From Useless To Indispensable

Court Disaster

Larry Conrad sat alone at the dimly lit bar, his fingers tracing absent-minded patterns on the polished wood surface. The air was thick with the scent of alcohol and the murmur of conversation, but Larry was lost in his own thoughts, a tempest raging within him.

Across the room, the barman, Frank, watched him with concern, his brow furrowed in worry. He knew Larry well, knew the weight of the burdens he carried, and he couldn't help but worry for his friend's well-being.

Finally, unable to bear the silence any longer, Frank approached Larry with a sympathetic smile. "Another drink, Larry?" he offered, pouring a shot of whiskey with practiced ease.

Larry shook his head, his gaze distant as he slid some dollars across the table. "Just the check, Frank. And the key to Room 44."

Frank hesitated, his concern deepening. "You sure about that, Larry? You don't seem yourself tonight."

Ignoring the question, Larry snatched up the key and stood, his movements jerky with pent-up emotion. "I'll be