Page 52 of One Last Stand

Moose glanced at Ridge, who raised an eyebrow. A hint of a smile tugged at his lips.

Across the room, Benton and Grant also stood. Grant folded his arms, his legs planted, a picture of triumph. Benton ran some kind of construction company in Illinois. Fit and wealthy, he seemed confident of his win in the way he looked over at Moose.

Moose turned his attention to the judge, who called the court to order, then directed them to sit.

He glanced at Tillie, who gave him a tight smile, a nod.

“Ladies and gentlemen, the court will now address the motion for a directed verdict.”

Please, God, vindicate me.It felt like a psalm of David.“Vindicate me, Lord, for I have led a blameless life; I have trusted in the Lord and have not faltered. Test me, Lord, and try me, examine my heart and my mind; for I have always been mindful of your unfailing love and have lived in reliance on your faithfulness.”

Okay, maybe notalwaysin reliance on God’s faithfulness, and he hadn’t always not faltered, but . . . he was trying.

“In a civil case, the burden of proof rests with the plaintiff. It is their responsibility to establish their claims by a preponderance of the evidence. However, throughout this trial, I have observed significant gaps and inconsistencies in the plaintiff’s case. The evidence presented has failed to provide a compelling and persuasive basis for finding in favor of the plaintiff.”

Moose held his breath.

“Furthermore, the defense has effectively challenged the credibility of the key witnesses presented by the plaintiff. Through their cross-examinations, they have revealed contradictions and weaknesses in the testimonies, casting doubt on the reliability of the plaintiff’s evidence. The defense has also presented counterevidence and arguments that undermine the plaintiff’s claims.”

Please, God.

“Considering these factors, it is my opinion that a reasonable jury, properly instructed, would not find in favor of the plaintiff based on the evidence presented. The plaintiff has not met their burden of proof, and the evidence falls short of establishing their claims.”

Moose looked at Ridge, who didn’t meet his eyes, kept his focus on the judge.

Right. Don’t celebrate yet, but?—

“Therefore, I hereby grant the motion for a directed verdict in favor of the defendant. The plaintiff’s claims are dismissed, and the defendant is relieved of any liability.”

Moose’s breath rushed out, his chest unknotting.

“Additionally, in light of the circumstances surrounding this case, I find it appropriate to exercise my discretion and order the plaintiff to pay all of the defendant’s legal fees. The plaintiff initiated this lawsuit, and their failure to meet the burden of proof has resulted in unnecessary costs and expenses incurred by the defendant.”

Moose’s mouth dropped open.

“Therefore, I hereby direct the plaintiff to pay all of the defendant’s reasonable and necessary legal fees incurred in the defense of this case. This includes attorney fees, court costs, and any other related expenses. The jury is dismissed and court is adjourned.” His gavel came down.

Adjourned. Fees paid. Claim dismissed.

Moose put both hands on the table and closed his eyes even as outrage erupted from the plaintiff’s table.

But he breathed in fresh air, and as he turned, Tillie came around and launched herself into his arms. He caught her up, and he just soaked in her embrace, the sense of tomorrow, and everything big and beautiful in front of them.

She pushed away from him, caught his face in her hands. “See! I told you—you did nothing wrong!”

“Nothing?”

The voice made him look up. Moose stepped in front of Tillie and even moved her a little behind him.

Harry Benton had come over, his lawyer’s hand on his arm. Ridge stepped between them. “Mr. Benton?—”

“He let her die. Freezing, bleeding, scared, and alone—he let her die out there!” His voice shook, his eyes reddened, and Moose just couldn’t retort.

Not with the man in so much pain.

Instead, he swallowed, and his words emerged soft. “I’m so sorry for your loss.”

“He did nothing wrong,” Tillie said, stepping out from behind him, but Moose caught her hand.