Chapter 11 - The Gavel Falls
"Mr. Sterling," Judge Miller began, her voice dangerously quiet. "In my twenty years on the bench, I have rarely seen such a blatant display of cruelty."
Adrian stood up, stammering. "Your Honor, you lack context! She—she lied to me about who she was! She hid her wealth!"
"And that justifies attempting to freeze two ten-day-old infants to death?" The judge slammed her hand on the desk, startling the entire room. "Your financial grievances do not excuse child endangerment."
She turned her attention to her notes, her expression resolute. "Based on the undeniable evidence of physical and emotional endangerment, I am granting Emma Hayes full, sole legal and physical custody of the minors, Leo and Mia. Furthermore, I am issuing a permanent restraining order. You are not to come within five hundred yards of Ms. Hayes or her children."
"You can't do this!" Adrian shouted, losing his carefully crafted composure. "I have rights! I need a settlement!"
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"You have nothing," Judge Miller fired back. "Except my strong recommendation to the District Attorney to pursue criminal charges. We are adjourned."
The gavel banged like a gunshot. It was over.
