Chapter 9 - The Trial Begins
The family court of the county was an imposing neoclassical building, its marble corridors filled with whispering attorneys and anxious families. Judge Eleanor Vance presided, a woman renowned for her skepticism toward theatrical wealth.
Julian’s legal team presented an overwhelming barrage of exhibits: trust funds, elite private school registrations, and medical concierge retainers. Julian took the stand, rehearsed and polished, presenting himself as a reformed man who had simply panicked under the sudden responsibilities of impending fatherhood.
"I made a mistake, Your Honor," Julian testified, sounding appropriately remorseful. "I was terrified. But I have returned to fulfill my obligations. A child deserves the best resources the world can offer."
Marcus, Clara’s lawyer, stood up slowly for cross-examination. He didn't carry thick stacks of paper. He carried only a single audio transcript.
"Mr. Sterling," Marcus began. "On the morning of April twelfth, while Ms. Evans was undergoing emergency cardiac imaging for the unborn child, where were you?"
"I was in Geneva, finalizing a merger," Julian said cleanly.
"And when your personal assistant informed you that the child might require surgical intervention within forty-eight hours of birth, what was your instruction?"
Julian hesitated. His eyes flickered toward his lead attorney. "I don't recall the specific words."
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"Allow me to refresh your memory," Marcus said, reading from the phone log certified by Julian’s own telecom provider. "'Tell her to handle it through the legal fund. I cannot have an invalid child attached to this IPO.' Did you say those words, Mr. Sterling?"
A suffocating silence descended over the courtroom.
