The court session began, and soon Claude was called to the stand. As he walked past Chief Lucas, he gave him a little squeeze. Claude nodded but said nothing. He was all ready, and the bailiff proceeded. Claude stared down at the bible before him; he placed his left hand on top and then repeated.
"I, Claude Murfield, do swear to say nothing but the truth." The bailiff left, and so did the Bible, but his rate never dropped. He slowly sat down and awaited the questions. Chief Lucas's team was first.
"Mr. Claude Murfied, I do understand it is your request to have an out-of-court settlement… May I ask why? What reason prompted such a heavy conclusion?" Claude's sweaty fingers folded together beneath the table, his eyes settled on the anticipated jury.
