An Invisible Client

by Victor Methos

medicine away. That we can never use that medicine.” My heart was in my throat; adrenaline coursed through me. “Why did he say that?” “Your Honor!” Bob nearly shouted. “None of this has anything to do with—” “Sit down, Mr. Walcott. Your objection is overruled.” “Go ahead, Michael. Answer the question,” I said. “He just said we were never allowed to take it because it might make us sick.” “When did he say that, Michael?” He shrugged. “I don’t know.” “What grade were you in?” He thought a moment. “Sixth grade, I think. So, like, a year ago.” I stood next to Michael now. “Your father told you last year that you weren’t allowed to take this medicine because it would make you sick?” “Yeah.” Michael nodded. He didn’t even realize what he’d just said. I turned to Bob, who stared at Rucker in turn. Rucker got up from the audience and rushed out of the courtroom. 44 In the attorney–client room at the courthouse, Bob sat across from me. We had sent everyone else away; it was just the two of us. He ran his finger across the tabletop, then grinned. “How did you know he would say that?” “It was