Chapter 27

The courthouse steps were swarmed with reporters. Camera flashes erupted like strobe lights, forcing everyone to squint.

I adjusted my suit collar and strode into the courtroom. My friend's legal team stood ready at their table, stacks of evidence documents neatly arranged before them.

"The defense may present its evidence," the judge declared, rapping the gavel.

Vivian's lawyer immediately rose, slamming a thick folder onto the table. "We have conclusive proof that the plaintiff engaged in commercial fraud..."

He punctuated each statement with pointed glances in my direction, as if expecting me to crumble under pressure.

Vivian kept her head bowed, fingers twisting nervously. Her carefully applied light makeup couldn't conceal the dark circles beneath her eyes.

In the gallery, Ethan Winslow lounged with crossed legs, flashing me a triumphant smirk. He even mouthed the words: "You're finished."

"Plaintiff may now present evidence," the judge turned to our side.

My friend rose calmly, first submitting financial records. "These documents show the defendant company's fund movements over three months..."

With each piece of evidence presented, Vivian grew paler. When my friend produced a voice recorder, her head jerked up, lips trembling.

"This records a conversation between defendant Vivian Lancaster and Ethan Winslow," my friend announced, pressing play.

Ethan's tearful voice filled the courtroom: "Ms. Lancaster, I did everything for you—"

Gasps erupted throughout.

Ethan shot to his feet, his chair screeching across the floor. "Fake! That's doctored!" he screamed hysterically. "Your Honor, they're fabricating evidence!"

Bailiffs immediately restrained him.

The recording continued playing. Vivian's icy voice cut through clearly: "This is the last time I help you."

Live stream comments exploded with terms like "scumbag" and "gold-digger."

The judge addressed Vivian: "Does the defense wish to cross-examine?"

Ethan frantically signaled Vivian, hissing under his breath, "Deny it! Say you never said those things!"

Vivian rose slowly. Her beige pantsuit made her appear particularly fragile today.

The entire courtroom held its breath.

She walked to Ethan and suddenly raised her hand—

SMACK!

The resounding slap silenced the room.

Ethan clutched his cheek, eyes wide with disbelief. "Have you lost your mind?"