Chapter 12 - The Desperate Defense
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Two weeks later, the preliminary bail hearing was held at the New York Supreme Court.
Ethan had used the last of his line of credit to hire Richard Kane, a sleazy, high-profile defense attorney known for representing corrupt businessmen.
The courtroom was packed with journalists, corporate executives, and onlookers eager to witness the downfall of the Vale family.
Ethan sat at the defense table in a rented suit, looking gaunt and pale.
I sat in the front row of the gallery beside my grandfather, Arthur Sterling, and Julian Vance. I wore a tailored midnight-blue dress, holding my head high.
Richard Kane stood up before the judge, putting on a grand show.
“Your Honor,” Kane argued dramatically, “my client is the victim of a calculated, weaponized campaign by the ultra-wealthy Sterling family! Mrs. Sterling used her vast financial resources to trap my client, manufacture evidence, and destroy his reputation because she wanted a favorable divorce settlement!”
The judge, a stern elderly woman named Justice Mercer, looked over her glasses at Kane.
“Mr. Kane,” Justice Mercer interrupted flatly. “Are you suggesting that the audio recording of your client striking his wife was staged?”
“It was taken out of context, Your Honor!” Kane blustered. “It was a private marital argument!”
Sarah Vance stood up from our table, holding a sleek digital tablet.
“Your Honor,” Sarah said calmly. “We submit the forensic audio verification from three independent audio experts, alongside the emergency room medical records and the sworn statements from Vance Logistics’ lead forensic auditors.”
Sarah turned to look directly at Ethan.
“Furthermore, we have bank records showing Mr. Vale attempted to transfer $500,000 to an offshore account three hours after his termination.”
Justice Mercer slammed her gavel down with a sharp crack that echoed off the mahogany walls.
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“Bail is denied,” the judge ruled coldly. “The defendants present a extreme flight risk and a danger to the victim. Remand them to custody pending trial.”
Ethan turned pale as the bailiffs grabbed his arms. “No! Your Honor, please! I can’t go to jail!”
