Roma’s laugh carried just the right amount of self-deprecation. “You know how it is during the holidays, Your Honor. Though I promise this extra padding will be gone by February.”

“Ummm yeah… February, I guess,” Roma added with a slight shrug.

Judge Donahue’s eyes narrowed slightly. “You’ll have to expedite that timeline, given your apparent… beau reputation in this city.”

Roma’s smile widened, not missing a beat. “What can I say, Your Honor? My current squeeze, Roseanne Palmer…” he coughed delicately, “…excuse me, Ms. Palmer, she’s got me a one-woman man as of now.”

A beat of silence.

“You know, life goes on without me,” Roma added, his tone oddly philosophical.

Judge Donahue’s brow furrowed, his professional smile faltering into confusion before he cleared his throat and moved on.

Juniper and Daniel exchanged quick glances, their heads turning slightly at this casual exchange between judge and counsel. The moment felt surreal - like watching two apex predators share a private joke.

“Don we now…” she thought, her blank stare fixed on the ridiculous ensemble before her.

“Your Honor,” Roma continued smoothly, his voice carrying that dangerous charm that had won him countless victories. “The government’s position is clear. The plaintiffs’ expert testimony relies on speculative analysis that fails to account for national security considerations.” He moved with practiced grace, each gesture precise as a conductor leading an orchestra. “We have precedent from United States v. Juisys LLC that clearly establishes-”