EIGHTY THREE

JOCELIA'S POV

I ran the doorbell and waited. A few moments later, a frazzled-looking woman carrying a screaming toddler appeared at the door, the child tugging at her hair.

"Sorry, kids can be too much sometimes," the woman said, attempting a weary smile.

I forced an awkward smile, trying not to let my disgust show. "Hmm," I muttered, glancing around.

The woman seemed to realize her mistake and quickly corrected herself. "I'm sorry, how can I help you?"

"I'm here to see your husband, Judge Edward. Is he home?" I asked, leaning slightly to peek into the house.

"Babe! There's someone here looking for you!" the woman yelled into the house, her voice strained from trying to keep the toddler in check.

From inside, I heard a voice reply, "Who is it?"

"Just a woman," the wife answered, wincing as the toddler pulled her hair harder. I couldn't help but wince at their shouting. This was not the professional atmosphere I was hoping for.

"Could you tell him it's for his own good, and he better h