Client: Nashville Justice, #7

By Cole Steele

Lori and Shaun Tolliver are no strangers to the brutal battlefield of the courtroom. As a defense attorney and investigator duo, they've seen it all. But when they take on the case of Shelby Tipton, a grieving mother unwittingly entangled in a deadly drug conspiracy, they grapple with their toughest challenge yet.

In the face of an unyielding justice system, ruthless criminal elements, and Shelby's impending trial, the Tollivers must race against time to untangle a web of deception. As the evidence piles up, the truth becomes increasingly elusive.

"Client" is a riveting legal thriller that plunges you deep into the high-stakes world of crime and justice. With every revelation more shocking than the last, Lori and Shaun's fight for Shelby's freedom will keep you on the edge of your seat. Discover the truth that lies hidden behind the courtroom doors.

• Language: English
• Publisher: SteeleShots
• Release date: Jun 24, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223537182

Cole Steele

Cole Steele is a versatile and talented author residing in the United States. With a vivid imagination and a knack for storytelling, Cole Steele has successfully created two enthralling book stories and a captivating short story series. Cole Steele is deeply grateful to the writers who first ignited his passion for storytelling and provided the inspiration to embark on this creative journey.

Book preview

ONE

Shaun Tolliver looked up at the ancient wooden clock hanging on the brick wall of his sister's law office. It was five past eight, and he had just taken the last sip of his lukewarm coffee when the office phone rang.

The LCD screen read 'Unknown Caller.' He picked up the receiver, pressed the illuminated button and brought it to his ear. Tolliver Law Office, Shaun speaking.

There was a pause on the other end, followed by the crackle of a poor connection. Then came a voice. It was rough, scraped raw by time and hardship, but unmistakably familiar.

Shaun...it's Ben. The voice was halting, strained with effort or emotion. Ben Tipton.

Shaun's hand tightened around the phone, the plastic creaking under the pressure. Memories flooded back in a wave of harsh lights, concrete walls, and the ever-present threat of violence. The prison yard. The attack. The shiv. And Ben. Always Ben.

What can I do for you, Ben? His voice was steady, betraying none of the turmoil inside him.

I'm callin' to collect, Shaun, Ben said. The line went quiet for a moment, and Shaun could hear the distant hum of prison life in the background. My mom, Shelby, she got picked up on a possession charge. They're saying it's serious.

Shaun took a deep breath, processing the information. Shelby, the woman he'd heard so much about during those late-night conversations in their shared cell. Ben's voice on the line seemed to echo those old memories.

They got her into some sort of deal, Shaun, Ben continued. Transporting, they said. For a gang, I think. It's the debt, Shaun. She was trying to settle my debt.

Shaun felt a lump in his throat. He swallowed hard, fighting against the surge of anger and guilt. Ben, I...

I know, Ben interrupted, his voice softer now. I know you'd make good on your word. You're the only chance we got, Shaun.

The line went dead, leaving Shaun with the dial tone ringing in his ears. He put the receiver down and leaned back in his chair, his mind racing. He'd have to persuade Lori to take the case, and not just take it - they would have to win. It was time to pay back his debt.

TWO

Lori Tolliver had made a habit of arriving at the office early. As she unlocked the door to the quaint little brick building that housed their law firm, she noticed that the light was already on in Shaun's office. She frowned. Her brother was never the first one in.

Stepping inside, Lori hung her coat on the rack and made her way to Shaun's office. The door was ajar, and she could see Shaun sitting at his desk, hunched over and staring blankly at the far wall.

You're in early, she remarked, leaning on the door frame.

Shaun looked up, the furrowed brows and the troubled look in his eyes caught her off guard. Shaun was always the cool, composed one.

I had a call, he began, hesitating as if trying to find the right words.

Lori crossed the room and perched on the edge of Shaun's desk. Who was it?

Ben, Shaun said simply. He watched as Lori's eyebrows shot up in surprise.

Benjamin Tipton? Lori clarified, remembering the name of Shaun's old bunkmate. What did he want?

Shaun took a deep breath, steeling himself. His mom's in trouble. She's been arrested for possession, with intent to distribute. They're saying it's a major quantity.

Lori felt her stomach churn. That's a serious charge, Shaun.

Shaun nodded, running his hands over his face. "I know. Ben said she was forced into it by some gang. To