The Summer House

Chapter 93

Staff Sergeant Caleb Jefferson is in a familiar place, standing at attention in front of a supposed superior. Even with his hands cuffed in front of him, he’s still maintaining his military bearing. The judge is an old man who looks like he keeps photos of his grandpappy in Klan robes in a secret drawer in his desk, but he starts off the process by reading some official paperwork, and the droning goes on and on.

Jefferson looks around the courtroom, crowded with reporters, locals, law enforcement, and, standing up against the wall, the Army doc and lawyer back there, looking tired and discouraged. Poor guys. They thought they could help him and his men. Nope. Wasn’t going to happen.

He — Staff Sergeant Caleb Jefferson, Second Platoon, Alpha Company, Fourth Battalion — is going to take care of his men.

Jefferson spots Sheriff Emma Williams sitting in the front row, arms folded, looking pretty damn pleased with herself.

Same look as a week ago.