”Move closer,” Bette scolded. ”This is the first time I’ve seen you on a case that you had a prayer of winning. You’re right about it being a slam dunk.”

”So you know why it’s important,” Tina said. ”I can’t believe I was gardening two days ago. It’s fucking freezing today.”

”You curse a lot – I let you kiss me with that mouth?”

”You didn’t seem to mind some colourful language a few minutes ago,” Tina retorted.

”Do the guys always get the plum assignments to pad their stats?” Bette didn’t want to let the matter go. ”I know you weren’t on this case originally.”

”We shouldn’t be talking about this, Bette,” Tina said. ”We’re technically the lawyers of record at the moment.”

”Okay, let me frame it as an academic argument,” Bette pondered her wording. ”How many times have you had multiple eye witnesses, a recanted confession and incontrovertible forensic evidence as part of a case in the last 12 months?”

”I don’t know why he won’t take a plea bargain,” Tina ignored the question.

”Every offer was taken to him,” Bette said. ”He thinks he can do better in court.”

”I don’t want to talk about it anymore,” Tina said. ”If Harvey finds out why we got a continuance, I’ll be prosecuting drug possessions until I’m 80.”

”The king of the old boys doesn’t want a woman to get any guaranteed wins,” Bette said. ”He’d love an excuse to freeze you out.”

”It’s no surprise women leave that office so quickly,” Tina sighed. ”One frustration after another.”

”You should go into private practice,” Bette said. It wasn’t the first time she’d brought up the suggestion. ”There are innocent people that deserve representation. There are social justice groups that need good lawyers. And we’re always looking for bright and driven defenders.”

”I will never work for your firm,” Tina said. ”Never.”

”Would you start a firm with me?” Bette asked.

”You’ve officially lost your mind,” Tina said. ”Our first date was two weeks ago, I’m not leaving the D.A.’s office and you’re not starting a new firm.”

Tina’s phone signalled an incoming text as it rested on the bedside stand.

”Sorry, I have to get this,” Tina said. ”It might be work.”

She glanced at the screen and she shook her head