Chapter 9: The Sterling Retaliation**
While the Vance home fought for emotional healing, the outside world erupted into chaos. Richard Sterling, Evelyn’s ruthless father, launched a vicious public relations war against Julian.
Tabloids were flooded with leaked stories alleging that Julian was an abusive, neglectful father who had concocted false charges against his innocent socialite fiancée to mask his own domestic instability. Sterling hired high-profile defense attorneys who immediately filed motions to dismiss the criminal charges, citing lack of physical evidence beyond the testimony of a "disgruntled domestic employee."
Arthur Pendelton arrived at the estate with a grim expression. “Julian, the prosecutor is worried. Because there are no severe broken bones or outward lacerations on Leo, Sterling’s defense is trying to reduce the felony imprisonment charge to a simple misdemeanor. They are painting Maria as an unreliable witness who is seeking a cash payout from you.”
Julian’s eyes flashed with anger. “Maria hasn't asked for a single cent. She saved my boy’s life.”
“The law in this state is cold, Julian,” Arthur warned. “Without hard physical evidence or corroborating testimony from an independent party, it becomes Maria’s word against Evelyn Sterling’s prominent social standing. And juries can be manipulated by money.”
Julian looked toward the garden, where Maria was currently helping Leo plant sunflower seeds in the soft earth. Leo was smiling for the first time in weeks, his small hands covered in soil.
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“Maria will not be thrown to the wolves,” Julian said firmly. “If the justice system needs proof, we will find the truth buried in this house. Evelyn wasn't working alone. Someone helped her modify those wall panels.”
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