Disclaimer: All television shows, movies, books, and other copyrighted material referred to in this work, and the characters, settings, and events thereof, are the properties of their respective owners. As this work is an interpretation of the original material and not for-profit, it constitutes fair use. Reference to real persons, places, or events are made in a fictional context, and are not intended to be libelous, defamatory, or in any way : This could really be anyone's POV…But I had Stan in mind.

XXXX

One word.

Three letters.

It is such a simple word to say. It should just tumble from my lips effortlessly, but today it didn't. It was as if I was outside my body, looking at the scene play out from above. I saw the crazy glint in the witness's eye as she pulled the gun out of her purse and began waving it around, screaming how she wouldn't testify. I saw the mad look in her eyes as she focused the gun on Mary's turned back. I saw Marshall's eyes widen as he realized what was happening. Saw the terror in his eyes. Heard him shout her name as he grabbed her, trying to push her out of the way. The suspect's eyes widened.

Boom.

The gunshot echoed in the small area. I heard Mary screaming. Saw my other marshals rush in and tackle the witness. Frozen in my spot, I saw Marshall fall. Saw the blood. So much blood. Heard the anguish in Mary's voice as she screamed for someone, anyone to help. Saw the tears flowing down her cheeks and the blood spatter on her white blouse and she looked at me, begging me for help. I heard the EMT's rush into the room, and saw them gather around Marshall. Heard Mary's voice demanding that he not die, he had a promise to keep. Against my own will, I remained stationary. I could see the flashing red and white of the ambulance lights through the windows. Heard the sirens wail as it sped down the street to the hospital.

One word.

Three letters.

Gun.

Why couldn't I say it?

~Finito!~