Chapter 10: The Fall of House Kensington**
Judge Hall’s gavel struck the sound block with a sharp, resounding crack that silenced the courtroom.
"Ms. Kensington," the judge said, her voice dripping with indignation. "Not only is this petition for emergency custody dismissed with prejudice, but I am forwarding this entire evidentiary docket to the State Attorney General for immediate criminal review regarding witness tampering, evidence fabrication, and corporate espionage."
Victoria sprang to her feet. "This is an outrage! You cannot base a judicial ruling on stolen digital files!"
"The files were voluntarily surrendered by your former chief financial officer two hours ago," Julian said calmly, turning to face her. "Federal marshals are currently executing a search warrant at your father's corporate headquarters."
Victoria looked around the room, realizing that every camera lens was focused on her unraveling composure. Her high-priced attorneys were already gathering their briefcases, unwilling to tie themselves to a sinking ship.
"You ruined everything, Julian," she hissed, her voice trembling with venomous spite. "You chose a nobody and a bastard over the greatest corporate merger of the decade."
Julian looked at her with pity rather than anger. "Ewan is not a bargaining chip, Victoria. And Clara is more of a hero than anyone in your family has ever been. Security, please escort Ms. Kensington out."
May you like
As two bailiffs led Victoria away, the courtroom erupted into frantic shutter clicks and overlapping questions from the press. Julian simply turned, wrapped his arm around Clara, and walked out the private side exit, leaving the chaos behind.
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