene.”

For the next several minutes, John told Miranda about the case. Miranda finally spoke. “I do have a question though.”

“What is it?”

“The man saw the figure put his hand on the doorknob…was there anything on his hand like a glove?”

“…that…never got mentioned in the trial…so I honestly don’t know.”

“…that was a premature verdict then…”

“Huh?”

“Did you have any questions about whether or not there were gloves on his hands or not?”

“…”

“Please…tell the truth.”

“To be honest…the thought crossed my mind after the verdict had been decided…”

“Did you have any other doubts?”

“…..thank you again, Mr. Emmit for lending me the documents.”

John walked passed Miranda and walked out the door. Miranda stared out the door. “…that does it.”

Miranda’s boss looked at Miranda. “What do you mean?”

“Mr. Emmit…I officially request I be assigned to reinvestigate the case!”

“Huh?”

“There are too many questions left unanswered! The gloves…someone could have hit his head against the bedpost…the fingerprints…the fact that the witness didn’t see the figure’s face…everything! I request that I at least look at it one more time!”

“…I’ll grant you the request.”

4: Chapter 4

Miranda looked at a house in front of her, not sure what to do. This is the right address…but this is my first time interviewing someone…

Miranda sighed and rang the doorbell. After a few seconds, an elderly man appeared. "Hello? Who are you?"

"My name is Miranda Veal, a defense attorney. I want to ask you about the trial you were a witness of four years ago."

"…oh…you man the case with Travis Sherman?"

"Yes."

"I don't know why you want to ask me about it. That case was solved four years ago."

"The trial may not have been…fair. I'm going over all loose ends and trying to figure out if it requires a retrial."

"…come in."

Miranda stepped into the house and looked around. "Nice place."

"Thanks. May I interest you in some coffee or tea?"

"No thank you."

Miranda sat down on the couch. "So, your name is Mike Stefenson, correct?"

"Yes, you're correct."

Miranda took out the case report. "Mr. Stefenson, I want to ask you about your testimony during the trial. You said that you saw a figure when you looked to the left, touching the doorknob with his left hand, correct?"

"You are correct."

"Did you see any gloves on the hands?"

"…honestly…I'm not sure."

"You don't remember if he was wearing gloves?"

"No…"

"Hmm…were you sure testifying about it in court?"

"…"

"Mr. Stefenson, please answer me."

"…I…I don't know…"

"I see…anyways, one other question, did you see the figure's face?"

"No I didn't…"

For the next several minutes, Mr. Stefenson told Miranda about the trial.

"Mr. Stefenson, I'd like to thank you for your time."

"Sure thing, Miranda. However, I have a question for you now."

"Yes?"

"Are you going to be appealing the conviction?"

"…to be honest, a witness who wasn't sure about his testimony, especially concerning crucial parts of the trial, isn't a just reason to convict someone. I will be appealing."

Travis was looking around him, seeing walls he hadn't seen before. So this is what it feels like to have a visitor…

Travis was escorted to a metal door. A guard took out a key and opened it. Stepping inside, Travis saw a brunette woman on the other side of the glass. Who is she?

They escorted Travis to the phone on his side of the glass. Taking the phone, Travis spoke first. "Who are you?"

"My name is Miranda Veal. I'm a defense attorney?"

"An attorney eh? Why would an attorney visit an already convicted convict?"

"Because I'm here to tell you you're getting a retrial."

"…come again?"

"I work at the same law firm your previous defense attorney worked at. He recently passed away, but he had worked on a pretty important case once." Miranda told Travis about what had happened.

Travis shook his head. "I knew there were more questions to be asked…but, in a sense, I'm afraid you're too late."

"What do you mean?"

"The Travis from before is dead. In prison…you have to adapt, trust no one."

"Mr. Sherman, I want to tell you that you can trust me. I will exonerate you! I will get you out of here!"

"And what would I do then? I once had a promising career in basketball…I'm twenty two now…my time has passed for that."

"I don't know, but why would you want to be here for something you didn't do?"

"…"

"Mr. Sherman, you didn't kill your mother. I will prove that tomorrow!"

"Tomorrow?!"

"It was a stipulation for the retrial. There aren't many free judges, so the trial has to be tomorrow."

"…may I ask you something?"

"Sure."

"…why?"

"Why?"

"Why are you doing this? I never knew you before. My case is four years old, out of everyone's mind."

"…it's because this is the case he never figured out."

"He?"

"Your previous defense attorney. As I said before, he died, not too long ago. However, this is the only case he still wasn't satisfied with. For the past four years, he was trying to figure out the case, only to get nowhere. I feel like if he still had his doubts, then you must be innocent…I feel like I'm getting a head start too…"

"A head start?"

"…my brother was convicted of a murder too…however, I know he isn't guilty! I feel horrible that he is still in prison for a crime he didn't commit. That's the reason I became an attorney, to get him out."

"…I still don't completely trust you…but I'll allow you to defend me tomorrow."

"Thank you Mr. Sherman. I'll make sure you won't regret it!"

"…"

Travis hung up the phone and was escorted out of the room. Miranda sighed, wiping a tear from her eye.

Travis was back outside at the basketball hoop. However, he couldn't shoot the basketball. He was trying to wipe the tears from his eyes.

Miranda arrived back at the office. Sighing, she plopped down onto her chair. Taking out the case folder, she looked it over thoroughly once again. "I'm sorry Mr. Stefenson…but I'm going to have to tear your testimony apart."

John Everest was sitting at his desk in his office, sipping on some coffee. He had just received the news about the retrial, and, as expected, was asked to prosecute the case. Sighing, John picked up his copy of the case report. If that Miranda girl could think of things in a couple hours that you couldn't in four years…it's going to be an interesting trial tomorrow…

Miranda was sitting in the defendant's lobby, reading over the case file one last time. The entrance door to the lobby opened. Looking up, Miranda saw a guard usher Travis into the room. "Mr. Sherman!"

Travis looked up at Miranda. "Ms. Veal…"

"Did you get a good night's sleep?"

"Not really…"

Miranda sighed. "Well, just don't fall asleep during the trial!" Miranda gave Travis a half-smile.

Why is she so…hyper? However…this does bring back memories of the previous trial…

"So, are you confident you can win?"

Miranda shook her head. "I am!"

Hyper…and loud…

The bailiff from the courtroom came into the lobby. "Ms. Veal, the trial is going to begin soon. Please make your way to the defense attorney's desk."

Miranda shook her head. "Don't worry Travis. I'll make sure you're exonerated today."

Travis shook his head. "Just don't try to use the insanity plea."

Miranda chuckled. "Will do."

As she walked into the courtroom, Miranda smiled. At least he cracked a joke…instead of being so serious…

Miranda walked to her desk and sat down. Looking across from her, she saw Prosecutor Everest. So they asked him to prosecute this trial again…

Soon, the judge walked into the room. "All rise!"

Everyone stood up, again, with the exception of Travis. The judge banged his gavel. "Court is now in session for the retrial of Travis Sherman."

John sighed. "The prosecution is ready, your honor."

"The…um…defense…is ready, your honor."

Travis shook his head. She doesn't seem as confident as she was two seconds ago…

"Miranda Veal, was it?"

"Y—yes, your honor."

"If I were you, I'd calm down your nerves for the sake of your client. Anyways, Mr. Everest, you may begin with your opening statement."

"Yes, your honor." John walked in front of his desk. "Ladies and gentlemen, we are gathered today, to make sure, this man is guilty. As stated, four years ago, in a previous trial, this man, Travis Stutsman, killed his own mother. I am here, to prove it yet again."

The judge shook his head. "I assume you want to present the same evidence as before?"

"Yes, your honor."

John took out a photo of the crime scene. "My first piece of evidence. You can see the stab wounds on the victim's chest."

The judge shook his head. "The court accepts this into evidence."

Miranda looked at John. He's being a bit more fast paced than last trial…at least, from what I've read…

John took out a knife. "This is the murder weapon, kept all these years in a vault. It is the same as it was four years ago. It was from the victim's kitchen. Now, what makes this decisive evidence is that the defendant's bloody fingerprints are on the knife."

The judge shook his head. "The court accepts this into evidence."

John shook his head. "Now, before a certain lady objects, there is an explanation as to why the defendant's right hand fingerprints are on the knife, when he is indeed, left handed."

The judge shook his head. "Please give us your explanation then."

"Rather than I explain it, let my witness explain it for you."

The judge nodded. "You may call your witness."

"The prosecution calls Mike Stefenson to the stand!"

Mike slowly walked up to the witness stand. "Name and occupation witness."

"Mike Stefenson…I'm retired."

"Mr. Stefenson, I'm sorry I have to put you through this once more, but can you please tell the court what happened that day?"

"Yes sir."

Miranda took a deep breath. Here it is! Time to blow this testimony wide open!

"I was watering my flowers when Travis came home from college. He entered the house quickly once he got home. A couple minutes later, I saw he had left the door open. Walking over, I rang the doorbell, but didn't get a response. Walking inside, I looked at the kitchen to the right, and heard footsteps to the left. Looking over, I saw a figure of a man rush into the bedroom, his hand touching the doorknob."

John shook his head. "You were a lot more thorough than last trial. I commend you for that."

The judge banged his gavel. "Ms. Veal, your cross-examination please."

Miranda shook her head. I need to question his concerning a few things…but I should get all the info I can get for right now…

"I was watering my flowers when Travis came home from college—"

"Hold on! I read from the case report that you usually water your flowers during the afternoon, correct?"

"Yes."

"So it was the same for that day too?"

"That is correct."

John shook his head. "We already went through this last trial."

"OBJECTION! I need to make sure what I read before was correct! If I don't know all the information, I can't properly defend my client!"

John scoffed and shook his head. "I will tell you one thing, you are much more…feisty…than Mr. Fulligan. Anyways, please continue witness."

"He entered the house quickly once he got home—"

"Hold on! What do you mean by that?"

"Well, usually, it takes Travis around ten seconds to unlock the door. However, this time, he stopped for a second, then ran in."

This…could be important…I should keep this in mind later…

"A couple minutes later, I saw he had left the door open—"

"Hold on! You didn't notice it until a couple minutes later?"

"Yes. I was in my backyard for a couple minutes refilling my watering bin. When I went back out to the front, I saw the door was wide open."

"OBJECTION!"

Everyone looked at Miranda. "Mr. Stefenson, may I ask you something?"

"Yes?"

"How good is your hearing?"

"I can still hear perfectly."

"Hm…I see…"

John slammed on his desk. "What was the meaning of that 'objection' Ms. Veal?"

"It's something that you have to think about for a while, but once it hits you, you can't believe you missed it before."

"What is it?"

"Ordinarily, when a person is going to be stabbed, they scream. Now, since the door was wide open, you would expect to hear a scream."

John stared at Miranda. "What are you implying?"

"I'm saying if the murder happened when Travis arrived, with the door wide open…"

Miranda pointed at Mike. "Mr. Stefenson would have heard the altercation!"

The crowd burst into chatter.

"She's right! He would have at least heard something!"

The judge banged his gavel. "Order! Order! Ms. Veal, this wasn't discussed in the previous trial.."

"I know. That puts into question exactly when the crime took place."

"OBJECTION!" John slammed on his desk. "The witness already stated that he went into his backyard for a couple minutes! He may not have heard it from there!"

"OBJECTION! His back yard is still outside! He would still be able to hear something!"

"Ngh…"

The judge slammed his gavel. "It appears the time of the crime may be different than what we originally thought."

John sighed. "Hmph, no matter. That's just one trivial matter."

Miranda slammed on her desk. "Trivial? The court is no longer sure the crime occurred when he got home!"

John sighed. "I'll deal with that later. For now, there is more testimony to be heard."

The judge nodded. "Agreed. Let's listen to the rest of his testimony."

Miranda shook her head. "Very well." I at least found something to grasp onto. Even if the rest of the cross-examination doesn't go my way…we still have to look into this!

"Walking over, I rang the doorbell, but didn't get a response—"

"Hold on! So you ringing the doorbell was you trying to get their attention?"

"Yes. I was unaware of what had happened, so, trying to be a good neighbor, tried to let them know the door was open."

"I see…"

John looked at Mike. "You may continue with your testimony."

"Walking inside, I looked at the kitchen to the right—"

"Hold on! Why look into the kitchen?"

"Well, you see, Travis's mom always seemed to be baking something, so I thought she would be in there. I didn't see anyone there. However, I did notice there was a steak knife missing."

He said that in the previous trial too. It must have been the murder weapon.

"Mr. Everest?"

"Yes?"

"Do you have a picture of the kitchen from that day?"

"…I do. After all, the murder weapon was taken from there."

The judge banged his gavel. "Please present the photo as evidence!"

John took out a photo. "Here you go."

Miranda took a look at the photo, noticing the missing knife from the set.

Wait a minute…

Miranda took out the photo of Travis's mom's body. "OBJECTION!"

John sighed. "What is it this time Miranda?"

"Your honor, we may have an important piece of evidence completely wrong!"

"W—what do you mean, Ms. Veal?"

Miranda pointed to the picture of the kitchen. "Your honor, I'm sure you've noticed by now the missing knife from the set."

"Yes I have. It's hard NOT to see it."

"Notice how bit the hold to insert the knife is."

"Hmmm…"

Miranda then showed the crime scene photo. "Now, take a look to the stab wounds on the victim's body."

"Hmmm…! D—do you mean!?"

"Yes."

Miranda slammed on her desk. "The wounds on the body are bigger than the hole holding the knife in the kitchen!"

John was taken aback. "W—WHAT!?"

"It's quite clear. The knife you claim to be the murder weapon, wasn't indeed the murder weapon. May I see the knife?"

The bailiff went and grabbed the knife and handed it to Miranda. "Looking at the knife, you can see it's rather slim, not as wide as the knife wounds in her body!"

The crowd burst into chatter once more. "She's right again! That knife couldn't have killed her!"

"Was Travis's first trial really unfair after all?"

"OBJECTION!" John slammed on his desk. "Ms. Veal…how does that change anything?"

"It changes a lot of things! The 'bloody fingerprints' on this knife, is just a fabrication!"

"F—fabrication!? I didn't do a thing to them!"

"I know you didn't. However, I'm sure who did."

"W—who? Who fabricated the knife!?"

"The real killer!"

John gasped. "I—it…no, that's not it!"

"Why isn't it? Your honor, may I give my version of events to the court?"

"Yes you may."

"Travis returned from his first day of college. For some unknown reason, he was able to quickly go inside his house. Looking for his mother, he went into the bedroom, where he discovered the crime scene. He got into a scuffle with the murderer, who knocked him unconscious. Once unconscious, The killer was able to fabricate this knife!"

The crowd burst into chatter. "She has a point…that could have happened!"

"OBJECTION!" John slammed on his desk again. "If that were the case, then we would have seen his fingerprints on the knife as well! The police could find no such thing!"

"Which brings me to my next point. Why aren't there any fingerprints on the knife? The answer is actually quite simple."

John started breathing a bit heavier. "What is this 'answer'?"

"The real killer was wearing gloves!"

"WHAT?!"

"Think about it, that's why you weren't able to find his fingerprints. They were hiding underneath the gloves!"

"OBJECTION! That's not correct! The witness stated that he saw a 'hand' touch the doorknob! Not a glove!"

"OBJECTION! I spoke with him two days ago! He wasn't sure if he was wearing gloves or not!"

"Is this true witness?!"

"…yes, it's true…"

"Grgh…this…this can't be happening!"

"Your honor, why stop there? Why only fabricate one piece of evidence? Why not more?"

"More?"

"The fingerprints on the doorknob, for one. It would be as easy to fabricate that as it would be the knife."

"I…see! That would be possible!"

"Also, concerning the broken bed post…Mr. Everest, would you please present the photo as evidence?"

John sighed and took out the photograph. "Here, we found that the bed post closest to the defendant was damaged. The wound on the defendant's head matched perfectly with the damage to the bed post…"

"About that…that was forged too."

"What?"

"Travis was unconscious. There was no way Travis could stop someone from smashing his head into a bed post."

"Hrngh…"

Miranda smiled. "Your honor, with all these doubts, the defense claims…that it is impossible to fairly give out a guilty verdict!"

"OBJECTION! Even if you managed to present a theory, a guilty verdict can still—"

"It's innocent until proven guilty. You 'proved' him guilty before, but I put your proof in doubt. You haven't proven him guilty now, unless you can counter the evidence."

"Gah…"

Miranda smiled even wider. I did it…I won!

"STOP!"

Everyone looked at Mike. "Not yet! Not until I'm done testifyin!"

"Mr. Stefenson?"

"I'm not done testifying! There's something I know that no one asked me to testify about!"

"What is it?"

"I know Travis is the killer, and I know that because no one else went into the house that day!"

"No one?"

"No! I was outside most of the day. It was a beautiful day, so I was out on my porch, reading. I can tell you no one came in or out of the house!"

John stood up straight, and nodded. "I completely forgot about that. Your honor, this was mentioned in the last trial as well. No one entered the house that day besides Travis!"

The crowd started talking amongst themselves, before the judge quieted them down. John cleared his throat. "I have a question for our defendant."

Travis looked at John. "What is it?"

"What was the reason you were able to enter the house so quickly?"

"…."

"Come on, please tell the court the truth."

"…the door was cracked open."

Miranda looked at Travis. "What?!"

Travis shook his head. "There's no doubt about that…it was cracked open."

John smirked. "Thank you Travis."

"OBJECTION! How does that change anything? If the door was cracked open, that would mean that the killer entered through the front door!"

"And yet, our witness claims no one went through that door except for Travis. Besides, one could be airing out the house as well, with a cracked door open."

"Hngh…"

"Since the 'real killer' couldn't have entered the house, then your theory of the 'real killer' just went out the window!"

 

5: Chapter 5

Miranda leaned forward on her desk. There has to be a way the real killer got in.

John smiled. "And before you ask, no, there were no signs of forced entry."

Miranda took a deep breath. I—it can't be! I can't prove there was a way the real killer could have gotten in!

John smiled. "So sorry Ms. Veal. Better luck ne—"

"WAIT!"

The courtroom's attention went toward the source of the noise, Travis. "Wait! There was a way for a person to get in!"

"What are you blabbering about?"

"It was starting to cool down from summer that day. My mother always tries to save money, so she turned off the AC that day and opened up the back door! She said that it was safer than the front, since there was a wall in the back yard!"

"OBJECTION!" John slammed on his desk. "Quit lying! The witness here said that the only way to enter is through the front—"

"Hold it! Hold everything!"

Everyone turned to Mike. "Mr. Prosecutor…my memory isn't as good as it once was, however, I just remembered something."

"What is it?"

"When I went into the house, I noticed the back door was open."

"…! I—it was?!"

"Yes. Sorry for the confusion…"

The court was silent. The judge banged his gavel. "So there was a way for another person to be at the scene of the crime."

"OBJECTION!" John looked at Travis. "The wall…how high was the wall?!"

"…about four feet tall."

"F—four feet?"

"Yes. I was able to climb over it. I always told my mom it was still dangerous since the wall was still climbable, but she wouldn't listen."

Miranda smiled. "And now it looks like you are out of tricks, Mr. Everest."

"…impossible…did I have the wrong guy the entire time?"

The judge banged his gavel. "Ms. Veal, can you tell the court what you believe happened?"

"Yes, your honor. When Travis was about to return home, someone hopped over the back yard wall and entered the house through the open back door. There, he killed the victim. However, before he could make his escape, Travis came back. Frightened, the killer knocked him unconscious. Then, to make sure Travis was arrested, he framed Travis, by putting his fingerprints on the knife and the doorknob. Much to his dismay, another witness arrived. To make it look like Travis was trying to fool him, he smashed Travis's head against the bed post, making it look like Travis tried to make himself unconscious. When Mike went to go call the police, that's when the killer made his escape, hopping over the back wall, and escaping the scene."

The judge shook his head. "It all seems logical. Any objections, Mr. Everest?"

"…the prosecution…has no objections."

The judge shook his head. "Very well then. Mr. Sherman, may you please stand up."

Travis stood up. "Travis, I am here to correct a wrong. You were falsely convicted of a crime you didn't commit. The court officially deems Travis Sherman…not guilty!"

The audience clapped loudly. The judge banged his gavel. "That is all. The court is adjourned."

Miranda smiled as she gathered her belongings and exited the courtroom. Entering the defendant's lobby, she put her stuff down and sat down on a bench. Soon, Travis was escorted into the room. The guard stopped Travis. Taking out a key, he released the handcuffs from Travis. "You're a free man Mr. Sherman."

Travis rubbed his wrist. "Thank you officer…"

Travis saw Miranda. "…and thank you…Ms. Veal."

Miranda shook her head. "You can call me Miranda. I'm not your attorney anymore."

Travis slightly smiled. "Thank you Miranda…I honestly didn't think you could do it at first."

Miranda chuckled. "Well…it WAS my first case."

Travis slightly smiled. "Now, what I did tell you before…was true."

"What do you mean?"

"Well…I honestly don't know what to do anymore. Even though I am now a free man, the man who killed my mom killed the future I was supposed to have. I had hinged everything upon basketball. I don't know what to do…"

Miranda put her hand on Travis's shoulder. "I can't answer that for you. You have to figure that out yourself."

Travis slightly nodded, still uneasy about his future.

Miranda chuckled. "Come on! Let's get out of this danky mood and go celebrate!"

"Danky?"

"Just let's go celebrate!"

"Not in prison clothes I'm not."

"…you can borrow some of mine."

Travis turned around and saw John behind him. "Mr. Sherman…I must apologize for my actions."

"What actions?"

"Getting you convicted of murder…"

"…you had a job to do, and you did it well. I won't say that I wasn't mad at you at first, or that it didn't hurt, but you had a job."

John slightly smiled. "Thank you…"

Miranda shoved John closer to Travis. "You're invited too! Let's go celebrate! Food's on me!"

"Just let me borrow John's clothes first."

And so, after getting a change of clothes, Miranda, Travis, and John celebrated at a pizza parlor. John invited Travis to stay over at his place, until he could find a place of his own.

Travis walked downstairs in the middle of the night, unable to sleep. Sitting down on a couch, Travis began to ponder everything that had happened to him the past four years. "I wonder how Jared and Mary are doing…"

Travis began to wipe a tear from his eye. "Why did you have to die Mom? Why did you have to die?"

Travis began to silently sob. Soon, when he had calmed down, Travis thought of the horrors he had to go through in prison. That's when the idea came to him. "I don't want anyone else who's innocent to be in prison…I know what I'm going to do!"

John woke up, later than he had expected. Travis is probably already up by now…

Getting out of bed, and putting on normal clothes, John walked downstairs to see Travis still sitting on the couch. Travis noticed John. "Good morning…"

"Good morning Travis. Did you sleep well last night in an actually good bed?"

"Not really…I was up most of the night."

"Oh? Why's that?"

Travis didn't respond. However, a few seconds later, Travis asked, "John, how do I start the process of being a defense attorney?"

 

6: Chapter 6

*Two years later*

Miranda was called into her boss's office. "Ms. Veal, I have an important case I need to assign you."

"What is it sir?"

"I'm sure you're aware that Lance Bort hasn't arrived to work today."

"Yes. Everyone in the office has been talking about it. We don't know what happened to him."

Miranda's boss pointed to the door. "Please close it."

Miranda did as she was instructed. "Lance was found dead in his house this morning."

"H—he's…dead?"

"Yes, murdered. The police were quick to make an arrest too, saying they have decisive evidence and witnesses."

"So you want me to investigate it?"

"Yes. The defendant has already specifically requested you to defend her."

"I see…what's her name?"

"Leah Morritson. An eighteen year old girl."

"Okay then, I'll get started right away."

"Before you go, I also have some news to tell you. I just hired a new attorney and he will be accompanying you today."

Miranda shook her head. "What's his name?"

"Josh Evanson."

"When do I meet him?"

"He's not coming in for another fifteen minutes, but it's imperative that you start your investigation immediately. The police want the trial to be tomorrow."

"T—tomorrow?!"

"I don't know why, but that's when the trial is. Now, chop chop. I'll send Josh over to the jailhouse when he gets here."

Miranda shook her head. "One last thing, breathe not a word of this to anyone in the office. I'll let them know in a couple hours."

Miranda again shook her head and left the office. Gathering her belongings, she rushed to her car and went to the jailhouse to meet Leah.

Miranda's boss was still in his office when he heard a knock on the door. "Come in."

A brown-haired man walked into the room. "Ah, Josh, glad you could make it."

"I'm glad to be here sir."

"Anyways, you're going to be going with one of my best attorneys today investigating a case. She left for the jailhouse about ten minutes ago. Her name is Miranda Veal."

Josh shook his head. "Very well sir. I'll be going right away."

"Oh, and Josh, don't tell anyone in the office about the case when you learn what it's about."

"Yes sir."

Josh walked out of the office. Miranda's boss sighed. He's changed…

Miranda walked into an interview room. Soon, she saw a blonde female getting escorted into the room. "You must be Miranda Veal."

"I am."

"Thank you for representing me. My name is Leah Morritson. My father…is the victim…"

"They're charging you of killing your own father?"

"Yes. They said they had hard evidence when they entered our home. Apparently, a couple people from a play my father was directing was paying a house visit when they discovered the body."

Being a lawyer and directing a play…two different occupations…

"Were you anywhere near your house when they discovered the body."

"Yes…I was at a neighbor's house. I was pet sitting for my neighbors as they were on vacation. They discovered me there and arrested me."

"Alright, where's your house? The address, I mean?"

Leah told Miranda the address. "Alright. Can you tell me anything I should know before I head out?"

"Not really. I don't know of anyone who would kill my father. He was a kind man who always helped others."

"No one in the cast of the play he was directing held a grudge?"

"Not that I'm aware of."

"Okay then. I'll be off to visit your house. I'll be back later today to let you know what I found out in my investigation."

"Thank you Ms. Veal…"

Miranda nodded her head and walked out of the room. Just as she was about to leave the building, a man walked in. Rushing up to the front desk, he asked, "Is Miranda Veal here?"

Miranda turned around. "I'm right here."

Josh turned around. "Ah, Miranda." Josh rushed up to her. "My name is…Josh Evanson."

Why the pause?

"I'm going to be your assistant for this case!"

Miranda nodded. "I heard. Do you have any prior courtroom experience?"

"Not as an attorney, no. I just passed the BAR exam and got a job at the agency."

"I see, so you're a rookie. Anyways, just watch what I do, and you'll learn quickly."

"Thank you Miranda."

"Just Ms. Veal will be fine."

"…yes, Ms. Veal."

Miranda walked to her car, Josh following. "Do you have your own car?"

"No, I rode a taxi here."

Miranda sighed. "Then come with me."

"Yes ma'am…"

Miranda started her car and went to the address Leah gave her. Stopping a few feet away from the crime scene tape, Miranda got out of the car. "Now, let me do the talking. I'm not trying to be rude, but you being a rookie won't help with talks to the police."

Josh nodded. "Alright…"

Miranda turned and walked to the crime scene. Soon, an officer walked up. "Sorry, this area is closed to the—"

Miranda stopped him mid-sentence. "I'm the defense attorney for the accused. I have a right to at least see the crime scene."

"You must be Miranda Veal then?"

"Yes I am."

"Can I see your I.D?"

Miranda took out her driver's license and handed it over. "Alright then. You may pass."

Miranda walked under the tape. Josh was about to follow when the officer stopped him. "I didn't say you could pass."

"He's my assistant."

"Oh, alright then. Just don't touch anything, or get in the way of the investigation."

Josh shook his head and followed Miranda. "So, what next?"

"We're going to investigate the crime scene. We're only allowed limited access though, but we do have a right to see the autopsy report and other things."

Soon they arrived at the front door. "Knock knock." Miranda entered the house. A detective came and met her. "Ah, Miranda, I see you're the defense attorney then?"

"Yes I am."

The detective looked past Miranda's shoulder. "And who is he?"

"Ah, his name is Josh Evanson, my new assistant. Josh, this is Sean Larim."

Josh extended his hand. "Nice to meet you."

"Likewise."

Miranda started speaking. "So, can you tell me what you believe happened here?"

"Ah, right. Around eleven this morning, two actors for a play were coming to meet with the victim, the director. After not receiving a response from ringing the doorbell several times, they tried to open to door, finding it unlocked. After coming in, and calling out to the victim, they discovered his body, on the ground. He was shot two times. Once in the head, and once in the heart."

"Do you have the murder weapon?"

"Yes, it's a 9mm handgun. The defendant's fingerprints were found on the weapon."

"You found Leah's fingerprints?"

"Yes."

This makes it much harder. "Do you have the autopsy report?"

"Yes I do." Sean handed Miranda the autopsy report. Looking it over, she nodded. "So the shot to the chest was post-mortem?"

"Exactly. Also, the witnesses, before they called the police, saw the defendant running through the back yard, according to them, running as if she were trying to get away from something…or what I could understand…"

"You think she was escaping the scene of the crime?"

"Yes."

Miranda nodded her head. "Anything else?"

"Well…you should see this for yourself."

Sean escorted Miranda and Josh to the living room. "This is where we discovered the body."

Miranda looked where the tape marked the position of the body. "W—what?!"

There, written in blood, was Leah's name.

"How was this written? The victim was shot twice, and one of the shots was post-mortem!"

"…the timing of the shots."

"Timing?"

"Yes." Sean handed Miranda a piece of paper. "This is another report from the autopsy, separate from the one I gave you. The victim was shot a couple minutes after the first shot. That gave him plenty of time to write it."

I already see a hole, but I'll save it for the trial. "Alright…but I have a question."

"What is it?"

"Why is the trial tomorrow?"

"…the prosecutor of the case…is a busy man. He wants to prosecute the case, but has an engagement out of town in three days. Thus, the trial starts tomorrow."

"Who's the prosecutor?"

"Jack Inger."

Miranda's eyes widened. "The…"

"The undefeated prosecutor, yes."

 

7: Chapter 7

Miranda was silent during the drive back to the jailhouse, engrossed with the idea she will be facing the toughest prosecutor in the country. Josh broke the silence. "Do you think you can beat him?"

"Hm?"

"Do you think you can beat that undefeated prosecutor?"

"I don't know. He has a reputation of doing his trials fairly, without manipulating evidence. I'm not sure if he's just that skilled, or if every single person he prosecuted is guilty."

Josh shook his head. Soon, they arrived back at the jailhouse. Getting seated back in the interview room, Miranda checked her watch. "We only have ten more minutes of visiting time left for today. Again, let me do the talking after I introduce you."

"Yes Ms. Veal."

Soon, Leah was escorted into the room. "Hello Ms. Veal…and…"

Miranda chimed in. "His name is Josh. Josh Evanson."

Josh nodded his head. "Nice to meet you. I would shake your hand…but those handcuffs seem to be in the way."

Leah slightly smiled. Miranda then took over. "Leah…to be honest, it's going to be a tough case tomorrow. They do have evidence against you…some…incriminating evidence…and witness testimonies. To top it off, they have the best prosecutor in the country prosecuting you tomorrow."

"I see…"

Miranda sighed. "Don't worry, I'm sure there will be something in the witness testimonies that will prove your innocence. Also, I have a few questions concerning this one piece of evidence…"

Leah shook her head. "I'm glad to hear that."

Miranda smiled. "Hey, you don't go undefeated for two years unless you have a few tricks up your sleeve."

Leah chuckled. "Again, I'm glad to hear that."

Soon, the ten minutes passed, and Miranda and Josh left the jailhouse. Miranda sighed. "It really is going to be tough…"

Josh was silent, simply staring ahead. "Josh?"

"Oh…yes…"

"…what were you thinking about?"

"It's…nothing. Anyways, we should be getting back to the office to file the paperwork."

Miranda sighed. "Yes…the paperwork…"

After a couple hours, the necessary paperwork had been filed. "Alright then, everything's set for tomorrow."

Josh yawned. "Finally. I was starting to get way too many paper cuts."

Miranda chuckled. "So do you need a ride home?"

"Nah, I'm good. I'm going to walk home. It's a beautiful night out."

Miranda shook her head. "Alright. Suit yourself. Just don't be out too late, or your performance tomorrow will suffer."

Josh shook his head. "Yes master."

"What was that?"

"Nothing."

Miranda shook her head and chuckled. "See you tomorrow."

"See ya."

Josh was one of the last ones to leave the office. Walking down the street, he put his hands in his pockets. That was one hectic first day on the job…

Soon, Josh returned to his apartment. Home sweet home…

Turning on the television, Josh microwaved a meal and sat down. Something about Leah strikes me as odd though…she doesn't show…emotion that her father was killed. She's made it look like she has…but I can tell she's faking it…but why?

Miranda was studying her notes of the trial in the defendant's lobby when Josh walked in. Miranda looked up. "Ah, Josh, you're ten seconds late."

"Sorry…the traffic was a bit…tied up. Anyways, has Leah showed up yet?"

"Not yet. The same 'traffic tie up' is stalling her escort right now. She won't be here until the middle of the trial."

"Ah, I see. So are you ready"

"I am."

Josh sat down, and took out a bottle of water from his briefcase. "You keep water in your briefcase?"

"Hey, you never know when you get thirsty…and I'm…pretty thirsty right now."

"This is your first time being in an official trial, even though you're just watching, isn't it?"

"Yes."

"Well, just observe what I do, and that's basically it. Unless I'm in a jam, just observe."

"Yes ma'am."

Soon, the bailiff from the courtroom came out. "Ms. Veal, Mr. Evanson, the trial is about to start."

Miranda closed the folder. "Alright. Let's do this!"

Josh shook his head. "I'll be sure not to get in your way…"

Miranda and Travis went to the defense attorney's desk, and sat down. An elderly man sat behind the prosecutor's desk. Miranda took a deep breath. That must be Jack Inger…

Soon, the judge entered the courtroom.

"Court is now in session for the trial of Leah Morritson."

Miranda stood up. "The defense is ready, your honor!"

Jack stood up as well. "The prosecution, is adequately prepared, your honor."

The judge shook his head. "I've been looking forward to the trial when I was assigned to it yesterday. Two undefeated attorneys going at it! Let's begin!"

This isn't for your entertainment…your honor.

The judge cleared his throat. "Prosecutor Inger, your opening statement please."

"Yes your honor. Yesterday, the world lost a brilliant lawyer. I faced him several times in court. He was found murdered in his own home, shot. The first shot, was to the head. The shot was mortal, but not instantaneously. A couple minutes later, he was shot in the heart…when he was already dead."

The judge shook his head. "So it seems like the killer had some sort of hatred for the victim."

Jack took out a folder. "This is the autopsy report, your honor. It details when the crime took place, where the victim was shot, and when each bullet penetrated the victim."

Miranda took out her own copy. According to the report, the shots were separated by two minutes…and the crime occurred around eight in the morning…

The judge shook his head. "The court accepts this as evidence."

"Next, is the murder weapon. It's a standard 9mm handgun. The bullets in the body matched the gun through ballistics tests. This is indeed the murder weapon, and to top it off, the defendant's fingerprints were found on the weapon."

The judge banged his gavel. "Why…that's quite decisive!"

"Not yet, there are many things that can disclaim it, however, the next piece of evidence…spells out who the murderer is."

He must be talking about the bloody handwriting…

Jack took out a photo. "Look at this…your honor. Tell the court…what you see."

"Why…that's…the body!"

"What's above the body?"

"…! Why…that's blood…spelling out the defendant's name!"

The crowd started speaking, only to be silenced by the judge's gavel. "The court accepts this as evidence!"

Jack nodded. "And, I have a witness to testify as well. He will tell us what happened!"

The judge banged his gavel. "Bring him in at once."

I'm starting to see how he is undefeated. He gets the judge involved…and usually on his side too.

A brown haired man walked into the room. "Name and occupation."

"Mine title is Philip Greo. My profession is acting."

"Mine title?"

Jack shook his head. "Witness, tell us what you saw yesterday."

"As thou commandeth."

What the heck?!

"Yesterday, mine companion and I journeyed to the director's abode. Once we arriveth, mine companion rang the bell. Not receiveth an answer, I intruded into the abode. Seeth not the director, I callest out his name. Mine companion soon screacheth, discovering the body! All thine evidence pointeth to the girl!"

The court was silent. Miranda stared at the witness. Is he a time traveler? Who even talks like that!?

The judge banged his gavel. "That certainly was…an interesting testimony. Ms. Veal…have fun cross-examining the witness."

Even the judge is at a loss. Why do I always get these cases?

Josh shook his head. "You can do this, Ms. Veal!"

 

8: Chapter 8

"Yesterday, mine companion and I journeyed to the director's abode—"

"Hold on! Why did you two go to meet him?"

"We haven't heareth about a part in thy script. We traveleth to his abode to commune with him about it."

"Did you see anything unusual while you were outside?"

"Nay, nothing."

Why do I feel like I'm in the medieval period?

"Once we arriveth, mine companion rang the bell—"

"Hold on! By 'bell', do you mean the doorbell?"

"Yes, exactly what I saith earlier."

Sorry Mr. Medieval…

"Not receiveth an answer, I intruded into the abode—"

"Hold on! Okay, a few questions. First one, why did you enter his house?"

"Thy director dealest with some health problems. We becameth worried and intruded."

"Okay…now, how were you able to get in?"

"The front door wast unlocked."

You almost…almost had a good, modern sentence…

The judge shook his head. "Continueth on, witness."

Not you too…

"Seeth not the director, I callest out his name—"

"Hold on! So you didn't immediately see his body?"

"No. His body was hidden thither, behind thine couch."

Miranda shook her head. "Please continue."

"Mine companion soon screacheth, discovering the body—"

"Hold on! Where was your companion before he discovered the body?"

"Behind me. He was too terrified to entereth before me."

He's slowly getting better…with his speech…

"All thine evidence pointeth to the girl—"

"Hold on! What evidence?"

"Thy murder weapon, the fingerprints, and the bloody writing."

"OBJECTION!"

Miranda shook her head. "Mr. Philip, was it?"

"Thou art correct."

"You see, not every single piece of evidence is beyond reproach."

"What dost thou mean?"

"I'm saying this, one piece of evidence has a pretty clear fault in it!"

The crowd starting chatting, soon to be silenced by the judge. "Ms. Veal, please tell us, which piece of evidence has a fault line in it?"

…no, don't say anything…

"Not a fault line, your honor, just a contradiction." Miranda took out a picture of the bloody writing. "This is the evidence that contradicts everything."

"How so?"

"Just by its very existence. You see, according to the autopsy report, the second shot was post mortem, two minutes after the first shot. Now, if the victim was already dead by the second shot, then the only time he had to write the name in blood…was after the first shot, correct, Mr. Inger?"

"…yes."

"However, it's pretty obvious that the writing was there. If my client was the killer, she would have seen the writing. Now, your honor, what would you do, after killing somebody, and seeing your name written in blood?"

"Why…I would wipe it away."

"Exactly, but that's now what we see here. It's still in plain sight!"

"OBJECTION! There is the possibility that she didn't see it!"

"OBJECTION!" Miranda smirked and shook her head. "Mr. Inger, tell me, would you miss such big writing?"

"…"

Miranda smirked. "It seems Mr. Inger is too stunned for words."

The judge shook his head. "Indeed…I never thought of that…"

"OBJECTION!" Jack started chuckling. "Ms. Veal, I didn't survive years of being an undefeated prosecutor for nothing. I already thought of that, which is why I have another question to ask my witness."

Philip's head bobbed. "My name wast calleth."

"Mr. Greo, did you, in any way, touch the body?"

"…actually…I did."

Miranda looked at Philip. "You—you what?!"

"I moveth the body. I did not knoweth whether thy director was deceased. I knelt by his side, and flipped the body over."

"You…flipped the body over?"

"Yes…however…"

"However what?"

"I…don't remember seeing the bloody writing there."

"You…don't?"

"No…I don't."

The crowd started murmuring amongst themselves. The judge banged his gavel. "Wait…so if the witness doesn't remember the writing, then that means that the writing is forged!"

Miranda shook her head. "Exactly!"

Jack smiled. "Thank you witness."

Miranda was puzzled. He looks…pleased, even though the testimony is against him…

"Now, tell me, witness, what did you and your companion do after you discovered the body?"

"We left thy house and calleth the police."

I sure hope they recorded that…I need a good laugh about now.

"Now, that is interesting. First, there is no writing, then, there turns out to be bloody writing…after the body was left alone for several minutes. Now, again, witness, tell us what you saw when you went back into the house?"

"…we saw…the girl…running in the backyard."

Miranda's eyes widened. "You saw her…running?"

"Yes. I thinketh she was trying to escape the scene of thy crime."

"You think?"

"Yes. She had a look of fear on her face, like she knoweth what happened."

Jack smiled. "Thank you, witness. As you just heard, the defendant was at the house, after the murder, alone with the body. That was when the bloody writing was written."

"OBJECTION! According to you, then my client wrote her own name in blood!"

"OBJECTION! I interviewed the witness myself. She was…remorseful, at the death of her father. In her sorrow, she decided to turn herself in another way, by writing her name in blood."

"OBJECTION! You have no proof of that!"

"OBJECTION! Sorry to say this, Ms. Veal, but I do. Your honor, I have another piece of evidence to present to the court."

"Another piece of evidence?"

"Yes. When the victim was apprehended, there was drying blood on the tip of her right index finger. DNA evidence confirmed that the blood…was the victim's."

"W—WHAT?!"

The judge banged his gavel. "I want to see evidence of this immediately!"

Jack handed the bailiff a picture and a report. The judge was handed he evidence and looked through them. "…why, he's correct. He has a picture of the defendant's finger, soaked in blood, and the report stating the blood on the finger matched that of the victim."

The crowd started talking loudly.

"That girl has to be guilty."

"Why prolong the trial? We all know of her guilt!"

"GUILTY! GUILTY! GUILTY!"

The judge loudly banged his gavel. "Order! Order!"

Miranda sighed. This is bad. If this continues the way Jack wants it to, Leah will be pronounced guilty before she even arrives!

The judge banged his gavel again. "Ms. Veal, do you have any objections to the prosecutor's arguments?"

I…I do…but…I can't…say anything…

"OBJECTION!"

The entire court looked to the left of Miranda, at Josh. "Your honor, the defense has an objection!"

The judge was stunned. "Who—who are you?"

"My name is Josh Evanson, I'm an assistant to Ms. Veal. There's something I noticed about the trial, that the prosecutor may be trying to hide from the rest of us!"

The judge's eyes widened. "Why…what is Mr. Inger trying to hide?"

"The second witness! Notice, he never called him forward, yet, our current witness keeps mentioning him! Why not send him up to be a witness as well? He could have spotted something our current witness hasn't!"

"OBJECTION!" Jack slammed on his desk. "You're just wasting the court's time! The second witness has nothing else to say that our current witness hasn't already—"

"OBJECTION! Then prove it! Your honor, I request that the second witness be called to testify!"

The judge shook his head. "I, too, am intrigued about this second witness. Mr. Inger, you will—"

"Stop right there!"

The entire court looked at Philip. "There is no need for that!"

The judge looked at Philip. "Mr. Greo?"

"My companion doesn't need to testify! I, alone, am enough!"

Miranda slammed on her desk. "Mr. Greo, the court needs to know his testimony! Therefore—"

"And I'm not allowing you to! I'm staying here for the rest of the—"

"OBJECTION!" Jack stared at Philip. "We finally get to see your true colors, Mr. Greo. Now, put your petty feud aside! The court will hear his testimony."

"Mr. Inger, I still have—"

"No you don't. The court is done questioning you. Go sit out in the lobby and wait for the trial to finish."

Philip's face turned red as he stormed out. "My apologies, your honor. It seems that he and the second witness…have a bit of a fight going on between them."

"As I can tell. Anyways, please call your next witness."

Soon, another man walked into the courtroom. "Name and occupation."

"My name is Philip Greo. I'm an actor."

"…! You—have the same name as the previous witness!"

Jack shook his head. "Indeed, the source of their rivalry."

Miranda groaned. Oh great…

Jack looked at Philip. "Mr. Greo, please tell the court what you witnessed…"

"Yes sir!"

"That day, Philip and I were going to the director's house to talk about who was going to get the main role in the play. Philip rang the doorbell several times. After not getting an answer, he pushed the door open and went inside. Loudly calling out his name, Philip continued to walk into the house, while I stayed outside. Soon, I heard him scream. I rushed inside, and looked for what spooked him. There, on the floor, was the director's body, shot to death."

The judge shook his head. "I see…Ms. Veal, please commence with your cross-examination."

"Yes…your honor." I have a bad feeling about this…his testimony is completely different from the other Philip…

 

9: Chapter 9

"That day, Philip and I were going to the director's house to talk about who was going to get the main role in the play—"

"Hold on! Who was in contention to be in the main role?"

"Naturally, myself and Philip."

"Why did you go to his house then? Couldn't he just call you guys and tell you?"

"We were specifically told to meet with him yesterday at the designated time."

So they were both called over…but something doesn't add up. Lance was supposed to be working yesterday the time he was killed. Why would he call anyone over when he was supposed to be working?

"Maybe he was skipping work for a day?"

Miranda turned to Josh. "Did you read my mind?"

Josh slightly smiled. "No, but I had a feeling of what you would think. I honestly don't know why he would do that to be honest."

The judge banged his gavel. "Enough chatter between the defenders!"

Miranda turned forward. "Sorry, your honor. Please continue witness."

"Philip rang the doorbell several times—"

"Hold on! According to Philip, it was you who rang the doorbell."

"I know, but he's lying, about more than one thing."

"…! More than one thing?"

"Yes, but I'll tell you later. I'm positive it was Philip who rang the doorbell."

Why lie about ringing the doorbell?

Miranda looked at Jack. "Did the police do a fingerprint check of the doorbell?"

"We did, but there were too many fingerprints to decipher, and most of them were smudged. We can't accurately tell who rang the doorbell."

How convenient…

"After not getting an answer, he pushed the door open and went inside—"

"Hold it! How long did you not get an answer."

"A couple minutes. We weren't so impatient that we just bashed down the door."

"…! Bashed down the door?"

"Uh…yes? The door was locked tight. We couldn't easily get in."

"Then how did you get in?"

"Philip picked the lock."

"Was Philip lying about this too in his testimony?"

"Yes."

"Mr. Inger, is there signs of forced entry from the front door?"

"…yes there is."

Jack took out a folder. "We found scratches on the lock, indicating that it had been picked."

I'm starting to see why Jack withheld this witness. He completely contradicting his previous witness…while providing evidence that the current witness is telling the truth…but why try to hide it?

"Because it's detrimental to his case."

"Josh?"

"Think about it Ms. Veal. Our client lives in that house. Obviously, she had the means to enter the house. However, why would she pick the lock?"

"…! This witness—"

"Is actually helping us. However, there still isn't enough proof to get a not guilty."

Miranda shook her head. "Please continue witness."

"Loudly calling out his name, Philip continued to walk into the house. While I stayed outside—"

"Hold on!" At least they have this correct. "So Philip was the one who called out to the director?"

"Yes. It was quite loud, with his 'Where art thou, Director?' I'm surprised the whole neighborhood didn't hear it."

I feel sorry for the neighbors… "So you didn't go inside?"

"No, not then. I don't like walking into someone else's house uninvited."

These two Philips are completely opposite people…no wonder they are at odds with each other.

"Soon, I heard him scream—"

"Hold on! So it was Philip who discovered the body?"

"Yes. His shriek was even worse than him calling for the director. I'm positive my ears started bleeding a bit."

Another inconsistency…

"I rushed inside, and looked for what spooked him—"

"Hold on! So that was when you entered the house?"

"Yes. After screaming so loudly, I was curious as to what caused him to do that."

"Where was Philip at the time?"

"Right over the body."

Miranda shook her head. "Please continue."

"There, on the floor, was the director's body, shot to death—"

"Hold on! How close did you get to the body?"

"Not too close. As soon as I saw the body, I felt nauseated. I rushed outside and called the police."

"Did Philip join you then?"

"No, he stayed inside."

…! Wait…could it be!?

"Are you sure about this!?"

"Y—yes I am. He didn't come out until a few minutes later. I assumed he called the police from inside."

Miranda smiled and shook her head. "Thank you."

The judge slammed his gavel. "Ms. Veal…I've seen that look before. What do you want to say?"

"Your honor, remember how, with the bloody handwriting, that the killer was alone with the body prior to the police arriving?"

"Y—yes."

"Now, as Philip was outside, calling the police, the other Philip was still inside…with the body."

"…! Wait, you mean to say—"

Miranda slammed on her desk. "Yes." Miranda pointed her fingers to the first Philip. "Philip is the real murderer!"

The court was silent. Jack crossed his arms. "What are you talking about Ms. Veal?"

"We proved that the killer had to be alone with the body after it was discovered. While the second Philip was calling the police, the first Philip was still inside with the body!"

Jack shook his head. "I get that, but that's all you have. Not enough to get a 'not guilty.'"

"As of yet. Your honor, I request that we question Philip once more. He's hiding something and I want to know what it is."

The judge shook his head. "I agree. His testimony is a bit…full of holes. Prosecutor Inger. Prepare your witness. We'll take a fifteen minute recess. When we reconvene, we will question the witness."

Jack sighed. "Yes, your honor."

"That is all. Court is now in recess!"

The judge banged his gavel.

Miranda walked out of the courtroom. Josh was right behind her. "I have to thank you, Josh. Otherwise, I wouldn't have been able to continue the trial. I couldn't speak for some reason."

Josh slightly smiled. "No problem. I knew something was wrong when you didn't say anything, so I jumped in. Anyways, do you really think it's the first Philip?"

"I have no idea. However, I do know that something is fishy with him. He didn't want the other Philip to testify, for obvious reasons. I also have a feeling his…style of speaking is just a farce as well. Could you tell how his speech changed when we wanted to question the other Philip?"

"…you're right!"

Miranda shook her head. "Either way, the trial is just getting started."

Josh shook his head. Opening his mouth to speak, he was interrupted by a door opening. Leah was escorted into the room. "Ah, Ms. Veal, how goes the trial?"

"Pretty good. We have a great lead right now. One of the witnesses may actually be the killer, but we aren't sure about that just yet."

"I knew you could do it Ms. Veal!"

"It's not over yet. Don't get too excited until we get the 'not guilty' verdict."

Leah shook her head. Josh stared at her, a look of suspicion on his face.

The crowd was happily chatting when the judge banged his gavel. "Court is back in session. Prosecutor Inger, have you prepared your witness?"

"I have, your honor. He is eager to prove what the defense claims is a lie."

The judge shook his head. "Very well, you may call the witness once more."

Before Jack could say anything, Philip was standing at the witness stand. "Witness, you know what to do."

"With pleasure sir!"

I was right…that speech was just a show.

"I admit, I did lie to the court. I was the one who rang the doorbell. I stepped inside while Philip stayed outside. I discovered the body and was alone with the body. However, while there, the defendant came into the house and asked me to write the bloody writing. She told me she was too guilty to not get caught. So, I did what I did, and she escaped to a neighbor's house."

The judge looked at Philip. "So, the defendant asked you to put the blood writing down?"

"Yes. She was too frightened to do it herself, so I took the victim's hand and wrote the writing."

The judge shook his head. "One more question, why were you talking the way you were before?"

Philip grinned. "You like it? I was auditioning for a role in the play that required speech like that. I was just practicing."

The judge sighed and shook his head. "You may cross-examine the witness, Ms. Veal."

Miranda shook her head. "Yes, your honor." Something's…not right with this testimony.

"I admit, I did lie to the court—"

"Hold on! Why? Why did you lie to us?"

"To protect my role with the writing. Putting down bloody writing from a dead victim doesn't help you in court."

"So you thought you would get charged with murder?"

"Yes. I expressed my feelings with the prosecutor before the trial. He told me to tell the truth…but I lost my nerve when I got to the stand."

So Jack knew the witness was lying? Then why did he still allow the testimony?

The judge banged his gavel. "Prosecutor Inger, if you knew the witness was lying, why let him continue to testify?"

"…simple. I was testing the defense to see if they could spot it. It took another witness, but they did. Well done."

This isn't school you know! I don't need tests anymore!

"OBJECTION! Mr. Inger, this is a court of law! Any testimony—"

"Could harm the defendant, yes, I know. I wasn't really going to let the testimony go if you didn't spot it. That's also why I didn't want the other Philip to testify. I was going to tell the court about the lies."

I doubt that's true…but I can't tell the court otherwise.

"Witness, please continue with your testimony."

"I was the one who rang the doorbell—"

"Hold on! Why lie about that?"

"…to make it look like it was Philip who was most active at the crime scene. As I said, I was trying to hide the fact I wrote the bloody writing. If it was found out that someone else could have done the writing, I wanted Philip to take the fall."

So those two really are in a…tense rivalry.

"Is it because of your rivalry with Philip that you tried to frame him?"

"…yes and no. Philip was the only one there who I could frame. However, I did feel good about framing him."

I wonder…if he framed him…and wrote the bloody writing…did he touch any other evidence?

"I stepped inside while Philip stayed outside—"

"Hold on! So it is true Philip stayed outside for the time being?"

"Yes. It wasn't until I discovered the body that he came inside. I thought that was suspicious at first. After all, why not go inside the director's house? It could get you a leg up!"

"…please continue witness."

"I discovered the body and was alone with the body—"

"Hold on! So after you discovered the body, Philip walked in, then left to call the police. That left you alone with the body, correct?"

"…sort of."

"Sort of?"

"Philip lied about that in his testimony. He said he would go get help. He didn't have his cell phone on him that day. He forgot it at home, but it was too late to go back and get it."

"Is this true?"

"Yes, of course. I have no reason to lie now. My deed has been brought to light."

If this is true…why did the other Philip lie as well?

"WAIT!"

The other Philip shouted from the crowd. "He's lying! I had my phone with me the entire time! Even ask the police! My call should be in their records!"

Miranda sighed. "Mr. Inger, does the police have any records of the call?"

"…in a clerical error, we lost the records of several calls during that time. His call would have been with the lost calls."

That's just convenient. Now we don't know who's telling the truth.

Jack cleared his throat. "However, we should be able to find out by asking the operators who were working during that time. They'll be able to tell us if Philp called."

The judge shook his head. "Bailiff, go tell the police to ask the operators if Philip called. For now, witness, please continue."

"However, while there, the defendant came into the house and asked me to write the bloody writing—"

"Hold on! A couple of questions. Where did the defendant enter the house?"

"Through the back door. She must have been hiding there the entire time after the murder."

"Did you see her come in?"

"…no. She surprised me when she walked into the room. However, there was no way she could have entered through the front. Philip was there and—"

"OBJECTION!" Miranda slammed on her desk. "Philip, please tell the court the truth."

"About what? I am telling the truth about everything!"

"Previously, you stated that Philip went to go get help, since he didn't have his cell phone with him at the time. Now, you say that the defendant couldn't have entered through the front because Philip was there. If Philip really did go get help, he wouldn't have been there. In other words, you're lying about what Philip was doing!"

"…! Urgh…I mean…gah!"

"Philip, it's time you told the court the truth, what was Philip really doing?"

"…he was…I don't know…I am telling the truth about him not having his cell phone with him. However, I lost sight of him when he left the house."

"So Philip could have been doing anything at that time then?"

"Yes…"

"Just a moment!"

The court looked at Josh. "I can't believe we never thought of this…"

Miranda looked at Josh. "Thought of what?"

"If what the other Philip says is true…then he would have spotted something important."

"Something important?"

"Yes. Forgive me for not telling you, but last night, I left my house and went to examine the house where they caught the defendant. The back door was locked firmly tight by screws, so there was no way she could have entered through the back. The windows were bolted shut as well. However…the front door wasn't. That was the only way someone could have entered the house. Now, according to the other Philp, he was standing out front, calling from his phone. If that is true…he would have seen Leah entering the house!"

"…w—what?!"

The courtroom erupted into chatter. "Maybe the witness is telling the truth!"

"Wait…why all the lying and deception?"

"Isn't it easier to tell the truth from the beginning?"

Jack smirked. "Why thank you Josh for helping my case. You just discredited the witness that was on your side. How—"

"I'm sorry, Mr. Inger, but I'm not done yet."

"What do you mean?"

"Someone from the crowd asked, 'Isn't it easier to tell the truth from the beginning?' That person is right. Why lie? It won't help anyone. However…I have a hunch."

"A hunch?"

"What if we're missing something crucial? What if the events didn't unfold like we thought they did? Both witness have lied, and lying in the court usually means you're hiding something. For the first Philip, it was to cover up the fact he wrote the bloody writing. Why would the second Philip lie? Maybe he was doing something that would throw us all off."

Jack stared at Josh. "Throw us…"

Miranda finished the line for Jack. "All off?"

The judge banged his gavel. "Mr…whatever your name was, this is a court of law! If you don't have any factual evidence to present, I'll have to dismiss your claim."

"…I don't have any…for now."

"Then your claim has been repealed. One more outburst and waste of the court's time will result in contempt of court."

"Ngh…understood…your honor."

Miranda looked at Josh, who only smirked. "It looks like you're on your own for now. Just be sure to make the trial last another day. I need some more investigation time at the site."

Miranda shook her head. "Don't worry Josh, I'll make sure that happens!"

The judge banged his gavel. "Now, witness, please continue after that rude interruption."

Talk about being impartial…

"Hold on! I still have another question to the witness's previous comment."

Philip looked at Miranda. "And what's that?"

"Why did she tell you to write it? If she were trying to be caught, she would have written it herself."

"…I honestly don't know. She just told me to—"

"Stop! Stop everything!"

The court looked at Leah. "You're lying! I never told you to write my name in blood! I wasn't even there!"

Philip looked angry. "You're calling me a liar?! I'm telling the truth! You told me to write down your name!"

…it certainly seems like Philip is telling the truth…but Leah is my client.

Jack slammed on his desk. "Enough! I've had enough of this 'he said she said' game! Ms. Veal, since you're representing the accused, do you have any ideas as to who is telling the truth?!"

If Leah is telling the truth, then Philip is lying, which is good for us. If Philip is telling the truth, then Leah is lying…which is bad…maybe…

"Both are correct, your honor."

"Both are?"

Jack started chuckling. "Oh, this is good. Tell us, how are both correct, when they tell the exact opposite of each other!"

"It's quite simple…there was a third party."

"A third…party?"

"Yes, the real killer!"

The crowd in the courtroom burst out in chatter again, before being drowned out by the banging of the gavel. "Order! Order! Ms. Veal, please explain!"

Jack scoffed. "Yes, please explain, unless you're saying your client is the real killer."

"Not at all. You know how people look like other people? Like a common person looks exactly like a movie star? This happened at the crime scene! My client, Leah, was at her neighbor's house, while the real killer, looking almost exactly like her, posed as her."

The judge's eyes were wide. "So, then she could then pose as Leah and fool Philip?"

"Yes. No one, including a guilty murderer, would want their name literally written at the crime scene!"

"OBJECTION! Tell us, who is this 'real murderer'? No one that we know of involved in this case looks like the accused."

"That's what my assistant was trying to tell you guys. There needs to be more investigation regarding this case. There are too many holes, too many 'he said she said' games going on. I guarantee you that another investigation of the crime scene, as well as the house Leah was arrested in, would help sort out this case!"

The judge furrowed his forehead, deep in thought.

"OBJECTION! The crime scene was already thoroughly investigated. No further investigation is—"

"Did you thoroughly investigate all of the rooms?"

"…"

"I take it you didn't."

The judge banged his gavel. "This is what I see this trial as, a circus. The train of thought for both parties is starting to go haywire. I also believe that more investigation is required. The court will reconvene tomorrow. Until then, both parties will, this time, thoroughly investigate the crime scenes. Am I understood?"

Miranda shook her head. "Yes, your honor."

Jack sighed. "I got it…your honor."

"Good. Court is now adjourned."

The judge banged his gavel.

Miranda walked into the defendant's lobby, followed Josh. "Thank you Josh…you got us on the right track."

"Hey, no one's perfect. Sometimes, two minds are better—"

"Than one, yes. Anyways, why didn't you tell me about your investigation?"

"Because I thought it wasn't really relevant what I found. Honestly, I didn't go inside, but I did go across the exterior of the house. The windows and back door are bolted shut. I also didn't see any signs of forced entry. As I said, the only way Leah entered the house was through the front."

"Which is correct."

Josh and Miranda looked at Leah, who had just walked into the room. "My neighbors are a bit…paranoid when they leave the house for extended periods of time. They bolted everything they can shut, so that it makes it harder for thieves to break in. Makes them want to go after easier prey."

"So the only way into the house is through the front?"

"Yes."

"Which doesn't make sense if the second Philip was standing outside calling the police. He would have spotted you."

"And I didn't see him around the time of my father's death…"

Josh still stared at Leah, eyebrows raised. "You sure you didn't see him?"

"No. I've seen both Philips several times during play rehearsals. I know what they looked like back then, and I didn't see them."

Miranda sighed. "This case is confusing. Most cases I take are usually straight forward, like my second case I took. I was finished within an hour. This is my first time going multiple days in a trial."

Leah shook her head. "No problems. From what I've heard, it's been a confusing trial. Just by the two Philips…"

Josh cleared his throat. "Leah, may I ask you a question?"

"Yes?"

"Did anyone see you go into the house you were arrested in?"

"…no, not that I'm aware of."

Josh shook his head. "Alright. Just wanted to make sure if anyone could give you an alibi. That would make the trial a whole lot easier."

Leah shook her head. "I'm sorry, but no one saw me."

The guard cleared his throat, obviously wanting to go.

"I'm sorry guys, but it looks like I have to go…"

Miranda shook her head. "Don't worry, leave it to us. We'll get you out of there tomorrow!"

Leah smiled. "Thanks…"

Leah was escorted out of the room. Miranda looked at Josh. "Well, are you ready to get investigating?"

"Ready when you are…but let's get something to eat first."

Miranda chuckled. "Agreed."

Jack walked into the crime scene, Sean Larim walking beside him. "What do you want us to do sir?"

"I want to you go over every room in this house thoroughly. I don't want even a crumb unturned."

"…yes sir! You heard him guys, let's get to it."

Sean watched as Jack left the house. He must be upset…this is the first time anyone's challenged him in court.

Miranda and Josh finished eating. Miranda burped slightly. "Alright then…let's go."

Josh shook his head and stood up. Soon, they arrived at the crime scene. Sean spotted them first. "Ah, Ms. Veal, Mr. Evanson, I was told to expect you. I've been told to let you investigate the house."

Miranda shook her head. "Thank you Sean."

Sean shook his head and left the room. Josh walked back to the door. "Okay…now…" Josh took a few steps forward and stopped. "What are you doing Josh?"

"Walking through what the first Philip told us. He walked into the house and walked a few steps forward. He then called out the director's name and continued forward. Josh walked forward, eventually nearing the couch. "This must be where he found the body, and shrieked. The second Philip ran in, saw the body, then left to get help. While gone…"

Josh looked across from him, spotting another door to a room. "That must be where the real killer hid, if what we believe happened actually happened."

Miranda and Josh walked into the room. Miranda looked around. "Well, it's obviously a bedroom…telling from the bed and other…bedroomy…feels."

Josh chuckled. "Anyways, if the real killer hid in here, then there has to be a trace of her."

Miranda shook her head. "You're right. Let's get looking."

After a few fruitless minutes, Miranda spotted something. "That's odd…"

"What is it?"

"There's a little stain on the top of the sheet on the bed…a little drop of juice maybe?"

"Hmmm…"

Miranda got up and left the room. Soon, she returned with Sean. Sean took one look at it and shook his head. "It's blood, and by the look of the stain, it's been there for about a day."

"Then that means…that could be a trace from the real killer!"

"Maybe, but I wouldn't get my hopes up. After all, maybe the victim had a nosebleed the day he was killed. Anyways, I'm going to get a forensics team here and look at it. In the meanwhile, I have to ask you to leave until the results are in. Don't worry, I'll tell you honestly what the results are. The forensics team needs to have their space while investigating."

Miranda shook her head. "No worries. We have another area to investigate anyways."

Sean shook his head and exited the room. Miranda and Josh followed him. Miranda turned to Josh. "Time to investigate the other house."

Josh shook his head. Soon, they arrived at the house, to hear the sound of dogs barking. "I guess the dogs are still here."

"They were last night as well. You'd be surprised how friendly they are though."

Josh entered to the backyard first. The dogs ran up to him, sniffed him, then started wagging their tails. "They seem to remember me."

Miranda chuckled. "You keep dog sitting, I'll investigate. Miranda walked up to the front door and twisted the handle. To her surprise, it opened. Walking inside, she shivered. The house was ice cold. The smell of the air told her that the air hadn't been properly circulating. The blinds were all closed, so not much light was able to penetrate into the room. "Well…this is ominous." Walking deeper into the house, she noticed how dusty the room was. "I guess this family doesn't like to clean the house…Leah too. How did she survive in this room for a couple hours without a jacket?"

Shivering, Miranda walked on. After walking through several, messy rooms, she arrived back at the house. Nothing here that screams, "I'm a piece of evidence!" Well…I guess—

Miranda's attention was drawn toward a picture on the living room table. Miranda walked over, trying to look at the picture. "This must be a picture of the people who live here…" There were five people in the picture. "Hmm…that must be the mother and that the father…" Miranda's eyes scanned to the other half of the photo. A young woman with blonde hair was standing next to the father. "Isn't…isn't that…Leah?"

Miranda shook her head. "Nah, it can't be her…however…"

Miranda took out her phone and took a picture. I'll have to have Sean look at this later…

Miranda took one more look around the room. I guess that's it then…

Miranda left the house, to see Josh sitting on the ground, two dogs lying contently near him. "It seems like you're popular."

"Heh, what can I say? Dogs just naturally love me."

Miranda shook her head and walked on. "Anyways, we need to head back to the house. I have something I need to show Sean."

"A piece of evidence?"

"Maybe…but I have to have him look at it first to be sure."

Josh stood up and started walking. The two dogs started whining. "Don't worry guys, I'll be back!" Josh turned around and ran to catch up with Miranda. After closing the gate and sprinting for a few seconds, he caught up. "Man you walk fast…"

"Or maybe you're just that slow."

Josh just shook his head. Soon, they arrived back at the house. Sean was in the living room, on the phone. "Yes Prosecutor…I'm sure those were the results. The forensics team confirmed it…yes, I understand sir…okay…bye."

Sean hung up the phone. Miranda walked up. "So, what were the results?"

Sean jumped slightly. "Ah…Ms. Veal, the results were…well…you were right. The blood was not from the victim nor from anyone related to the case. They aren't in the system either…so in other words…we don't know who."

"So that means…my third party theory…was correct!"

"…possibly. Anyways, how was your other investigation?""

"Didn't turn up much. However, I do need you to look at a picture."

Miranda took out her phone and showed the picture to Sean. "Is this a picture of Leah?"

"No, it isn't. There are a few slight differences, but on the first look, it looks like Leah."

"…! W—where did you find this photo?!"

"In the house you guys arrested her in."

Sean paced back and forth. "This is bad for me…I was told to solidify the prosecution's case…but all we've done here is strengthen yours!"

"These two pieces of evidence do, at the very least, make my theory a possibility!"

Sean sighed and shook his head. "Yeah…they do…anyways, I'm going to go see this photo myself. If it's exactly the way it is on your phone…I'll officially give the evidence merit."

Sean swiftly left the house. Josh chuckled. "Sean reminds me of a butler who's trying to please the person he works for."

Miranda chuckled. "He does seem like that. However, he has a reputation to uphold."

"What do you mean?"

"You see, I know it may sound like a cliché, but Sean's father was a pretty famous policeman in the city. He was notorious for solving cases deemed 'unsolvable', but he'd always find a way to solve them. He was a hero in the city…before he died ten years ago in the line of duty. Sean is trying to uphold his family name…it's actually sort of sad to see."

Josh slightly nodded his head. "If only he were still alive…"

"What did you say?"

"Nothing…nothing at all."