Chapter 6 - The Shattered Mirror
As the preliminary legal proceedings began, Victoria’s high-priced legal team attempted every defense tactic available. They filed motions to dismiss the audio recording, claiming it was edited, and attempted to argue that Victoria was suffering from severe psychological distress that rendered her unfit for trial.
However, Prosecutor Rachel Adams built an ironclad case. She presented financial records proving that Victoria had systematically drained millions from the Vance estate to fund her lavish lifestyle and pay off accomplices.
The media stormed the courthouse daily, dubbing the event "The Wall of Secrets Trial." Public outrage against Victoria grew nationwide, making any hope of a lenient plea deal impossible.
During a pre-trial hearing, Arthur faced Victoria across the courtroom for the first time since her arrest. Dressed in a drab orange prison jumpsuit, her golden hair dull and her pride shattered, Victoria stared at Arthur with cold hatred.
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"You ruined everything," she mouthed across the room.
Arthur didn't respond. He simply raised his hand, showing her the silver ring he had finally taken off—his wedding band from their marriage—and dropped it cleanly into the trash bin beside his desk.
