Chapter 14 - The Judge's Shadow
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When Victor descended the stairs, he found unexpected company in the grand living room.
Sitting in one of the leather armchairs, holding a crystal glass of Victor’s finest scotch, was Judge Sterling. Audrey’s father was a tall, imposing man with silver hair and the arrogant posture of a man who believed the law belonged to him. Audrey was sitting on the sofa next to him, looking anxious but bolstered by her father's presence.
“Victor, my boy,” Judge Sterling boomed, standing up to offer a firm, politician’s handshake. “Audrey told me you flew back early. I was in the neighborhood and thought I’d stop by to welcome you home.”
Victor accepted the handshake, squeezing just a fraction harder than necessary. “Judge. It’s always a surprise to see you outside of your chambers.”
“Family comes first, Victor,” the Judge said, taking a sip of scotch. “Audrey tells me your mother is taking a turn for the worse. It’s a tragedy. A damn tragedy. But you have to remain strong. For Audrey’s sake, and for the future of your combined estates.”
Victor’s eyes narrowed slightly. The mention of the estates wasn't an accident. Klein’s financial report echoed in Victor’s mind. The Judge was facing financial ruin, and he needed Sylvia’s trust fund just as desperately as his daughter did.
“My mother is a fighter, Judge,” Victor said smoothly, taking a seat across from them. “She might surprise us all and pull through.”
Audrey’s face paled, and she shot a frantic look at her father.
Judge Sterling laughed, a dry, humorless sound. “Nature takes its course, Victor. We can't fight God's will. Have you updated the legal paperwork regarding the trust? In the event of... sudden complications?”
Victor stared at the Judge. It was breathtakingly brazen. They were sitting in his living room, drinking his scotch, actively planning how to spend his mother’s money while she lay paralyzed upstairs.
“Everything is in order, Judge,” Victor lied effortlessly, leaning back in his chair. “If anything happens to my mother, the transition of assets will be immediate. Audrey and I will have nothing to worry about.”
Relief washed over Audrey’s face in a sickening, visible wave.
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“Excellent,” the Judge smiled, finishing his drink. “Well, I must be going. Audrey, my dear, stay strong. Victor, let me know if you need any federal... assistance, dealing with the estate transfers.”
The Judge left. The trap was fully baited.
