Chapter 10: The Hearing**
The New York County Supreme Courtroom was packed to capacity for the preliminary bail and custody hearing. Eleanor sat at the defense table, wearing a plain beige jumpsuit provided by the detention center, her hair unwashed and loose around her shoulders. She looked decades older without her makeup and diamond jewelry.
Judge Evelyn Torres sat atop the bench, reviewing the medical exhibits and forensic audit binders with a stern, unyielding expression.
"Your Honor," Eleanor’s lead defense attorney argued, "Mrs. Vance is a respected pillar of the community, a major philanthropist, and poses no flight risk. We request immediate bail and the dismissal of the frivolous protective orders."
Judge Torres looked over her glasses. "Frivolous, counselor? I have photographic evidence of severe physical trauma inflicted on a young mother while holding a four-month-old infant. I have documented transcripts of private security hired to stalk the victim across state lines. And I have financial audits indicating widespread corporate fraud."
The judge turned her attention directly to Eleanor. "Mrs. Vance, your wealth does not place you above the law. Bail is set at two million dollars, conditional on total electronic monitoring and the complete surrender of all domestic and international passports. The restraining order protecting Clara Vance and baby Leo is extended indefinitely."
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Eleanor slumped back into her chair, her gaze hollow as the gavel struck the wooden block with a resounding crack.
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