Chapter 5: The Arraignment of the Parasites
When the presiding judge denied bail across the board—citing the severity of the violent assault, the multi-million-dollar financial fraud, and the clear flight risk posed by their offshore shell companies—Brooke let out a piercing wail that echoed off the courtroom's high oak ceilings. I sat in the VIP gallery beside Arthur Sterling and Detective Vance, wearing an immaculate ivory pantsuit and dark sunglasses, my posture straight and unwavering. As Ryan was hoisted up by the bailiffs to be dragged back down to the holding cells, his eyes locked onto mine across the aisle. His lips formed a silent, desperate plea for mercy. I didn't flinch, I didn't look away, and I didn't grant him even a fraction of an acknowledgment. I simply watched him disappear through the heavy oak doors, knowing that the parasites who had sucked the life and wealth out of my existence were finally facing the unforgiving machinery of absolute justice.
