68 The Ultimatum

As Michael stepped through the courthouse doors, the swarm of journalists, microphones thrust forward like spears, was immediate and overwhelming.

"Mr. Reyes! Mr. Reyes! Please, can you answer one question from us!"

"Mr. Reyes, how do you feel about today's proceedings?"

The questions flew at him from all directions, each voice trying to drown out the others for a moment of his attention. Michael, still processing the weight of the courtroom's atmosphere, found himself momentarily frozen, the real world crashing back with the force of a tidal wave.

The security guards, recognizing the potential for the situation to escalate, quickly formed a protective barrier around Michael.

"Please, give Mr. Reyes some space," one of the guards asserted as he gently guided Michael through the sea of reporters.

"But sir…please, just one question from us and we swear we will leave!"