Chapter 13 - The Courthouse Steps
The dawn broke over the city in muted shades of gray and steel blue. By 8:15 AM, the steps of the County Municipal Courthouse were already bustling with bailiffs, clerks, and early morning litigants.
At the top of the marble steps, Eleanor Vance stood beside her attorney—a slick, sharply dressed man named Ronald Vance, her first cousin. Eleanor was impeccably dressed in a tailored charcoal suit, her hair styled flawlessly, projecting an aura of aggrieved dignity.
""The petition is uncontested,"" Ronald muttered, reviewing his tablet. ""The clerk confirmed no opposing appearances have been filed as of eight o'clock. Robert is likely still nursing his pride in that empty house.""
""He was always weak,"" Eleanor said coolly, adjusting her sunglasses. ""He hides behind protocol and grief. By the time he realizes the trust accounts have been frozen, Julian's placement will be permanent, and the liquid reserves will be in Panama.""
""Don't get cocky,"" Ronald warned. ""Aunt Holloway will push the order through, but we still have to file the title transfers with the state depository before noon.""
A sleek black car pulled up to the red curb directly in front of the courthouse steps. The doors opened, and Robert Walker stepped out, clad in a crisp navy suit, looking commanding, rested, and utterly immovable.
From the passenger side emerged Maya, wearing her high school honor society blazer over a simple white shirt, holding a slim leather portfolio under her arm. Walking beside them was Marcus Reed, carrying a federal courier briefcase handcuffed to his wrist.
Eleanor froze, lowering her sunglasses. ""What is he doing here? He didn't file an objection.""
Robert didn't rush. He climbed the stairs with measured, rhythmic strides, Maya keeping pace at his side. They stopped three feet away from Eleanor and her cousin.
""Eleanor,"" Robert said pleasantly, his voice carrying clearly across the wide portico. ""Lovely morning for a hearing.""
""Robert,"" Eleanor replied, recovering her haughty composure. ""If you're here to make an emotional scene, save your breath. The probate calendar is fixed. You have no legal standing to contest the emergency conservatorship without twenty-four hours' written notice.""
May you like
""She’s right, Mr. Walker,"" Ronald sneered, tapping his briefcase. ""You missed the window. Step aside before I have the bailiff remove you.""
Marcus Reed chuckled dryly, taking half a step forward. ""Ronald Vance, isn't it? Disbarred in Nevada in 2021, reinstated under probation in this district? I suggest you check your administrative docket before you speak another word to my clients.""
