The sound is loud, unmistakable. Row after row looks back in disbelief, then in alarm. The crowded courtroom bursts into chaos. The gallery surges to its feet in confusion and fear. Lawyers grab their briefcases and files.
People slam into each other in panic, trying to escape to the exit doors.
I look wildly toward the back row where Artie was sitting. I can't see him at all. The mob at the back is pushing and shouting. Ben and other law clerks run for the judges' exit next to the dais. My heart begins to thunder.