Chapter 7 - THE TRIAL OF BLOOD AND FIRE
With the evidence of the attack and Marcus’s confession in hand, Caden didn't wait for Moretti to make another move. He launched an immediate, devastating offensive through the legal and financial systems.
The supreme court of the state convened in an emergency confidential session. Sitting on one side of the high-security courtroom was Victor Moretti—an elderly, pristine-looking tycoon flanked by five elite defense attorneys.
On the other side sat Caden Voss, holding Elena’s hand beneath the mahogany table.
"Your Honor," Victor Moretti’s lead council began, standing up pompously. "The defense moves to dismiss all charges of kidnapping and fraud. The children were placed in the lawful custody of Mr. Caden Voss following the tragic passing of his wife, Victoria Moretti. Miss Elena Voss is a former clinic employee with a documented history of mental distress who is seeking financial extortion—"
"Your Honor," Caden’s attorney interrupted smoothly, sliding a heavy digital drive onto the clerk’s desk. "We submit into evidence the complete, unredacted records of Sterling Fertility, recovered from the personal vault of Dr. Arthur Harrison."
Victor Moretti’s eyes narrowed slightly, a subtle twitch appearing at his jaw.
"These records," the attorney continued, "include bank wire transfers totaling four million dollars from Victor Moretti’s personal accounts directly to Dr. Harrison, timed precisely six hours after Miss Elena Voss gave birth. We also submit certified DNA results proving Miss Voss is the 99.99% biological mother, alongside audio recordings from last night's failed armed raid on Mr. Voss's home, ordered directly by the defendant."
The judge reviewed the documents on her screen, her expression hardening with every passing second. She turned her icy gaze directly toward Victor Moretti.
"Mr. Moretti," the judge said, her voice like cracking ice. "You are hereby placed under immediate federal arrest for human trafficking, conspiracy to commit medical fraud, and attempted armed kidnapping."
Federal marshals stepped out from the back of the courtroom, handcuffs ready.
Victor Moretti stood up slowly, his face dark with venom as he glared at Elena. "You think you've won, girl? You’re nothing! A penniless waitress sitting in a court of men who rule this city!"
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Elena stood up. She didn't shrink back. She didn't hide behind Caden. She looked Victor Moretti straight in the eyes, her voice clear, strong, and resounding through the grand chamber.
"I am not a waitress anymore, Mr. Moretti," Elena said calmly. "I am the mother of the Voss heirs. And you are going to spend the rest of your life in a concrete cell."
